The best road cycling routes in St. Bernard Parish

St. Bernard Parish offers a diverse network of road cycling routes. You can find over 25 routes, with options ranging from easy rides to more challenging long-distance tours.

The terrain in St. Bernard Parish is predominantly flat, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. Routes generally feature minimal elevation gain, with most tours having less than 50 meters of ascent and descent. This allows for smooth, enjoyable rides through the parish's unique landscape of waterways and wetlands.

The road cycling routes in St. Bernard Parish are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views along the Mississippi River, the flat and accessible terrain, and the developing bikeway system that enhances safety and connectivity.

Yes, St. Bernard Parish is very beginner-friendly for road cycling. There are 16 easy routes available, perfect for those new to road biking or looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Roadbike loop from Gretna, which is just over 13 km long.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer challenge, routes like Plaquemines Parish offer an 85.1-mile ride through flat, open landscapes. The Mississippi River Trail also provides a substantial 58.4-mile option, offering a moderate challenge with scenic views.

Yes, the parish is developing its bikeway system to include circular routes. The planned 26-mile 40 Arpent Trail is designed as a loop around the parish, with segments already implemented through Arabi, Chalmette, Meraux, and Violet. While not all routes are perfect loops, many offer out-and-back sections or connect to form larger circuits.

St. Bernard Parish offers a rich blend of history and nature. You can cycle past the historic Chalmette Battlefield, explore the charming Old Arabi Historic District, or visit the 40 Arpent Wetlands Observatory. St. Bernard State Park also offers opportunities for hiking and fishing, and the San Bernardo Scenic Byway (LA 46) provides views of historic homes and fishing villages.

Yes, the predominantly flat terrain and developing network of multi-use trails make St. Bernard Parish suitable for family-friendly cycling. Many easy routes are available, and parks like Val Riess Park offer multi-use trails, playgrounds, and a skate park, providing additional recreational options for families.

The best time to go road cycling in St. Bernard Parish is typically during the cooler, drier months, from late fall through early spring (October to April). Summers can be very hot and humid, with a higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, St. Bernard Parish is known for its abundant wildlife, especially birds. The parish's vast wetlands and marshes, including areas like the Bayou Road Wetlands and nearby Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, are excellent for birdwatching. You might spot various bird species, and even alligators in the more remote wetland areas, particularly along routes that skirt these natural habitats.

Many cycling routes in St. Bernard Parish offer convenient parking options, especially near trailheads and parks. For instance, Val Riess Park provides parking for its multi-use trails. Additionally, routes that pass through towns like Arabi, Chalmette, Meraux, and Violet often have accessible street parking or designated lots near local amenities.

While St. Bernard Parish has a local public transit system, its coverage for direct access to specific trailheads might be limited. Cyclists often rely on personal vehicles to reach starting points. However, the parish's bikeway plan aims to connect communities, which may improve public transport accessibility to cycling routes in the future.