The best road cycling routes around Fort Riley

Road cycling around Fort Riley offers a diverse landscape. You'll experience sweeping vistas of native tallgrass prairie, wooded sections, and views of rivers and lakes. Many routes feature rolling hills characteristic of the Flint Hills region, with both well-maintained paved paths and some areas that showcase the unique prairie ecosystem.

There are several road cycling routes available around Fort Riley. This guide features 4 highly-rated routes, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, showcasing the best of the region's landscape.

Yes, Fort Riley offers easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the Morris Hill – Caisson Hill loop from Fort Riley Elementary is an easy 18.1-mile path that traverses parts of the Flint Hills. Another easy option is the Morris Hill – Machine Gun Ridge loop from Fort Riley North, which covers about 9.3 miles.

Yes, the Fort Riley area includes routes with notable elevation changes. The Harvey Hill – Campbell Hill loop from Fort Riley Elementary, for example, is a moderate 20.7-mile trail leading through rolling hills with over 700 feet of elevation gain. The Whitside Ridge Trail, while not explicitly listed as a Komoot route here, is also known for its challenging steep inclines and panoramic views.

The Fort Riley area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the iconic rolling Flint Hills, the Kansas River, and the expansive tallgrass prairie. Routes like the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop from Marshall Army Airfield offer views of the Marshall Army Airfield and cross the Kansas River. The region is also home to diverse wildlife and is situated between Milford Lake and Tuttle Creek Lake, offering scenic backdrops.

Yes, the Fort Riley area is steeped in history. While cycling, you might encounter views of historic architecture, including majestic structures built of native limestone from the 1800s. Notable historical sites in the vicinity include the First Territorial Capitol State Historic Site, the Custer House, the 1st Infantry Division Museum, and the U.S. Cavalry Museum.

Absolutely. Many of the road cycling routes around Fort Riley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop, the Morris Hill – Caisson Hill loop, and the Harvey Hill – Campbell Hill loop.

Yes, Fort Riley offers options for family-friendly cycling. The Riley's Loop Trail, a two-mile paved loop at the Riley Community Center, provides a pleasant ride with gentle slopes and views of historic architecture, making it ideal for families. Additionally, some of the easy Komoot routes are suitable for families looking for a longer ride.

Parking is generally available at various access points for the trails within Fort Riley. For routes starting near Fort Riley Elementary, you can often find parking in designated areas. For routes like the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop, starting from Marshall Army Airfield, parking would be available at the airfield's access points.

While specific cafes directly on the trails are not prominent, the Fort Riley installation and nearby communities offer various amenities. You'll find options for refreshments within the Fort Riley area or in the surrounding towns, which are easily accessible from many of the cycling routes.

The Central Flint Hills Region generally offers good cycling conditions from spring through fall. Spring brings lush green prairies, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Access to Fort Riley is controlled as it is an active military installation. Visitors without a Department of Defense ID card typically need to obtain a pass at the visitor control center. It's advisable to check the official Fort Riley website or contact the installation for the most current access requirements and any specific permits needed for recreational activities like cycling.