The best road cycling routes around Wallace

The road cycling routes directly around Wallace, as featured in this guide, range from moderate to difficult. For example, the Pacific Placer Reservoir – South Spillway loop from Wallace is considered moderate, while the Roadbike loop from Mine Run 31-032 Dam is a difficult route. However, the broader Wallace area also offers very accessible paved rail-trails like the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which are suitable for all skill levels.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Roadbike loop from Mine Run 31-032 Dam covers over 76 kilometers with significant elevation gain. Beyond the specific routes in this guide, Wallace is also a key point for the ambitious Bitterroot 300, a multi-day, 300-kilometer loop connecting various rail-trails and mountain routes in the region.

Road cycling around Wallace offers a diverse range of scenic beauty. You'll encounter rolling green hills, dense pine and fir forests, expansive meadows, and views of the Bitterroot Mountains. The region is also rich in history, with routes passing through historic mining towns like Gem, Frisco, Yellow Dog, Mace, and Burke, especially along paved State Route 4.

While the specific routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, Wallace is renowned for its family-friendly cycling opportunities. The paved Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which runs directly through Wallace, is a prime example. It's a smooth, mostly flat pathway suitable for all ages and skill levels, offering diverse scenery and wildlife viewing.

Wallace itself is a National Historic Register town, offering a unique backdrop. While cycling, you can explore historic mining towns in Burke Canyon. After your ride, consider visiting local attractions like the Northern Pacific Depot Museum, Wallace Mining Museum, or the quirky Oasis Bordello Museum. Don't forget to find the 'Center of the Universe' manhole cover downtown!

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Pacific Placer Reservoir – South Spillway loop from Wallace and the South Spillway loop from Valley Springs, offering convenient circular journeys.

The best time for road biking in Wallace is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the trails are clear of snow. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially in shoulder seasons.

Wallace is famous for its 'rails-to-trails' network. The most prominent is the 73-mile paved Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which is perfect for road bikes and follows a former railroad track. While primarily a mountain biking trail, the Route of the Hiawatha and Route of the Olympian also utilize old rail beds, offering unique experiences with tunnels and trestles, though their surfaces may vary.

Wallace, being a hub for many trails, offers various parking options. For routes starting directly in town, you can often find street parking or designated parking areas near trailheads. For trails like the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, there are multiple access points with parking along its length. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for the route you plan to ride.

This guide features 5 curated road cycling routes around Wallace, offering a range of distances and difficulty levels for you to explore.

Yes, several moderate routes are perfect for a day trip. The South Spillway loop from Clements, for instance, is over 61 kilometers long and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, providing a substantial yet manageable ride through the scenic landscape.