The best road cycling routes in Wake County

This 24.9-mile (40.1 km) easy road cycling loop, which takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete with 568 feet (173 metres) of elevation gain, offers a unique blend of nature and city. You'll pedal through lush wooded areas and tranquil wetlands, with impressive boardwalks like those over "The Swamp" on the Walnut Creek Greenway providing excellent birdwatching opportunities for egrets and herons. The route follows Crabtree Creek, revealing large rock outcroppings, and even offers scenic views of Lake Johnson, making it feel far removed from Raleigh's urban bustle.

When planning your ride, be mindful that parts of the Crabtree Creek Greenway are susceptible to flooding, so check conditions after heavy rains. While generally easy, some older sections of the Walnut Creek Trail and eastern Crabtree Creek Trail can be bumpy due to roots, which might make a hybrid bike a more comfortable choice. For safety, especially on parts of the Walnut Creek Trail near downtown, consider riding during daylight hours and with companions.

This loop is a vital part of Raleigh's Capital Area Greenway system, providing an urban oasis with extensive connectivity to other trails like the Neuse River Trail. Cyclists often spot diverse wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, and herons, among the loblolly pine stands. It's an ideal route for those looking for best road cycling trails Raleigh has to offer, combining natural features with convenient city access.

This 44.7-mile road cycling loop from Cary to Anderson Point Park via Umstead State Park offers varied terrain and scenic greenways.

Cycle the moderate 62.7-mile Apex to Performance Fibers Forest loop in Wake County, featuring rolling terrain and natural scenery.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure along the Neuse River Trail, a route that stretches for 59.7 miles (96.0 km). You will gain 1385 feet (422 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 59 minutes. The trail offers a diverse landscape, guiding you through lush wooded areas, open farmlands, and wetlands, all while cycling alongside the tranquil Neuse River. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, especially on the well-maintained boardwalks, and enjoy the unique experience of crossing two picturesque suspension bridges.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Neuse River Trail is accessible year-round. You can find convenient parking and access points at various locations, including Horseshoe Farm Road, Buffaloe Road Athletic Park, and Anderson Point Park. Restrooms and drinking water facilities are also available at key points along the route, making it easy to plan your stops and ensure a comfortable journey.

This trail stands out for its close connection to the Neuse River, providing a continuous scenic backdrop for your ride. The presence of extensive boardwalk sections and the two distinctive suspension bridges add a unique character to the route, offering both visual interest and a touch of adventure. It's a fantastic option if you are looking for a longer ride that combines natural beauty with well-maintained infrastructure.

Cycle the Jordan Lake and New Hope Game Lands Overlook loop, a moderate 38.3-mile road ride in Wake County with scenic lake views.

The Neuse River and Crabtree Creek Trail Loop offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding through Raleigh's natural beauty. You'll glide along predominantly paved surfaces, passing through peaceful wooded forests, open farmland, and over impressive winding boardwalks that span wetland environments. Keep an eye out for picturesque views of both the Neuse River and Crabtree Creek, with stands of loblolly pine, elm, and river birch adding to the scenic charm.

This easy 28.3-mile (45.6 km) route, with its 772 feet (235 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hours and 53 minutes, making it a perfect option for a morning or afternoon ride. Access is convenient with plentiful parking along both greenways, and you'll find restrooms and drinking water at key points. Just be mindful that some sections of the Crabtree Creek Trail, especially in flood plains, can be prone to washouts.

This loop is a standout because it combines two extensive greenway systems, including the Neuse River Trail, which is North Carolina's longest paved trail and part of the East Coast Greenway and Mountains-to-Sea Trail. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and escape city traffic, all within Raleigh's larger Capital Area Greenway system.

The Falls Lake Causeway via Lake Lynn loop offers a diverse road cycling experience, blending open water views with tranquil forest paths. You'll traverse well-paved roads, dedicated cycleways, and even wooden boardwalks around Lake Lynn, where you can spot various water birds like ospreys and Canada geese. The highlight is undoubtedly cycling across the Falls Lake Causeway, providing sweeping vistas of the large reservoir and its surrounding woodlands.

This route is a moderate 44.3-mile (71.2 km) ride with 1533 feet (467 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 3 minutes for a fit rider. While the Lake Lynn section is quite easy, the full loop demands good fitness due to its length and varied terrain. Plan for a daytime ride to fully enjoy the scenery and ensure you have ample time to complete the journey comfortably.

Falls Lake is not just a scenic backdrop; it's a vital resource for Raleigh, serving as a drinking water supply and flood control. This loop provides an excellent opportunity to explore a significant recreational hub in Wake County, offering a substantial road cycling challenge that stands out among other Raleigh cycling routes for its blend of natural beauty and accessible, well-maintained paths.

This moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) road cycling loop from Wake Forest offers scenic views of Falls Lake and rural landscapes, crossing Purnel

This moderate 36.1-mile road cycling loop from Cary via Lake Wheeler and Hilltop Needmore Town Park offers scenic views and paved surfaces.