1.
Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station
23.5km
01:09
110m
110m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The best road cycling routes around St. Marys River
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 29, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around St. Marys River, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the ones that truly deliver. Consider this your shortcut to the best road cycling in the area, saving you the guesswork.
Road cycling around St. Marys River is defined by its beautiful riverine landscapes and gentle hills. You'll find a mix of flat sections perfect for cruising and moderate climbs that offer a satisfying challenge, all while traversing waterways like the St. Marys River itself and the Root River. The terrain offers a great balance, connecting urban starting points to natural areas with gentle elevation changes.
If you only do one route, make it the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station. At 14.4 miles (23.2 km), it's an easy ride that takes you right past the unique St. Marys River lock gates, offering a distinctive experience. For those looking for a longer, more varied day out, the Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station, at 48.1 miles (77.5 km), is a moderate option that explores two river valleys with more significant elevation gain. With more than 30 road cyclists having explored these routes with komoot, you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station | 23.5 km | 110 m | Easy |
| Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station | 77.5 km | 690 m | Moderate |
| Root River loop from Greyhound station | 60.4 km | 480 m | Moderate |
| Roadbike loop from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School | 27.1 km | 140 m | Easy |
2.
Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station
77.5km
03:24
690m
690m
If you're seeking a rewarding road cycling adventure near Sault Ste. Marie, the Root River – Goulais River loop offers a fantastic journey through Algoma Country's diverse landscapes. This moderate route spans 48.1 miles (77.5 km) and includes 2251 feet (686 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You'll pedal through beautiful forested areas, alongside sparkling waterways, and potentially catch views of the Goulais River valley, all on mostly well-paved surfaces that make it a joy for road bikes.
Starting conveniently from the Greyhound station in Sault Ste. Marie, this loop is easily accessible for a day trip. While specific parking information for cyclists at the station isn't detailed, its central location makes it a practical starting point. Given the route's length and elevation, ensure you're well-prepared with water and snacks, and consider riding during the spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.
This loop is celebrated as one of the most beautiful road biking routes in the Unorganized North Algoma area, showcasing the rugged wilderness and ancient mountains characteristic of the Canadian Shield. The Goulais River itself, originating in the Algoma Highlands and flowing into Lake Superior, provides a stunning natural backdrop to your ride. It's a prime example of why Sault Ste. Marie is becoming a favorite Ontario destination for road cycling enthusiasts.
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3.
Root River loop from Greyhound station
60.4km
02:37
480m
480m
The Root River loop from Greyhound station offers a delightful road cycling adventure through Minnesota's scenic Bluff Country. You'll pedal along a well-maintained paved trail, tracing the Root River's course and enjoying views of dramatic limestone bluffs and lush, tree-covered hillsides. This moderate 37.5-mile (60.4 km) route, with 1591 feet (485 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied experience, from gentle stretches to a few more challenging inclines, making it a great option for a 2-hour and 36-minute ride.
Planning your ride often involves connecting from a hub like La Crosse, Wisconsin, to the trail's eastern end in Houston, Minnesota, as there isn't a direct trailhead at a Greyhound station. The trail is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer ideal conditions for cycling. You'll find essential amenities like restrooms and bike tune-up stations in the charming trail towns scattered along the route, ensuring a comfortable journey.
This route is built on a former railroad corridor, giving it a unique character with historic trestles and a gentle, consistent grade for much of its length. The trail is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including wild turkeys and deer, and its connection to welcoming trail towns like Lanesboro and Whalan, which offer local shops and eateries. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's natural beauty and small-town charm on two wheels.
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4.
Roadbike loop from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School
27.1km
01:07
140m
140m
The Roadbike loop from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School offers a wonderfully accessible road cycling experience in Sault Ste. Marie. You'll enjoy well-paved surfaces throughout this easy 16.8-mile (27.1 km) route, which features a modest 444 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain. The ride is designed for comfort and ease, making it a great choice for a casual spin or a quick workout, typically completed in just over an hour.
Starting conveniently from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School, this loop is perfect for those looking for a straightforward ride without complex navigation or challenging terrain. Parking is generally available in the vicinity of the school, making access simple. It's a versatile route that can be enjoyed during most daylight hours and seasons, provided the roads are clear.
This route is a fantastic way to experience the local cycling infrastructure, potentially incorporating parts of the dedicated cycle lanes found on Korah Road. While specific scenic highlights for this exact loop are general, the broader Sault Ste. Marie area is known for its diverse landscapes, including waterfronts and forested sections. It's a solid option for anyone seeking a reliable and enjoyable road bike loop in the region.
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Tips from the Community
Vanessa
August 28, 2024, Über die Schleusentore
Your way to South St. Mary's Island takes you through one of the lock gates. The Visitor Center is located right next to the lock, where you can find out more about the island and its walking trails.
Translated by Google•
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around St. Marys River?
The St. Marys River region is characterized by waterways, including the St. Marys River and Root River, alongside urban and suburban areas. You'll find routes with gentle elevation changes, some incorporating lock gates and river valleys, offering a mix of flat sections and moderate climbs.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, there are easy road cycling options. For instance, the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station is an easy 14.4-mile (23.2 km) route that takes about 1 hour 7 minutes to complete, featuring sections near the St. Marys River lock gates. Another easy option is the Roadbike loop from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School, which is 16.8 miles (27.1 km) long.
Are there any longer or more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station is a popular choice. This route is 48.1 miles (77.5 km) long with significant elevation gain, exploring the river valleys of the Root and Goulais Rivers. Another moderate option is the Root River loop from Greyhound station, which covers 37.5 miles (60.4 km) through the Root River valley.
What is the best season for road biking around St. Marys River?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, riverine landscapes and gentle hills typically offer pleasant cycling conditions from late spring through early autumn. This period generally avoids winter conditions and offers more stable weather for exploring the region's routes.
Are there any loop road cycling routes available?
Yes, all the highlighted routes around St. Marys River are designed as loops. Examples include the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station, the Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station, and the Root River loop from Greyhound station, providing convenient circular journeys.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in St. Marys River?
The road cycling routes in St. Marys River are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Over 30 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the mix of riverine landscapes and gentle hills.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the road cycling routes?
The routes are known for traversing riverine landscapes, including the St. Marys River and Root River valleys. Cyclists can enjoy views of these waterways and the surrounding urban and suburban areas, with some routes passing by the St. Marys River lock gates, which are a notable feature of the region.
What are the typical durations for road cycling routes in this area?
Route durations vary depending on length and difficulty. Easy routes like the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station typically take around 1 hour 7 minutes. Moderate routes, such as the Root River loop from Greyhound station, can take approximately 2 hours 36 minutes, while longer routes like the Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station might take over 3 hours.
Are there any specific considerations for road cycling in winter around St. Marys River?
Road cycling in winter can present challenges due to snow and ice, especially in regions with river valleys. It's advisable to check local weather and road conditions before planning a winter ride, as some routes may not be maintained for cycling during colder months.
How many road cycling routes are there in total around St. Marys River?
There are 4 road cycling routes detailed for the St. Marys River area, offering a range of easy to moderate options for cyclists.
Are the road cycling routes around St. Marys River suitable for families?
Routes with gentle elevation changes and shorter distances, such as the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station, could be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with road cycling. Always consider the specific abilities of all family members and local traffic conditions.
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