The best road cycling routes around Forest Park
4.7
(15)
91
riders
8
rides
Road cycling around Forest Park features a network of routes traversing varied landscapes, including river trails and rolling hills. The region is characterized by its accessible terrain, offering options for both leisurely rides and more challenging paths. Cyclists can expect routes that often follow waterways and pass through suburban and rural areas, providing a mix of scenery. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Best road cycling routes around Forest Park
- The most popular road cycling route is Hamilton – Great Miami River Trail loop from Oscar Event Center, a 27.6 miles (44.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 12 minutes to complete. This moderate route features gentle elevation gains along the Great Miami River.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Roadbike loop from Ross, an easy 20.8 miles (33.4 km) path. This route offers a pleasant ride with moderate elevation changes, suitable for a relaxed outing.
- Local road cyclists also love the Shaker Trace Wetlands loop from Ross, a 35.7 miles (57.5 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 29 minutes.
- Road cycling around Forest Park is defined by river trails, suburban roads, and rolling hills, with routes offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Forest Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 12 reviews. More than 80 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Forest Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.7
(15)
51
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
33.4km
01:25
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
8
riders
48.1km
02:04
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
57.5km
02:29
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Forest Park
Tips from the Community
This public landing is along the Ohio River Trail is a nice spot to stop for a quick dip or to just enjoy the views over the water. It is also near the National Steamboat Monument and the Great American Ball Park.
0
0
The Great Miami River Trail is a 93-mile paved, multi-use trail that closely follows the Great Miami River for nearly its entire route. The trail offers a diverse experience, passing through urban skylines, charming historic downtowns, picnic areas, acres of natural parklands, and gently rolling terrain. Along the way, trail users can enjoy beautiful river vistas and access nearby attractions like museums. With its paved surface suitable for various activities, the Great Miami River Trail caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural and cultural landmarks.
0
0
Scattered across the city of Cincinnati, you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
0
0
Scattered across the city of Cincinnati you will find artfully decorated pig statues. These statues were first created in 2000 by local artists and schools in order to celebrate the history of the city as the pork capital of the US. At one time there had been over 400 different statues on display, but today only a handful still exist outside of private collections. One of the best examples can be found near Sawyer Point and is named "Lucius Quinctus Pigasus".
1
0
Findlay Market is the oldest continuously running marketplace in the state of Ohio, having first opened its doors in 1852. The market hosts a range of food vendors, craft gift shops, and a farmers market on weekends. This is a great place to stop for lunch or just to top up on snacks for your ride.
2
0
Mount Storm is a small park located just on the outskirts of Clifton. The area was once the estate of a wealthy local businessman, but was gifted to the city of Cincinnati in the mid 1900s. Today, the park has a stone shelter pavilion with toilets and drinking water. The views from the shelter overlook the Mill Creek Valley. There is also a beautiful pergola, called the Temple of Love, which looks like it has been transported straight out of ancient Rome.
1
0
Located on the outer loop of the Shaker Trace Trail, these protected wetlands are a haven for bird watchers. Blue Herons are often seen hunting for fish. The area is also amazing for seeing Monarch butterflies in the late summertime.
0
0
This beautiful lake is a great place to go swimming, or to rent a canoe or paddleboat and explore further around the area. At the far end of the lake, there is a massive lily pad garden, and I would highly recommend that if you do rent a boat that you make your way down there!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Forest Park?
Forest Park offers a diverse cycling experience, from lush urban forest paths to routes along the Tualatin Mountain Range, providing varied elevation changes. While some popular routes like Leif Erikson Drive are known for their gravel surfaces, many other routes feature mostly paved sections suitable for road bikes, often following river trails and passing through suburban and rural areas.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, Forest Park has several routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Roadbike loop from Ross is an easy 20.8-mile path with moderate elevation changes, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another easy option is the Findlay Market loop from Wyoming, which is 25.1 miles long.
What is the overall difficulty level of road cycling routes in Forest Park?
The road cycling routes in Forest Park are primarily easy to moderate. Out of 9 available routes, 2 are classified as easy and 7 as moderate, meaning there are no routes considered difficult. This makes the area accessible for a wide range of fitness levels.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Forest Park?
The road cycling routes in Forest Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 12 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of river trails and rolling hills, and the accessibility of routes for different ability levels.
Are there any notable landmarks or viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
While cycling in the Forest Park area, you can encounter several points of interest. Keep an eye out for the Lookout Tower for potential views, or the scenic Buckeye Falls. The region itself is known for its lush urban forest and views of the historic St. Johns Bridge and the Willamette River from various points.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Forest Park?
Yes, many of the routes in Forest Park are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Hamilton – Great Miami River Trail loop from Oscar Event Center is a 27.6-mile circular route. Another option is the Shaker Trace Wetlands loop from Ross, which covers 35.7 miles.
What are some of the longer road cycling routes available in the Forest Park area?
For those seeking longer rides, the Kroger Hills – Cincinnati Flying Pig Statues loop from Glendale is a substantial 50.3-mile route. Another excellent option is the Shaker Trace Wetlands loop from Ross, which spans 35.7 miles.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Forest Park?
Forest Park offers a refreshing escape with its dense woodland, creating a cool, shaded environment. While specific seasonal conditions can vary, the lush urban forest makes it enjoyable during warmer months. It's always a good idea to check local weather forecasts for optimal riding conditions.
Are there any waterfalls or lakes to see along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the area around Forest Park features natural attractions such as the scenic Buckeye Falls. You might also encounter Sharon Woods Lake, which can be a pleasant stop during your ride.
What are the typical elevation gains on road cycling routes in Forest Park?
Elevation gains in Forest Park vary, catering to different preferences. Easy routes like the Roadbike loop from Ross have moderate changes around 700 feet. More extensive moderate routes, such as the Shaker Trace Wetlands loop from Ross, can feature climbs of over 1,300 feet, offering a good workout.
Is Forest Park suitable for family-friendly road cycling?
Yes, with its range of easy and moderate routes, Forest Park can be suitable for family-friendly road cycling. Routes with mostly paved surfaces and moderate elevation changes, like the Roadbike loop from Ross, provide a pleasant experience for various skill levels, including families.
Where can I find information about parking or public transport access to Forest Park cycling trails?
Forest Park is an urban forest, and access points vary. For detailed information on parking facilities and public transport options to specific trailheads or access points within Forest Park, it is best to consult the official city resources. For Portland's Forest Park, you can find more information on the Portland Parks & Recreation website.
Most popular routes around Forest Park
Most popular attractions around Forest Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
