The best road cycling routes around Afton

Road cycling around Afton offers a diverse landscape, from the scenic St. Croix River Valley with its bluffs and ravines to rolling prairies and oak savannas. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, including challenging climbs with grades over 10% on roads like Afton Hills Drive and 50th Street, as well as more moderate rollers on St. Croix Trail Road. The area provides a mix of open spaces and wooded sections, ensuring varied scenery throughout your ride.

Yes, Afton is known for its challenging climbs, making it a great training ground. Roads like Afton Hills Drive and 50th Street feature grades exceeding 11%, and a 14% climb can be found leading up to St. Mary's Church. For a longer, more demanding ride, consider the St. Paul Grand Round – Fort Snelling Overlook loop from City Walk Mews, which covers 45.3 miles with significant elevation gain.

Many routes offer stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley. You can also explore areas within Afton State Park, which features rolling prairies, oak savannas, and wooded river bluffs. Notable landmarks include the historic Rattlesnake Effigy Mounds. For specific scenic spots, consider visiting the Saint Croix River Viewpoint or cycling past Colby Lake.

Yes, Afton offers several easier routes suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The Selma's Ice Cream – Woodfill Prairie bench loop from Lakeland Shores is an easy 17.5-mile path traversing rolling prairies. Afton State Park also features about 2.8 miles of paved bike trails, providing beautiful views in a controlled environment.

Absolutely. Many of Afton's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular options include the St. Paul Grand Round – Fort Snelling Overlook loop, the Selma's Ice Cream – Woodfill Prairie bench loop, and the Hop and Barrel Brewery – Lakefront Park Pier loop. Another great choice is the Colby Lake loop from Parkside.

The St. Croix River Valley is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer provides warm weather for longer rides, and fall showcases stunning foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as seasonal changes can affect road surfaces and visibility.

Afton itself has a charming small-town atmosphere with amenities like cafes, perfect for a post-ride break. While specific cafes on routes aren't listed, popular loops like the Selma's Ice Cream loop suggest opportunities for refreshment stops. Many routes are close enough to the town center for convenient access to food and drink.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Afton, with an average score of 4.25 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic river views, and the variety of routes available for different fitness levels. The picturesque landscapes of the St. Croix River Valley and Afton State Park are frequently highlighted as major draws.

Afton State Park offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and some bike trails. While the park is generally dog-friendly on hiking trails, specific rules regarding dogs on designated bike trails can vary. It's always best to check the official Afton State Park website or contact the park directly for the most current regulations on cycling with dogs.

There are over 40 road cycling routes available around Afton, catering to various skill levels. This includes 20 easy routes and 23 moderate routes, ensuring there's something for everyone, from casual riders to those seeking a more challenging workout.

Afton's diverse ecosystems, particularly within Afton State Park, are home to a variety of wildlife. Cyclists might spot numerous bird species, as over 190 have been identified in the park, especially in the rolling prairies and oak savannas. Keep an eye out for other native animals as you cycle through wooded areas and along Trout Brook.