The best road cycling routes around Memphis

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Memphis, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, flat rides to more moderate excursions.

Memphis is characterized by its generally flat terrain, making it ideal for road cycling. Routes often feature expansive urban parks like Shelby Farms Park, riverfront areas along the iconic Mississippi River, and extensive greenways that weave through urban forests and wetlands.

Yes, Memphis offers many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Terra Ceia Bay – Emerson Point Preserve loop from Memphis is an easy 24.2-mile (38.9 km) path. Many of the city's greenways, like the Shelby Farms Greenline, are also flat and paved, providing a comfortable ride.

For longer rides, consider routes like the Bishop Harbor to Emerson Point Preserve loop, which covers 34.3 miles (55.2 km) with gentle elevation changes. Another popular choice is the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve loop from Palmetto, a moderate 30.9-mile (49.7 km) path offering varied scenery.

The road cycling routes in Memphis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of trails, the diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained greenways that make for enjoyable rides.

While cycling, you can encounter several interesting spots. The De Soto Monument is a historical site you might pass. For scenic views, look for an Observation Tower along some routes, offering panoramic vistas. The Mississippi River itself provides stunning backdrops, especially from areas like Tom Lee Park and River Garden Park.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Memphis are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the De Soto Monument – Robinson Preserve loop from Palmetto, a 29.9-mile (48.1 km) trail, and the Robinson Preserve loop from Bradenton, which is an easy 14.9-mile (23.9 km) option.

Memphis offers a wealth of natural attractions. Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the US, provides extensive trails and even a bison herd. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers a serene escape with hardwood forests. The Mississippi River and its riverfront parks are also prominent features, providing beautiful views and opportunities for other activities.

Absolutely. The Shelby Farms Greenline is a key 10.65-mile paved trail connecting Midtown Memphis to Shelby Farms Park. The Wolf River Greenway is also continually expanding, aiming to link the Mississippi River to the Shelby Farms Greenline, creating a vast interconnected network for cyclists.

Memphis generally has mild winters and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, with comfortable weather and beautiful scenery. Early mornings in summer can also be enjoyable before the heat peaks.

Yes, you can incorporate historical sites into your rides. The De Soto Monument is one such landmark. Additionally, the Chucalissa Indian Village archaeological site is located within T.O. Fuller State Park, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Many of the larger parks and greenways in Memphis, such as Shelby Farms Park and various access points along the Wolf River Greenway, offer designated parking areas for trail users. It's advisable to check specific trailheads for parking availability before your ride.