The best cycling routes in Bingham County

Bingham County offers 6 touring cycling routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes provide diverse experiences, from scenic river paths to agricultural landscapes.

Yes, Bingham County has 5 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. Options include the Idaho Falls Greenbelt loop, which follows the scenic Snake River, and The Greater Blackfoot Area Greenbelt, offering pleasant paths through the city's greenway system. Additionally, Jensen Grove Park in Blackfoot features a 6.5-mile paved trail, and Sportsman's Park near American Falls Reservoir has a 1.1-mile paved trail with picturesque views.

Touring cyclists in Bingham County will experience a variety of landscapes. You can ride along fertile river valleys, notably the Snake River and Blackfoot River, and through extensive agricultural lands known for potato production. Dedicated greenway systems offer urban green spaces, while quieter county roads provide glimpses into the region's rural character. For a unique, more challenging experience, the vast lava fields of Hell's Half Acre present an otherworldly, though exposed, landscape.

Absolutely. Bingham County features several paved options ideal for touring cyclists. The greenway systems in Blackfoot and Shelley offer traffic-separated, paved paths. Jensen Grove Park in Blackfoot boasts a 6.5-mile paved trail, and Sportsman's Park near the American Falls Reservoir has a 1.1-mile paved trail along the rim, providing smooth surfaces for enjoyable rides.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Bingham County are loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular options include the Idaho Falls Greenbelt loop, the Shelley to Snake River loop, and the Sunnyside Bike Path loop.

The best season for touring cycling in Bingham County is generally spring through fall. During these months, the weather is most favorable, allowing for comfortable rides through agricultural fields and along riverbanks. Summers can be warm and exposed, especially in areas like Hell's Half Acre, so planning for hydration is key. Winters can bring snow and colder temperatures, making many routes less accessible for touring cycling.

Yes, wildlife spotting is possible, especially along the river systems. The Snake River and Blackfoot River areas are good places to look for various bird species. Wolverine Canyon, while more rugged, is known for wildlife viewing, including Bald Eagles, though it's primarily suited for mountain biking and hiking rather than touring cycling.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Bingham County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the scenic routes along the Snake River, the peaceful rides through agricultural fields, and the well-maintained greenway systems that offer accessible and enjoyable experiences for all skill levels.

Many routes in Bingham County are suitable for families, particularly those on paved greenways and park trails. The The Greater Blackfoot Area Greenbelt and the paved trails in Jensen Grove Park offer relatively flat and traffic-separated environments, making them excellent choices for families with children.

While cycling, you'll encounter the natural beauty of the Snake and Blackfoot Rivers. The Idaho Falls Greenbelt loop takes you through urban green spaces alongside the Snake River. You'll also pass through agricultural landscapes, offering a glimpse into the region's farming heritage. For more information on local attractions, you can visit the Bingham County website at binghamid.gov.

Parking is generally available at various access points for the greenway systems and parks. For instance, Jensen Grove Park in Blackfoot and Sportsman's Park near American Falls Reservoir offer dedicated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting points on komoot for detailed parking information.

Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the Shelley to Snake River loop is a moderate 26.1-mile (42.1 km) path. This route offers views of agricultural fields and includes river crossings, providing a more extended touring experience through the county's rural areas.