The best cycling routes around Holyoke
4.8
(97)
526
riders
83
rides
Touring cycling around Holyoke, Massachusetts, offers a diverse array of routes across varied landscapes. The region is characterized by the expansive Mount Holyoke Range, featuring a ridgeline with basaltic formations and hills under 200m. The Connecticut River flows alongside Holyoke, providing scenic waterfront paths. A network of dedicated rail trails, including the Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway and the Norwottuck Rail Trail, offers paved and traffic-free options.
Best touring cycling routes around Holyoke
- The most popular touring cycling route is Connecticut…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.0
(2)
1
riders
8.28km
00:28
10m
10m
Cycle the easy 5.1-mile Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway North, offering river views, city skylines, and a paved path for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
55
riders
24.2km
01:25
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(16)
46
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
34
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Nice paved rail trail with beautiful scenery. The pavement is pretty new but there are a few cracks so take it easy if you've got really narrow tires.
0
0
great paved foot/cycle path.
0
0
With forests, brooks, swamps, meadows, and wetlands, the Topping Farm Conservation Area really is a haven for the plants and animals that call the property their home. A few different paved roads wind around the area and offer views of the nature preserve from the roadside.
0
0
This is a great section of the Norwottuck Rail Trail. It winds through beautiful pine forests and wetlands. The trail is completely off the road, so you should have a comfortable traffic-free ride.
1
0
This section of the rail trail, from the top of the hill in Amherst to the end of the trail in Belchertown, includes this crossing of the fort river and goes through a lot of beautiful wetlands
0
0
This bridge along the Norwottuck Rail Trail crosses the Fort River and offers great views of the waterway.
0
0
Lower Millpond makes a nice stopover if you're cycling the New Haven & Northampton Canal Greenway. The actual mill itself is on the other side of the paved greenway, and has been transformed into a commercial development with art galleries, restaurants, shops and a brewery.
0
0
The trail system in this area provides a captivating ride, with waterfalls and various bodies of water along the way. Numerous viewpoints offer opportunities to take a break and appreciate the stunning scenery.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Holyoke?
There are over 85 touring cycling routes available around Holyoke, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels.
What are the different difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in Holyoke?
Holyoke offers a diverse range of routes. You'll find approximately 34 easy routes, 41 moderate routes, and 10 more challenging options, catering to all experience levels.
What do other cyclists say about touring in Holyoke?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic rail trails, river views, and the varied terrain.
Are there paved rail trails suitable for touring cyclists in Holyoke?
Yes, Holyoke and the surrounding area are known for excellent rail trails. The Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway North is an easy, paved path offering scenic river views. Another popular option is the Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge – Bridge over the Fort River loop from Northampton, which winds through pine forests and wetlands.
Can I find routes with views of the Connecticut River?
Absolutely. The Connecticut River flows alongside Holyoke, providing beautiful waterfront paths. The Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway North is a prime example, offering direct views along the river. Another route, View of the Connecticut River – Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge loop from Northampton, also provides scenic river vistas.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Holyoke?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge – Bridge over the Fort River loop from Northampton and the Main Street – Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge loop from Northampton are popular circular options that allow you to start and end in the same location.
What natural features can I expect to see along the touring cycling routes?
You'll encounter diverse natural landscapes, including the expansive Mount Holyoke Range with its basaltic formations, the scenic Connecticut River, and wetlands along rail trails. Routes like the Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge – Bridge over the Fort River loop from Northampton take you through pine forests and over the Fort River.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Holyoke?
Yes, the paved rail trails in the area are generally suitable for all skill levels, making them great for families. The Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway North is an easy, traffic-free option perfect for a family outing.
What landmarks or attractions can I explore near the cycling routes?
Along your rides, you can discover several interesting spots. The Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge is a notable landmark. You might also pass by natural areas like the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary or the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area. For a touch of greenery, consider visiting The Botanic Garden of Smith College.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, some routes offer views of local water bodies. The Promenade between the ponds – Ashley Reservoir loop from Holyoke Shopping Center is a moderate route that takes you past the scenic Ashley Reservoir.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Holyoke?
The region is particularly vibrant during the fall foliage season, offering spectacular panoramic views, especially from the Mount Holyoke Range. Spring and summer also provide pleasant conditions for cycling, with lush greenery and comfortable temperatures.
What is the average length of touring cycling routes in Holyoke?
Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter, easy rides like the Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway North at 5.1 miles (8.3 km), or longer, moderate options such as the Norwottuck Rail Trail Bridge – Bridge over the Fort River loop from Northampton, which spans nearly 30 miles (48.2 km).
Most popular attractions around Holyoke
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
