The best road cycling routes around New Buffalo
4.6
(6)
168
riders
9
rides
Road cycling around New Buffalo offers routes that traverse coastal areas, inland wildlife preserves, and scenic lakefront paths. The region features a mix of relatively flat terrain near the shore and gentle rolling hills further inland, providing varied cycling experiences. Road cyclists can explore routes that pass by prominent landmarks such as the New Buffalo Lighthouse and the Warren Dunes. The landscape is characterized by a blend of open roads, forested sections, and views of Lake Michigan.
Best road cycling…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
2
riders
81.0km
04:10
260m
260m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
121km
05:10
360m
360m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
20
riders
21.1km
00:53
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
43.6km
01:58
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
57.3km
02:19
180m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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
Popular around New Buffalo
Tips from the Community
Founded in 1876, this historic church at 818 Franklin Street offers welcoming worship services and community programs. They run a Sunday soup kitchen.
0
0
The sunsets from this sandy beach, located next to the iconic lighthouse, are magical. It has a dune area where you can take a boardwalk, climb some steps and enjoy even better views.
1
0
The Kingsbury Fish & Wildlife Area was an ordnance factory during WW2 and the Korean war. It was deeded to the state in 1965 and became a wildlife reserve. Today the 7,400-acres of grassland, crop, bush and marsh is managed for wildlife and leisure. You can cycle on all the open roads and trails.
0
0
The first lightkeeper began work here in 1840. But, by 1859, the government shut the light which was eventually lost to erosion. The light you see today is a replica that has stood as the same spot by Buffalo Beach since the beginning of the 20th century.
2
0
You'll find beautiful dunes and beaches that are not too crowded. Hiking trails lead across the dunes and through the surrounding forest. There are rest rooms and food trucks. Entrance costs $10.
0
0
You're not likely to bump into many other people here. Hike for a mile through the dunes and you come to a beautiful beach – great for watching the sunset. You won't find many amenities here. Nature is allowed to be nature. Admission is also free!
0
0
A great area for hiking, biking and picnicking. Four trails lead through the park and around the Little Calumet River. You'll find forests, meadows, wetlands and open water – lovely!
0
0
Mount Baldy is not technically a mountain, but a 126-feet (38.4 m) shifting sand dune which moves every year. North of the mount, there's a swimming beach which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I find around New Buffalo?
New Buffalo offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences, from relatively flat coastal paths with lake views to routes with gentle rolling hills further inland. You'll find options traversing natural areas, passing by landmarks like the New Buffalo Lighthouse, and exploring wildlife preserves.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in New Buffalo?
Yes, New Buffalo has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the New Buffalo Lighthouse loop from New Buffalo is an easy 13.0-mile (20.9 km) path offering scenic views of the lighthouse and harbor area.
What are the typical distances and durations for road cycling routes in New Buffalo?
Route distances vary significantly, from shorter loops around 13 miles (21 km) to longer, more challenging rides exceeding 75 miles (120 km). Durations can range from just over an hour for easy routes to more than five hours for extensive tours like the Kingsbury Wildlife Area & Michigan coast loop.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Kingsbury Wildlife Area & Michigan coast loop from New Buffalo is a difficult 75.2-mile (121.0 km) trail that takes about 5 hours 10 minutes to complete, leading through wildlife areas and along the Michigan coast.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in New Buffalo?
You can expect a mix of coastal views, open roads, and forested sections. Many routes offer stunning views of Lake Michigan, while others delve into natural areas like the Kingsbury Wildlife Area or pass by prominent features such as the New Buffalo Lighthouse and Warren Dunes.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around New Buffalo are designed as loops. Examples include the popular New Buffalo and Warren Dunes Loop and the shorter New Buffalo Lighthouse loop from New Buffalo.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Road cyclists can enjoy passing by the iconic New Buffalo Lighthouse and the scenic New Buffalo Public Beach. Routes also traverse areas near the Chikaming Township Park and Preserve, offering glimpses of the region's natural beauty.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in New Buffalo?
The road cycling routes in New Buffalo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to inland natural areas, and the scenic lake views.
How many road cycling routes are available in the New Buffalo area?
There are 9 distinct road cycling routes documented around New Buffalo, offering a range of difficulties and lengths to suit different preferences.
What is the best season for road biking in New Buffalo?
While specific data isn't provided, the region's coastal location suggests that late spring, summer, and early fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for road cycling, with milder temperatures and less chance of snow or ice.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by local establishments like cafes or distilleries?
Yes, for a route that combines cycling with a local stop, consider the New Buffalo Lighthouse – Journeyman Distillery loop from New Buffalo. This easy 43.6-mile (70.2 km) route offers a chance to visit the Journeyman Distillery.
Most popular attractions around New Buffalo
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
