The best cycling routes in South Carolina

The Swamp Rabbit Trail to Legacy Park offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding along the Reedy River through Greenville's urban heart and verdant parks before reaching the serene 20-acre Legacy Park. You'll enjoy varied scenery, from cityscapes to forested sections, culminating in the park's tranquil man-made pond, fountain, and beautifully landscaped gardens. This easy 12.1-mile (19.5 km) route, with just 359 feet (109 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained with multiple access points, water stops, and restrooms. It's a multi-use path connecting Greenville with Travelers Rest, offering plenty of opportunities to stop at local shops and restaurants along the way. The route is suitable for cyclists of all ages and fitness levels, making it a fantastic family-friendly bike ride, and portions are even lit for evening rides.

The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a highly popular greenway, known for its excellent connectivity and recreational opportunities. The recent Legacy Park Connector seamlessly links the main trail to Legacy Park, enhancing accessibility to its playgrounds, picnic areas, and open fields. This route is a prime example of the best long distance cycling trails Greenville SC has to offer, blending natural beauty with urban convenience.

The Doodle Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through a diverse landscape of forested areas, open pastures, and farmlands. You'll enjoy the smooth asphalt surface as you pass by streams and over picturesque wooden bridges, with the occasional glimpse of Glassy Mountain in the distance. It's a journey that feels both secluded and connected to the local charm of South Carolina.

Planning your ride is easy, with well-equipped trailheads at both Easley and Pickens offering amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is open from dawn to dusk, providing flexibility for when you want to start your adventure. Parking is convenient at these main access points, making it simple to begin your moderate 17.1-mile (27.5 km) ride, which typically takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes to complete.

This trail is steeped in history, following the path of a railway nicknamed "Doodle" because the train ran backward between towns. With 1219 feet (372 metres) of elevation gain spread across gentle slopes, it provides a good workout without being overly challenging. It's a family-friendly route, even featuring "Kids in Parks TRACK Trails" for younger explorers, making it a standout option for a day out.

Cycle the Spanish Moss Trail, an easy 20.1 miles (32.3 km) touring cycling route through South Carolina's Lowcountry. You will glide along a flat, paved rail-trail, shaded by ancient live oaks draped with iconic Spanish moss. The route offers expansive views of salt marshes and waterways, where you might spot coastal wildlife like roseate spoonbills. With only 193 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, this ride takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it a relaxing journey for all skill levels. You can also look for the historic 1901 Spanish Moss Trail Train Depot along the way.

Planning your ride on the Spanish Moss Trail is straightforward, with multiple parking areas available at various trailheads. You will find benches for resting and pet waste stations conveniently placed along the route. Some access points even provide bike repair stations and restrooms for your comfort. Remember that only Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal-assist without a throttle, are permitted on the trail to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

This paved rail-trail is a highlight of the region, transforming an old railway line into a vibrant corridor for outdoor activity. It offers a unique perspective on the Lowcountry's natural beauty, from its distinctive flora to its diverse coastal wildlife. The trail's flat profile and well-maintained surface make it an ideal choice for families and casual riders seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

The Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop offers a compelling blend of urban greenway and challenging mountain roads, making it one of the best cycling routes near Greenville SC. You'll begin on the smooth, paved Swamp Rabbit Trail, winding through vibrant downtown Greenville, past landmarks like Falls Park on the Reedy, before transitioning to the quiet, forested climbs of Paris Mountain. This 19.5-mile (31.4 km) touring cycling route, rated moderate, features 1300 feet (396 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with the Swamp Rabbit Trail offering numerous access points, ample parking, and convenient amenities like restrooms and bike fix stations. While the Swamp Rabbit Trail elevation profile is mostly flat, the Paris Mountain section includes significant ascents with grades up to 10%, so be prepared for a workout. It's a great option for cyclists looking for a varied experience, from leisurely city riding to more strenuous mountain climbs.

What makes this Paris Mountain Swamp Rabbit Trail loop cycling route truly stand out is its unique transition from bustling city life to tranquil natural beauty. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is nationally recognized for its accessibility and community integration, while Paris Mountain State Park cycling terrain offers a serene escape with opportunities for wildlife spotting. This route provides a comprehensive cycling experience, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the Greenville area.

The Seabrook and Kiawah Islands loop offers an exceptional touring cycling experience, winding through breathtaking Lowcountry landscapes. You'll pedal past lush maritime forests, tranquil lagoons, and expansive salt marshes, often with consistent oceanfront views. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including herons, egrets, and even dolphins, especially near the Marsh View Tower or Blue Heron Pond Observation Tower. The route combines paved paths with unique opportunities to ride on hard-packed sand beaches, particularly on Kiawah's 10-mile stretch.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the islands connected via Freshfields Village, a convenient hub for shops and dining. While much of the terrain is flat, making it accessible for many, the full 31.9-mile (51.4 km) loop is considered moderate, taking about 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete with 101 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain. Be aware that some segments, especially on Seabrook Island, can be unpaved and sandy, potentially requiring you to dismount and push your bike.

