The best road cycling routes in Warren County
4.8
(4)
542
riders
32
rides
Road cycling in Warren County offers a varied landscape, encompassing quiet back roads, rolling hills, and repurposed rail trails. The terrain includes both flat stretches and challenging ascents, with routes winding through pine and hardwood forests, alongside rivers, and across agricultural valleys. This region provides diverse cycling experiences, from leisurely rides to more rigorous workouts.
Best road cycling routes in Warren County
- The most popular road cycling route is Carlisle and Summerset Trail Loop, an easy 30.0 miles (48.3…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
1
riders
48.3km
02:00
240m
240m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
72
riders
39.7km
02:07
120m
120m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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46
riders
30.7km
01:24
110m
110m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
76.7km
04:54
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
35
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
14
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
38.6km
01:37
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
73.7km
03:19
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
19.8km
02:06
60m
60m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
22.1km
00:55
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Walking up to the Iowa State Capitol is a fun way to add a bit of elevation to your urban hike. The grounds are open and walkable, with paths leading around the building and great views over downtown Des Moines.
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This sandy beach at Gray’s Lake is a great spot to pause during or after your hike. Dip your feet in the water, relax on the sand, or even have a quick picnic before finishing the loop around the lake.
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The Bill Riley Trail is a 2.7-mile paved pathway that winds through wooded areas, including Ashworth Park, and crosses the Raccoon River via a rustic trestle bridge. The trail is named after Bill Riley, a member of the Des Moines Park Board who played a significant role in raising funds for the city's trail system. It is popular among cyclists, walkers, and runners, and although dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash. Parking is available near the Ashworth Memorial Pool in Ashworth Park, and in Gray's Lake Park.
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The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
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The Walnut Creek Trail is a 3.2-mile, flat, paved multi-use trail that serves as a vital connector within the Des Moines metropolitan area's extensive trail network. Starting in Windsor Heights, the trail links to the Clive Greenbelt Trail at 73rd Street, providing access to the western suburbs. It extends southward, connecting to the Bill Riley Trail, which leads into Des Moines' broader trail system. The trail is popular for biking, inline skating, walking, and birding.
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Greenway Park is a multiuse trail that runs from Adventureland Drive to Lions Park. It is fully paved and open to cyclists, walkers and joggers. At the halfway point of the trail, there is also a playground for children.
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Water Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and spans 1,500 acres. It is managed by Water Works, a publicly owned municipal water utility serving the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. It ranks among the largest urban parks in the United States, features a beer garden, and is dog-friendly.
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As you make your way over the bridge you will catch views of the Raccoon River, a tributary of the Des Moines River. Stretching over 30.8 miles, this river winds through an area of intense cultivation, including croplands and livestock farming. Since the 19th century, the Des Moines metropolitan area has relied on this river for drinking water, although it faced challenges during the Great Flood of 1993.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Warren County?
Warren County offers a diverse road cycling landscape. You'll find a mix of quiet back roads, rolling hills, and repurposed rail trails. Depending on the specific area, routes can range from flatter sections, like Rockport Road in New Jersey, to more challenging climbs and winding roads through pine and hardwood forests, such as those near Oxford ridge or Jenny Jump Mountain.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Warren County?
Yes, several areas in Warren County are suitable for family-friendly rides. In Warren County, New York, the Warren County Bikeway is a paved multi-use trail connecting Glens Falls to Lake George, offering mostly flat or gently rolling terrain. In New Jersey, the Paulins Kill Valley rail trail provides a 26-mile off-road adventure through pastoral scenery, which can be enjoyed by families.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or landmarks along road cycling routes?
Warren County offers numerous scenic views. In New Jersey, Jackson Valley Road provides wide views of the Oxford ridge, and Foul Rift Road follows the picturesque Delaware River. In New York, the Warren County Bikeway features scenic views and historical markers along its path to Lake George. While there are no specific highlights linked in the data, the natural beauty of the Musconetcong River, wooded slopes, and agricultural valleys provide constant visual interest.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, there are several circular routes designed for road cyclists. For example, the Carlisle and Summerset Trail Loop is an easy 30-mile option. Another popular choice is the Gray's Lake Park – Raccoon River loop from Cumming, which is a moderate 24.7-mile path offering river views.
How many road cycling routes are available in Warren County?
There are over 40 road cycling routes available in Warren County, catering to various skill levels. This includes 15 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and a couple of more challenging options.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Warren County?
The road cycling routes in Warren County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet back roads, rolling hills, and scenic rail trails that define the region's diverse cycling experiences.
Are there options for longer distance road cycling in Warren County?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Warren County offers routes that can extend for significant distances. In Warren County, Ohio, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is a notable option, spanning 78 miles and allowing for multi-day excursions. In New York, beyond the bikeway, the broader region provides dozens of route options from 10 to over 100 miles.
What are some good options for easy road cycling routes?
For an easier ride, consider routes like the Raccoon River – Easter Lake Park loop from Easter Lake, which is 17.5 miles long and features gentle elevation changes. Many of the rail trails, such as the Paulins Kill Valley rail trail in New Jersey or the Warren County Bikeway in New York, also provide relatively flat and accessible surfaces.
Where can I find more challenging road cycling routes in Warren County?
For a more rigorous workout, look for routes in areas with more significant elevation changes. In Warren County, New Jersey, roads like Free Union, Lake Just-It, and Quemby Mountain are known for providing robust workouts with minimal traffic. The region also features challenging steeps in areas like the Adirondacks in Warren County, New York.
Is public transport or parking available near road cycling trailheads?
While specific public transport details for all trailheads are not provided, many popular cycling areas, such as the Warren County Bikeway in New York, are designed with accessibility in mind, often including parking facilities. For detailed information on transport and parking options for the Warren County Bikeway, you can visit the official county website: warrencountyny.gov/transport/bike.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Warren County?
The best time for road biking in Warren County generally aligns with spring, summer, and fall, when the weather is most favorable. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and allow cyclists to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes, from lush forests to open agricultural valleys. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any routes that follow rivers or offer water views?
Yes, several routes in Warren County offer beautiful water views. In New Jersey, Foul Rift Road follows the scenic Delaware River. In Ohio, the Little Miami Scenic Trail runs alongside the Little Miami River. Additionally, routes like the Des Moines River – Bridge Over Des Moines loop from Easter Lake Estates provide views of the Des Moines River.
Most popular routes in Warren County
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