The best road cycling routes around University Heights
4.2
(11)
488
riders
71
rides
Road cycling routes around University Heights are characterized by their proximity to the Iowa River and Clear Creek, offering varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. The landscape primarily features river valleys and open areas, with gentle elevation changes. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse both urban fringes and more natural settings, often following waterways.
Best road cycling routes around University Heights
- The most popular road cycling route is Tom Harkin Trailhead – Clear Creek Trail loop from Iowa City…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
3.0
(1)
46
riders
35.4km
01:51
190m
190m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
26
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
25
riders
52.9km
02:50
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
18
riders
26.6km
01:23
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
35
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Clear Creek Trail is a paved, multiuse path that travels along a wonderful shaded stretch along its namesake creek. It's a great ride at any time of year, but during the autumn color season it really hits its zenith.
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In addition to serving as a trailhead for a number of trails, you'll also find shelter, bathroom and bike repair station here. It's a great place to start and/or end your ride.
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Totaling just over 18 miles, the Iowa River Corridor Trail is an incredible way to explore or commute between Iowa City and North Liberty. There are multiple intersections with other trails, so you can expand your exploration as you see fit.
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Ely is a historic town in the Cedar Rapids metropolitan area. Settled in 1872, it was an important stop along the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railway. There are still several historic structures in the city, including the Ely School House and Dows Street Historic District.
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McCollister Boulevard passes over the Iowa River, a tributary of the Mississippi River. There are benches on the southern side of the bridge where you can sit and watch the world go by.
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Terry Trueblood Recreation Area is a beautiful green space surrounding a lake. There is a paved path that runs along the perimeter of the lake. There is no swimming allowed in the lake.
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McCollister Boulevard passes over the Iowa River, a tributary of the Mississippi River. There are benches on the southern side of the bridge where you can sit and watch the world go by.
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This is a paved greenway used by cyclists, walkers and runners that meanders alongside the scenic Clear Creek. There is plenty of shade from the sunshine and a variety of terrain to pass through from flat to hilly with historical markers along the way too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around University Heights?
There are over 70 road cycling routes around University Heights, offering a variety of options for cyclists of different skill levels.
What kind of difficulty can I expect on road cycling routes in University Heights?
The routes around University Heights primarily offer easy and moderate difficulty levels. You'll find 32 easy routes and 39 moderate routes, making it accessible for various skill levels.
What is the typical landscape like for road cycling around University Heights?
Road cycling routes around University Heights are characterized by their proximity to the Iowa River and Clear Creek, offering varied terrain. The landscape primarily features river valleys and open areas, with gentle elevation changes. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse both urban fringes and more natural settings, often following waterways.
Are there any scenic routes that follow the Iowa River?
Yes, many routes offer views of the Iowa River. For example, the Iowa River Kayaking loop from Carver-Hawkeye Arena is a popular moderate route featuring views of the Iowa River and surrounding areas. Another option is the Mehaffey Bridge – Iowa River Corridor Trail loop from Iowa City, which leads through the Iowa River Corridor.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in University Heights?
The road cycling routes in University Heights are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 11 reviews. Cyclists often praise the riverine paths and open landscapes, as well as the connections to local trail networks like the Clear Creek Trail and Iowa River Corridor Trail.
Are there any easy, family-friendly road cycling routes?
Yes, there are 32 easy routes available. An excellent option for an easy ride is the Tom Harkin Trailhead – Clear Creek Trail loop from Iowa City, which follows the Clear Creek Trail for a smooth ride. Another easy route is the Bridge over Iowa River – Iowa River Kayaking loop from Iowa City.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes around University Heights are designed as loops. Examples include the Tom Harkin Trailhead – Clear Creek Trail loop from Iowa City, the Iowa River Kayaking loop from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, and the Coralville Dam loop from University Heights.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Along the routes, you can explore natural features like the Clear Creek Trail and the Iowa River Corridor Trail. You might also pass by the Coralville Dam and the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, which features a lake.
Are there any longer road cycling routes for more experienced riders?
For longer rides, consider moderate routes like the Mehaffey Bridge – Iowa River Corridor Trail loop from Iowa City, which spans 34.9 miles (56.3 km) and takes nearly 3 hours to complete. This route offers a good challenge with moderate elevation changes.
What kind of elevation changes can I expect on these routes?
The routes around University Heights generally feature gentle elevation changes, consistent with river valleys and open areas. While some routes like the Mehaffey Bridge – Iowa River Corridor Trail loop from Iowa City can have around 450 meters of ascent, many easy routes have much less, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
Which routes connect to the Clear Creek Trail?
The Tom Harkin Trailhead – Clear Creek Trail loop from Iowa City is a prime example, directly following the Clear Creek Trail for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
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