What truly sets this route apart is the extensive network of bike paths that allow you to explore almost the entire area without a car, combined with the unique opportunity for beach riding. Seabrook Island is one of the few places on the East Coast where both bikes and horses are permitted on the beach, adding to its distinct charm. The islands prioritize cyclist safety with low-speed limits for vehicles and bike-friendly infrastructure, ensuring a pleasant ride.

Embark on the Greenville Watershed loop for a challenging touring bicycle ride that takes you deep into lush forested areas. You will cycle 38.7 miles (62.3 km) and conquer a significant 3024 feet (922 metres) of elevation gain, typically completing the route in about 4 hours and 6 minutes. As you pedal, you'll often find yourself under a canopy of trees, enjoying peaceful views of the pristine North Saluda Reservoir and the calming sound of running water.

When planning your visit, be aware that some parts of the route, especially on the Hendersonville side, have poor road conditions with cracks and rough spots. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider riding during the week, as weekends can be quite busy with other cyclists. Parking is generally available near the various starting points for the Greenville Watershed bike routes.

This difficult route offers a serene ambiance, particularly on weekdays, making it an ideal choice if you are seeking a substantial workout on two wheels away from city noise. The quiet setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the watershed. It is a popular local option for those who appreciate a long, demanding ride through scenic landscapes.

The Greenway Trail offers an easy touring bicycle ride, covering 5.3 miles (8.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 82 feet (25 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you cycle, you'll enjoy picturesque views along the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers, with the paved path winding through shaded areas lined with dogwood and oak trees. Keep an eye out for the historic Columbia Canal and scenic overlooks, which are great spots for birdwatching.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Greenway Trail consists of several unconnected segments, so you might need to navigate city streets to link them up. Access points are often conveniently located near local amenities. Along the route, you'll find lighted paths, emergency call boxes, restrooms, and water fountains. Weekends and areas near parking can get busy, so consider an early start for a quieter experience.

This route is a highlight of the Three Rivers Greenway, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty where three rivers converge. The Saluda River Greenway section is particularly beautiful, providing a serene backdrop for your ride. It's a great way to experience the local environment and history while enjoying a straightforward and accessible cycling path.

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, a moderate 38.4-mile (61.8 km) route that offers a diverse cycling experience. You will pedal through vibrant urban landscapes, past the iconic Liberty Bridge and Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown Greenville, before transitioning into more serene, wooded sections. The journey involves a manageable 1239 feet (378 metres) of elevation gain, making it an enjoyable ride for many skill levels, typically completed in about 3 hours and 46 minutes.

When planning your visit, you will find the trail is well-maintained and generally flat, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of cyclists. Numerous amenities are available along the way, including benches for rest and gazebos for shade. You can also stop at various trailside restaurants, cafes, and shops, particularly in towns like Travelers Rest and downtown Greenville. Parking is conveniently located at multiple access points along the route, and bike rentals are offered in several locations if you need them.

This multi-use greenway provides a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and urban charm. As you cycle, you will follow the scenic Reedy River and pass through the picturesque Furman University campus, with views of its beautiful lake and clock tower. The trail seamlessly connects different communities, offering a continuous and engaging path that highlights both the historical and modern aspects of the area.

The Hulk is an easy 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route, typically completed in about 49 minutes, with a gentle elevation gain of 111 feet (34 metres). As you navigate the trail, you will find yourself winding through peaceful pine forests, which offer welcome shade on warmer days. The route also opens up to fields of tall grass, providing varied scenery, and you might catch glimpses of the Intracoastal Waterway, a notable feature of the area.

Before you head out, be aware that while listed as a touring cycling route, The Hulk is primarily designed for mountain biking and trail running. Its singletrack nature and technical features, including switchbacks, berms, and jumps, are better suited for mountain bikes. The trail operates as a one-directional system for bikers to manage traffic flow and enhance safety. Parking is conveniently available at the Carolina Forest Bike Run Park.

The terrain on The Hulk consists of packed dirt, pine straw, and occasional loose sand, with roots and man-made hills adding to the experience. This design specifically caters to mountain biking, offering a dynamic ride for those with the appropriate equipment. If you are looking for a trail that challenges your mountain biking skills, this route provides a unique opportunity within Horry County Bike & Run Park.