The best cycling routes in Mills County

Mills County offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll encounter the unique Loess Hills with their steep, narrow ridges and bluffs, providing challenging climbs and rewarding descents. To the west, the Missouri River floodplain offers contrasting flat landscapes. Areas like West Oak Forest feature mature hardwood forests, providing shaded routes.

Yes, komoot features over 10 touring cycling routes in Mills County. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 4 easy and 6 moderate options, ensuring there's a suitable ride for most cyclists.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from the scenic Loess Hills to the gentle rail-trails, and the diverse natural attractions.

Yes, Mills County has several easy routes suitable for families. The Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Lewis Township is an easy option, as is the Hastings Banner Park – Big Papio Trail loop from Bellevue Second I Precinct. The Wabash Trace Nature Trail, a 63-mile crushed limestone rail-trail, also offers relatively flat and scenic sections perfect for a relaxed family ride.

Many outdoor areas in Mills County are dog-friendly, especially trails like the Wabash Trace Nature Trail. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations for areas like Pony Creek Park or West Oak Forest regarding leash requirements and designated pet areas to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Mills County is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You'll encounter the dramatic Loess Hills, the expansive Missouri River floodplain, and mature hardwood forests. Points of interest include Pony Creek Park, which is a National Historic Landmark, and the Glenwood Archaeological State Preserve with its significant cultural sites. Folsom Point Preserve offers sweeping vistas of the Missouri River floodplain and the Loess Hills.

Yes, many routes in Mills County are designed as loops. For example, you can try the Wabash Trace Trail – Tobey Jack's Steakhouse loop from Saint Paul Evangelical Country Church Cemetery, or the Tobey Jack's Steakhouse – Wabash Trace Nature Trail loop from Lewis Township. Another option is the Bike loop from Bellevue University.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions in Mills County, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially when the Loess Hills are green or displaying autumn colors. Summer can be warm, but shaded routes through forests provide relief. Winter cycling is possible but requires checking trail conditions for snow or ice.

Parking is typically available at trailheads and designated park areas throughout Mills County. For instance, the Wabash Trace Nature Trail has various access points in towns it connects. Parks like Pony Creek Park and Glenwood Lake Park also offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking locations.

Yes, towns within and around Mills County, such as Glenwood, Malvern, and Pacific Junction, offer various amenities. You can find restaurants, cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these communities. The popular 'Thursday night Taco Ride into Mineola' on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail highlights local dining experiences.

The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, often referred to for its glacial history, traverses portions of Mills County, offering stunning drives and overlooks. While it's primarily a scenic road, cyclists can enjoy sections of it, bearing in mind it's a shared road with vehicle traffic. The unique geology of the Loess Hills provides a dramatic backdrop for any ride along this byway.

For longer rides, consider combining sections of the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which spans 63 miles, with other local routes. The Old railroad bridge and dam – West Papio Creek Bridge loop from Bellevue University is a moderate 41.6-mile (66.9 km) route that offers a significant distance for touring cyclists.