The best road cycling routes around La Crescent

La Crescent offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from easy riverbed rides to challenging climbs atop the bluffs of the Driftless region. You'll find routes with significant elevation changes, scenic byways, and paths through apple orchards and along the Mississippi River Valley. There are over 45 routes available, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, the Driftless region around La Crescent is known for its challenging terrain, featuring steep bluffs and hills that provide excellent training grounds. Routes like the La Crescent-Nodine-La Crescent (L-N-L) offer mixed-road experiences with significant gravel climbs, some exceeding 400 feet of vertical gain and 14% grades. The OCC Enduro route also presents a demanding ride with nearly 4,000 feet of climbing over six major hills.

Absolutely. For easier rides, you can explore paved trails like the Wagon Wheel Trail, which runs through the backwaters of the Mississippi River. The nearby 60-mile Root River Trail, a paved network, is also easily accessible by riding south from La Crescent to Houston. For a moderately easy loop with scenic views, consider the Riverside Park – Tschumper Hill Views loop from La Crosse, which offers less demanding climbs.

The spring, particularly mid-May during the apple blossom season, offers beautiful scenery as the orchards bloom. Fall is also a popular time, with vibrant autumn colors and the annual Applefest celebration in September. Summers are generally good, but it's always wise to check the weather forecast, especially for longer rides.

Road cycling in La Crescent is defined by stunning natural beauty. You'll encounter panoramic vistas of the Mississippi River Valley from towering bluffs, ride through picturesque apple orchards, and cycle along scenic byways like the Apple Blossom Scenic Byway and the Great River Road. Many routes offer direct views of the Mississippi River and its backwaters.

Many of the road cycling routes around La Crescent are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Riverside Park loop from La Crosse, which covers over 37 miles, and the Mary of the Angels Chapel loop from La Crosse, offering varied terrain over 27 miles.

While cycling, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the bluffs and the Mississippi River. Notable viewpoints include Grandad Bluff Viewpoint and Rim of the City Viewpoint, offering expansive views. You might also pass by Riverside Park, a great spot for a break, or catch a glimpse of the A Triple Confluence of Rivers.

Many routes start from areas with accessible parking. For routes originating near La Crosse, areas around Riverside Park are common starting points and likely offer parking facilities. For specific routes, checking the individual route details on komoot will provide the most accurate parking information.

The road cycling routes in La Crescent are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging bluff climbs to scenic river views, and the overall beauty of the Driftless region.

Yes, La Crescent hosts the annual Apple Blossom Bike Tour every August. This event offers multiple rides, ranging from a scenic 16-mile journey along the Mississippi River bed to a more challenging 100-mile ride along the bluff tops, providing a great opportunity to explore the area with fellow cyclists.

While specific cafes on every route aren't guaranteed, the area offers options. Riverside Park in La Crosse provides amenities, and the River View Vineyard & Winery offers a place to relax with views overlooking the bluffs. For longer rides, it's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on more remote sections.