The best traffic-free bike rides in Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park

There are 15 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the area surrounding Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park. These routes vary in difficulty, offering options for all skill levels.

The routes traverse the rugged beauty of the Cumberland Plateau, featuring varying elevation gains. You can expect a mix of climbs and descents, with some routes offering significant challenges. For example, the Bakewell Mountain & Chickamauga Reservoir loop includes over 1000 meters of elevation gain, while easier options like the Roadbike loop from The Pumpkin Patch have gentler profiles.

Yes, there are 4 easy routes available. The Roadbike loop from The Pumpkin Patch is a good option at approximately 19 km, and the Read Lake loop from Falling Water offers a pleasant 31 km ride with moderate elevation.

While the main Cumberland Trail is for hikers, the surrounding roads offer access to stunning regional landscapes. You might encounter panoramic vistas of the Cumberland Mountain Range. Specific highlights in the broader area include the Dunn Overlook and Leggett Point Overlook, offering expansive views. The Soddy Creek Resource Management Area also provides a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the region.

While direct access to waterfalls might require short detours from cycling routes, the region is known for its dramatic gorges and cascading waterfalls. Highlights like Hogskin Branch Waterfall and Laurel Falls are notable natural features in the broader area that you might consider exploring in conjunction with your ride.

The Cumberland Plateau offers beautiful cycling conditions during spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the foliage is vibrant. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons can still provide enjoyable rides. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bakewell Mountain loop from Soddy Municipal Park and the Connor Toll House loop from The Pumpkin Patch.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, scenic views, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that characterize the Cumberland Plateau.

No, the main Cumberland Trail is a linear hiking trail designed for foot traffic only. Road cycling opportunities are found on the paved roads and scenic byways that traverse the wider Cumberland Plateau area, often adjacent to or connecting to access points of the state park.

The region has historical significance, particularly areas connected to the Cumberland Trail, such as the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. While the specific no-traffic routes focus on natural beauty, the broader area offers a blend of natural and historical significance, like the Wilderness Road Trail which traces Daniel Boone's historic path.

The routes vary significantly in length to accommodate different preferences. You can find shorter rides, such as the Roadbike loop from The Pumpkin Patch at approximately 19 km, up to longer, more challenging routes like the Bakewell Mountain & Chickamauga Reservoir loop, which is over 100 km.

Many routes start from established parking areas or public parks. For example, the Bakewell Mountain loop begins from Soddy Municipal Park, which typically offers parking facilities. Always check the specific route details for recommended starting points and parking information.