The best cycling routes around Spartanburg

Spartanburg offers several touring cycling routes, with six detailed in this guide. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy urban paths to more challenging loops through state parks.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain. Routes often feature urban greenways, paved paths through wooded areas, and scenic stretches along rivers and creeks. For example, the Drayton Mills, Cottonwood, and River Birch Trails wind through wooded areas and along Lawson's Fork Creek. Other routes, like the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop, traverse rolling, wooded terrain within Croft State Park.

Yes, Spartanburg has excellent options for beginners and families. Many routes are designed to be easy, such as the Mary Black Rail Trail loop from Spartanburg, which offers a gentle ride. The broader Daniel Morgan Trail System, including the Mary Black Rail Trail, is known for its accessibility and connects various neighborhoods, making it ideal for leisurely rides.

Yes, you can find circular routes. The Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop is a challenging 34-mile route through Croft State Park. Additionally, the Cowpens National Battlefield offers an easy 4.4-mile touring cycling loop with a historical twist.

Spartanburg's routes often pass by or are near various points of interest. You might encounter Duncan Park Lake, a scenic spot for non-motorized boating, or the River Birch Trail, which offers views of Lawson's Fork Creek. The Croft State Park itself is a major natural attraction with extensive trails. The Glendale Shoals Preserve, located on Lawson's Fork Creek, also features a waterfall cascading over a dam, providing a picturesque stop.

Many of Spartanburg's trails, especially those within the Daniel Morgan Trail System like the Mary Black Rail Trail, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check specific park or trail regulations before you go to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Bike rentals are available at the trailhead of the Mary Black Rail Trail, making it convenient to access this popular route and explore downtown Spartanburg.

The mild climate of Spartanburg, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, makes touring cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summers can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred.

While popular trails like the Mary Black Rail Trail can see significant use, exploring routes within Croft State Park, such as the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop, might offer a more secluded experience, especially on weekdays. The extensive network of trails within Croft State Park provides ample space for a quieter ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained trails, the blend of urban and natural scenery, and the commitment to cycling infrastructure that makes Spartanburg a Bicycle Friendly Community.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop is a difficult 34-mile route through Croft State Park, featuring significant elevation changes. Another option for a longer ride is the Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Drayton, which is a moderate 26 km route.

Spartanburg's commitment to cycling infrastructure includes efforts to connect trails to urban amenities. While specific public transport access points to every trailhead may vary, the Mary Black Rail Trail, a key part of the Daniel Morgan Trail System, connects many neighborhoods to Downtown Spartanburg, making it relatively accessible within the city.