The best cycling routes in Harrison County

Harrison County offers a selection of 11 touring cycling routes, primarily featuring coastal paths, boardwalks, and bridge crossings. These routes are well-suited for exploring the region's unique blend of urban and natural coastal scenery.

Yes, Harrison County is very beginner-friendly, with 7 out of 11 routes classified as easy. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Observation deck loop from Wasabi, which is 16.5 miles (26.5 km) long and offers pleasant views of local waterways.

The longest touring cycling route available is the Biloxi Boardwalk – Observation deck loop from Biloxi, which spans 27.5 miles (44.2 km). This moderate route is estimated to take around 2 hours 30 minutes to complete and offers extensive coastal views.

Many of the routes in Harrison County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the Biloxi Bay Bridge and Boardwalk Loop is a popular 25.1-mile (40.5 km) circular route that showcases coastal scenery and bridge crossings.

Touring cycling in Harrison County is defined by its coastal environment. You can expect routes along the Gulf Coast, featuring scenic boardwalks, bridges over waterways, and a mix of urban and natural coastal landscapes. The Beach Boulevard pier – Lakeshore Beach loop from Bay Saint Louis offers beautiful views of the coastline and piers.

Along your rides, you can explore various points of interest. The Biloxi Bay Bridge is a prominent feature on several routes, offering expansive views. You can also cycle along the Biloxi Boardwalk, which provides a pleasant ride with Gulf views. For a natural experience, the White-Sand Beaches on the Gulf Coast are easily accessible.

Given the generally flat terrain and numerous easy routes, many touring cycling paths in Harrison County are suitable for families. The Observation deck loop from Ocean Springs is an easy 7.6-mile (12.3 km) route, perfect for a shorter family outing.

The mild climate of Harrison County makes touring cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures, with less humidity than summer. Winter can also be pleasant, though cooler. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended.

Many routes in Harrison County pass through or near urban areas and coastal towns, making it easy to find cafes and restaurants. For example, the Fort Maurepas Park Canopy loop from Wasabi starts near amenities in Ocean Springs, providing opportunities for refreshments before or after your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible coastal paths, the scenic views from the bridges and boardwalks, and the generally flat terrain that makes for enjoyable, less strenuous rides.

While many routes offer popular coastal experiences, exploring some of the slightly shorter, easy loops can provide a more tranquil experience. The Biloxi Boardwalk – Astronaut der Apollo 13 aus Biloxi loop from Edgewater Mall is an easy 11.9-mile (19.1 km) route that offers a pleasant ride away from the busiest sections, while still providing coastal charm.

Public transportation options in Harrison County, such as the Coast Transit Authority (CTA), serve various areas. While direct access to specific trailheads might vary, many routes are accessible from towns like Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs, which are served by public buses. It's advisable to check CTA schedules and bike-carrying policies for specific routes.