The best road cycling routes around St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park offers a diverse selection of over 40 road cycling routes. These include 18 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride and 23 moderate routes for those seeking a greater challenge. There are no difficult routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of cyclists.

The road cycling routes in St. Louis Park are primarily characterized by an extensive network of paved regional trails. The terrain is generally flat, following former railroad lines, which provides smooth surfaces. You'll encounter a mix of urban landscapes, serene woodlands, and picturesque views around numerous lakes, with some routes also traversing wetlands.

Yes, St. Louis Park is well-suited for family-friendly road cycling, with 18 easy routes available. Many of these routes utilize the paved regional trail system, offering safe and enjoyable rides away from heavy traffic. The generally flat terrain is ideal for cyclists of all ages.

Many routes offer scenic views of lakes and natural areas. You can cycle around prominent lakes like Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Nokomis. The Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway offers extensive urban and natural vistas, while the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail provides a blend of urban skyline views and serene woodland scenery.

Absolutely. St. Louis Park is a hub within the larger Three Rivers Park District regional trail system. The Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail and North Cedar Lake Regional Trail connect to numerous miles of additional routes in the broader Minneapolis metropolitan area. The Luce Line Regional Trail, while passing nearby, also connects to Minneapolis' Grand Rounds Scenic Byway trail network.

Yes, there are several excellent loop routes. A popular choice is the Bde Maka Ska – Cedar Lake loop from Louisiana Ave & 18th St, which is an easy 17.8-mile ride. Another option is the Bde Maka Ska – Lake Nokomis Pathway loop from Beltline Boulevard, an easy 25-mile route.

The road cycling routes in St. Louis Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.86 stars from over 29 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the diverse scenery ranging from urban to natural, and the excellent connectivity to other regional trails.

Yes, parking is generally available at various access points along the regional trail system in and around St. Louis Park. Specific parking information can often be found on the Three Rivers Park District website or by checking individual trailhead details on komoot.

For those seeking a longer and more moderate ride, the Grand Rounds and Mississippi River Trail Loop is an excellent option. This 54.3-mile route combines two major regional trails, offering extensive urban and river views with a moderate difficulty grade.

The best time for road cycling in St. Louis Park is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the trails are clear. While some trails may be maintained in winter, conditions can vary, and ice or snow may be present. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

The Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail is a 4.5-mile paved trail following former railroad lines. It connects downtown Minneapolis to other popular cycling trails. It's important to note that portions of this trail may experience temporary closures due to construction, with detours often utilizing the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail and local bike routes. Always check for current trail conditions before planning your ride.

Yes, Theodore Wirth Regional Park, located partly in Golden Valley adjacent to St. Louis Park, is accessible via the broader trail network. The Luce Line Regional Trail, which passes through nearby Golden Valley, connects to the park, offering access to its extensive cycling and hiking trails, including the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary.