The best road cycling routes around Lincoln

Lincoln offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 18 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from moderate rides to more challenging excursions.

The terrain around Lincoln is generally flat to gently rolling, with some routes offering moderate elevation gains. The city boasts nearly 150 miles of crushed limestone and paved pathways. Most routes are rated as moderate, with a few more difficult options available for experienced cyclists. For example, the Canal loop features over 760 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, Lincoln's extensive urban trail system, including popular paved paths like the Billy Wolff Trail and Helen Boosalis Trail, provides excellent options for family-friendly road cycling. These trails are generally flat and well-maintained, connecting neighborhoods and natural spaces, making them suitable for riders of all ages.

Many of Lincoln's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Camp Far West Lake loop and the Slice Brewing Company loop from Lake McLure, which offer scenic circular rides through diverse landscapes.

Road cycling around Lincoln offers diverse natural landscapes, from urban parks and interconnected trails to expansive prairies and riverine environments. You can explore areas like Wilderness Park, Pioneers Park Nature Center with its tallgrass prairie, and the scenic Platte River State Park. The city's trail network extends into the countryside, providing views of fields and forests.

Yes, several attractions are accessible near road cycling routes. You might encounter natural features like Hidden Falls or enjoy the tranquility of Coyote Pond Park. Other points of interest include the Miner's Ravine Trail and the Canyon View Bridge. For a unique experience, consider visiting the meticulously manicured Sunken Gardens.

Lincoln is a bike-friendly city with good access to its trail network. Many trails, such as the Billy Wolff Trail and Rock Island Trail, have accessible entry points, often with nearby parking. For those without their own bike, BikeLNK, Lincoln's bike and e-bike share program, provides a convenient way to access and explore the routes.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Lincoln, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or evenings are often ideal. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter cycling may be limited by snow and ice.

Many of Lincoln's urban trails connect directly to neighborhoods and shopping areas, providing easy access to cafes and eateries. For routes extending into rural landscapes, like the Slice Brewing Company loop from Lincoln, you might find establishments at the start or end points, or in nearby towns.

The road cycling routes in Lincoln are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive and well-maintained trail system, the diverse natural landscapes, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.

While much of Lincoln's terrain is gently rolling, some routes do offer more significant elevation gains for those seeking a challenge. The Canal loop, for instance, includes over 760 meters of ascent, providing a more demanding experience compared to flatter urban paths.

Many of Lincoln's multi-use trails, including paved and crushed limestone paths, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations or park rules before heading out, especially in nature centers or protected areas like Pioneers Park Nature Center or Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center.