The best road cycling routes around Aurora

Aurora offers a diverse selection of over 20 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy scenic rides to more challenging long-distance tours, allowing cyclists to explore the region's expansive prairies, open spaces, and waterways.

Road cycling in Aurora provides a unique blend of landscapes. You'll encounter vast natural prairie lands and open spaces, often with opportunities to spot local wildlife. Many routes feature scenic views of reservoirs like the Aurora Reservoir and Quincy Reservoir, as well as riparian areas along waterways such as the Sand Creek Regional Greenway and the Highline Canal Trail. On clear days, you can also enjoy stunning distant views of the Rocky Mountains.

Yes, Aurora has several easy and family-friendly road cycling options. Routes like the Fabyan Windmill – Riverside Park loop from Aurora offer a gentle ride through parklands. The 8.8-mile paved trail around the Aurora Reservoir is also highly regarded for its accessibility and scenic views, making it ideal for all ages.

For those seeking longer rides, the Fox River Trail is a significant option, stretching over 66 miles and offering extensive riverside views. Another substantial route is the Fabyan Windmill – Fabyan Forest Preserve loop from Route 59, which covers over 47 miles.

While Aurora's terrain is primarily flat to gently rolling, some routes offer longer distances and moderate elevation gains that can be challenging. The Fox River Trail, for instance, is classified as difficult due to its length of over 66 miles and cumulative elevation gain of approximately 1,267 feet.

Yes, loop trails are a popular feature for road cycling in Aurora. Examples include the Fabyan Windmill – Riverside Park loop from Aurora and the North Aurora Dam – Batavia Riverwalk loop from Route 59. The Aurora Reservoir also features a well-known 8.8-mile paved loop around the water.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant weather for road cycling in Aurora, with milder temperatures and less extreme heat or cold. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the day to avoid the peak heat. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary, requiring appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potential snow.

While much of Aurora's cycling experience is characterized by open prairie, some trails offer more shaded sections. The Tollgate Creek Trail, for example, features more wooded terrain. Additionally, sections of the Highline Canal Trail and parts of Cherry Creek State Park may provide some relief from the sun, especially along riparian areas.

Many routes offer scenic views of natural features like the Aurora Reservoir and the Fox River. You can also explore various points of interest such as the West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve, Danada Forest Preserve, and the Batavia Depot Museum. The Fox River Trail (FRT) itself is a highlight, offering extensive riverside views.

Yes, Aurora is known for its beautiful reservoirs and waterways. The Aurora Reservoir features an 8.8-mile paved trail directly around its perimeter. Cherry Creek State Park also boasts an 850-acre reservoir with waterside paths. Additionally, you can find highlights like Whalon Lake Park and Herrick Lake in the surrounding area, offering pleasant waterside cycling experiences.

The road cycling routes in Aurora are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the expansive prairie views, the scenic reservoir loops, and the well-maintained trails that offer a sense of freedom and connection with nature. The variety of routes, from easy parkland rides to longer riverfront journeys, is also frequently highlighted.

For additional information on outdoor activities and attractions in Aurora, you can visit the official tourism website. They provide resources on the city's extensive parks, trails, and open spaces, which are ideal for various outdoor pursuits. You can explore more at visitaurora.com.