The best cycling routes around Shivey
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Touring cycling around Shivey offers a variety of routes across diverse terrain. The area features paths that traverse both open landscapes and more sheltered sections. Cyclists can expect a mix of elevation changes, providing options for different fitness levels. The routes generally consist of paved and well-maintained surfaces suitable for touring bicycles.
Best touring cycling routes around Shivey
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, an easy 12.9 miles (20.8 km)…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Shivey
Tips from the Community
For cyclists following the 'Lough Neagh Cycle Way' (National Cycle Route 94), the Maghery footbridge is an iconic resting point and an essential link. This elegant, modern bridge spans the mouth of the Upper Bann as it enters the lough.
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As you cycle through the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, the Wellbrook Beetling Mill is an absolute must for a stopover. Situated in an idyllic, wooded stream valley along the Ballinderry River, this 19th-century water mill provides a stark contrast to the tranquility of its surroundings. This is the last working 'beetling mill' in the United Kingdom. "Beetling" was the final step in traditional Irish linen production: using enormous wooden hammers (beetles), powered by a water wheel nearly five metres high, the linen was processed for hours until it acquired its characteristic sheen. When the mill is running, you can hear the rhythmic thudding from afar – an impressive sound that takes you straight back to the industrial heyday of Northern Ireland.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of touring cycling routes can I find around Shively?
The Shively area, as part of greater Louisville, offers a diverse network of touring cycling routes. You'll find everything from well-maintained paved paths like portions of the Louisville Loop to routes with varied terrain, including asphalt, concrete, crushed stone, and even natural surfaces. Options range from easy, gentle rides to more challenging paths with significant ascents, catering to different fitness levels.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Shively area?
Yes, the region offers several excellent options for family-friendly touring cycling. The Louisville Loop, particularly through the Parklands of Floyd Fork, is known for its beautiful scenery, excellent maintenance, and clean restrooms, making it ideal for families. Additionally, Cherokee Park features a 2.3-mile paved Scenic Loop that is perfect for leisurely rides with children.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes around Shively?
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For example, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort is an easy 12.9-mile (20.8 km) circular route. Another option is the Bike loop from Cookstown, a moderate 28.1-mile (45.2 km) path that also forms a loop. For a more challenging circular ride, consider The Sperrins loop from Cookstown.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling near Shively?
The Shively area and its surroundings boast several interesting landmarks. The Tullyhogue Fort is a significant natural monument that can be explored. You might also encounter historical sites like the Drum Manor House Ruins or the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery. For scenic views, the Big Four Bridge offers a unique cycling experience across the Ohio River, connecting Kentucky and Indiana.
Are there any routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Absolutely. For those seeking an easy touring cycling experience, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort is an excellent choice. This 12.9-mile (20.8 km) route is classified as easy and offers a gentle ride through the local area, typically taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
What about more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced touring cyclists will find several challenging routes. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult 33.5-mile (53.9 km) trail that leads through more demanding landscapes, often taking around 4 hours. Another difficult option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which spans over 44 miles (71.9 km) and features significant elevation changes.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Shively area?
Kentucky, including the Shively area, generally offers pleasant cycling conditions during spring and fall. These seasons typically provide milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. While summer can be warm, early mornings or late afternoons are often suitable. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary, so checking local weather forecasts is advisable.
Are there opportunities for bikepacking near Shively?
Yes, the broader Kentucky region, including areas like the Red River Gorge and Big South Fork, offers various bikepacking routes. These range from beginner-friendly overnighters to more advanced multi-day adventures, often featuring mixed surfaces including gravel and singletrack, providing a great experience for those looking for longer cycling trips.
Are there any specific trails that offer scenic river views?
Absolutely. The Ohio River Greenway is a prime location for scenic river views, offering picturesque rides along the riverfront. Additionally, the Big Four Bridge provides stunning panoramic views of the Ohio River as you cycle between Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes around Shively feature varied terrain. You can expect well-maintained asphalt and concrete surfaces on popular trails like the Louisville Loop. Other trails, such as the Patoka Lake Bike Trails or the Ohio River Greenway, may include a mix of crushed stone, dirt, and gravel, offering diverse riding experiences suitable for touring bicycles.
Is public transport bike-friendly in Louisville for accessing trails?
Louisville's public transport system, TARC, generally accommodates bicycles. Most TARC buses are equipped with bike racks on the front, allowing cyclists to transport their bikes to various trailheads and destinations throughout the city, including areas that provide access to the extensive cycling network.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in the Shively area?
Many popular cycling destinations in the Louisville area, including access points for the Louisville Loop and trails within the Parklands of Floyd Fork, offer designated parking areas. For specific trails like the Big Four Bridge, parking is available nearby, often with bike rental options as well. It's always recommended to check specific trailheads for parking availability before your ride.
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