The best traffic-free bike rides around New Orleans
4.5
(14)
791
riders
16
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around New Orleans are characterized by the city's notably flat terrain, making it accessible for cyclists of all levels. The region features extensive waterfront paths along Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, offering long, car-free stretches. Urban parks like City Park and Audubon Park provide expansive networks of paved paths, often shaded by ancient live oak trees. The landscape is primarily defined by these waterways, green spaces, and levee systems, with minimal elevation changes.
Best…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
8
riders
34.3km
01:19
10m
10m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
75
riders
63.4km
02:53
50m
50m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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64
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
63
riders
33.2km
01:39
20m
20m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
21
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
New Orleans City Park is the largest outdoor attraction in New Orleans at 1,300 acres, surpassing Central Park in size. It is also one of the oldest parks in the country, and features many different attractions, including the New Orleans Botanical Garden, Storyland playground, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, alongside themed gardens, biking and walking paths, live concerts, and the world’s largest grove of mature live oak trees. The park offers facilities for various events, recreational rentals like surreys and swan boats, and private gondola rides. Be aware if riding your bike: golf carts are allowed on designated roads but not on bike paths or grassy areas, and they must follow posted speed limits.
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The Greenway is one of the best ways to get from Mid-City to Downtown since it is a fully protected route and not in the street. There are a couple of street crossings with crosswalks.
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Bayou Metairie was created when the Mississippi River shifted 2,600 years ago, and now it's the centerpiece of a city park. There are a number of bridges, benches, and lookouts that are meant for viewing the bayou. The trails in and around the wetlands are great for jogging.
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Also known as Milneburg Lighthouse, the name of the resort town that was erected here in the early 19th century. The lighthouse was built as part of a series of federal lighthouses with the purpose of navigational aid to the new ports on the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain.
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This 20+ mile paved path along the southern shores of Lake Pontchartrain is perfect for a burn ride, or a rather meditative one, due to it being mostly straight for its entire length. The Lake steals the show, but there are a few other interesting stops along the way, such as boardwalks, parks, outfall canals, mansions, and the Causeway.
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Traversed by a few paved roads, the City Park can be partially visited by bike and with plenty of places to park, it can also be a good point to start a route. The park is an exuberant respite of nature in the middle of the city and its ancient oak trees and moss canopies make it evident that this is one of the oldest urban parks in the country.
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First it used to be the Carondelet Canal, then a railway corridor, it was transformed in 2015 to a 2.6 miles long park and bicycle and pedestrian pathway. It now connects the French Quarter and Armstrong Park to the Bayou St. John and City Park.
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Literally the big lake within City Park. It is surrounded by art sculptures and a natural habitat for many birds. There is a small bike path on a pier going a bit over the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in New Orleans?
Komoot features 14 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around New Orleans. These routes are designed to offer a safe and enjoyable experience away from vehicular traffic, making them ideal for all skill levels.
What is the general terrain and difficulty of these no-traffic routes?
New Orleans is known for its flat terrain, and the no-traffic road cycling routes reflect this, making them generally easy to moderate. Out of the 14 routes, 12 are rated as easy, and 2 are moderate. This makes the area very accessible for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to those seeking longer, relaxed rides.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options in New Orleans?
Absolutely. Many of New Orleans' car-free paths are perfect for families. For example, the routes through Big Lake City Park and Audubon Park offer safe, paved paths with plenty of space and scenic views, ideal for cyclists of all ages. Audubon Park, in particular, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful oak trees.
What kind of landmarks or natural features can I expect to see along these routes?
New Orleans' no-traffic routes offer a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. You can cycle past historic sites, lush parks, and scenic waterfronts. Highlights include the expansive City Park with its ancient live oaks and sculpture garden, the picturesque Audubon Park, and the scenic Lakeshore Drive along Lake Pontchartrain. You might also encounter attractions like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 or the French Quarter Historic Architecture if your route passes nearby.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes offer convenient circular options. For instance, the New Orleans City Park – Lafitte Greenway loop provides a comprehensive tour, and the Port Pontchartrain Lighthouse – Big Lake City Park loop is another excellent choice for a round trip.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road biking in New Orleans?
The cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November to April) are generally considered the best time for road biking in New Orleans. The weather is more pleasant, with less humidity and milder temperatures, making for a more comfortable ride. Summers can be very hot and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable if cycling during those months.
Are there options for longer no-traffic road bike rides?
Yes, if you're looking for a longer ride, the New Orleans City Park – Lafitte Greenway loop covers over 63 kilometers. Additionally, the Mississippi River Trail (Levee Bike Path) offers extensive paved sections, providing long, traffic-free stretches for endurance cycling, though specific komoot routes may vary in length.
Can I find cafes or amenities along these no-traffic routes?
Many routes pass through or near areas with amenities. For example, City Park is home to the Morning Call Coffee Stand, a popular spot for a break. Routes along Lakeshore Drive are close to the Lakeview area, which offers various establishments. The Lafitte Greenway also connects to areas with breweries and cafes, making it easy to refuel.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic road cycling in New Orleans?
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in New Orleans, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the city's commitment to creating bike-friendly, traffic-free paths, the beautiful scenery of the parks and waterfronts, and the flat terrain that makes for enjoyable and accessible rides for all skill levels.
Are there any shorter, easy no-traffic road bike routes for beginners?
Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed to be easy and relatively short, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Roadbike loop from West End is an excellent example, offering an easy ride of just over 33 kilometers with minimal elevation gain.
Is public transport available to access these no-traffic road cycling routes?
New Orleans has a public transport system, including streetcars and buses, which can help you get closer to many of the city's parks and trailheads. For example, the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line runs near Audubon Park, and various bus routes serve City Park and other areas, making it possible to combine cycling with public transit.
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