The best road cycling routes around Long Lake

Yes, the Long Lake area offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and families. Out of 72 total routes, 32 are classified as easy. An excellent option is the Welcome to Loretto Sign loop from Kreatz Lake, which is an easy 20.9-mile (33.7 km) ride with gentle elevation changes.

Road cycling routes around Long Lake vary in length, catering to different preferences. You'll find routes ranging from approximately 20 to 40 miles (32 to 64 km). For example, the Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Wayzata is about 38.7 miles (62.3 km), while the Arcola Trestle Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from 12 Av N covers about 20.7 miles (33.3 km).

Many popular routes, such as those starting from Wayzata, offer accessible parking options. Specific parking details are often available on individual route pages on komoot, providing information on starting points and nearby facilities.

The most enjoyable seasons for road cycling around Long Lake are typically spring, summer, and fall. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the natural scenery, including the numerous lakes and woodlands, is at its best. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

While the Long Lake region is characterized by gentle elevation changes, there are routes that offer more of a challenge. Out of 72 routes, 40 are classified as moderate. The Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Wayzata, for instance, features a significant elevation gain of 351 meters over 38.7 miles (62.3 km), providing a good workout.

Road cycling around Long Lake offers diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll frequently encounter routes that follow lakefront paths, wind through mixed woodlands, and cross regional trails. The landscape is defined by numerous lakes and gentle rolling hills, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Long Lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cedar Lake – Brownie Lake loop from Wayzata and the Arcola Trestle Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata, both offering convenient circular journeys.

The Long Lake area is rich with natural beauty and points of interest. Along your rides, you might encounter highlights such as the historic Arcola Trestle Bridge, the scenic St. Albans Bay Bridge, or the tranquil Ferndale Marsh. Many routes also pass by beautiful lakes like Lake Minnetonka.

The road cycling routes around Long Lake are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lake views, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

While popular routes can see more traffic, the Long Lake region offers a network of 72 routes, providing ample opportunities to find quieter roads and trails, especially during off-peak hours or by exploring some of the less-trafficked local roads that connect the various lakes and woodlands.

Access to specific trailheads via public transport can vary. For detailed information on public transport links to starting points, it's best to check the individual route descriptions on komoot, as they often provide guidance on how to reach the beginning of the tour.

There are over 70 road cycling routes available around Long Lake on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 32 easy routes and 40 moderate routes.