The best road cycling routes around Midway

Midway offers a variety of road cycling routes, with over 7 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging ascents.

Road cycling in Midway, nestled in the Heber Valley, features diverse terrain. You'll find a mix of rolling hills, flat country roads, and significant mountain climbs. Routes often boast well-paved surfaces, though some moderate and hard options may include unpaved sections, offering varied experiences for cyclists.

Yes, Midway is known for challenging climbs. A notable one is Empire Pass (Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway), which involves an 11-12 mile ascent with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, reaching an 8,740-foot summit. This route features sustained grades averaging 5-6%, with steeper sections up to 8-10%.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and Mount Timpanogos. The Granite Hill loop from Hanover provides varied landscapes. Routes around Deer Creek Reservoir offer picturesque views of the water and surrounding state parks. Cyclists on routes like Empire Pass will also experience beautiful transitions through aspen forests.

Yes, Midway offers options suitable for families and beginners. Routes around Deer Creek Reservoir, typically 7-9 miles, are often easy to moderate and provide spectacular views. The Forest Pathway loop from New Oxford is an easy 23.4-mile trail that can be completed in under two hours.

The best time for road cycling in Midway is typically from late spring through early autumn, when the weather is mild and mountain passes are clear of snow. Summer offers lush green scenery, while autumn brings vibrant fall colors. Winter conditions can make road cycling challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, Midway offers several longer loops for experienced riders. The Granite Hill loop from Hanover is a substantial 67.5-mile route. Another popular option is the Little Round Top – Fast scenic road loop from Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which covers 57.2 miles with notable elevation changes.

Beyond the cycling, you can explore unique attractions like the Homestead Crater, a geothermal hot spring inside a 55-foot-tall limestone cave, offering opportunities for soaking and swimming. Wasatch Mountain State Park and Jordanelle State Park also offer additional outdoor activities and scenic beauty. For more information on the Homestead Crater, you can visit visitutah.com.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Midway, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills to challenging mountain ascents, and the stunning panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains and Mount Timpanogos. The well-paved surfaces and variety of routes for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

Midway has several moderate routes perfect for intermediate riders. The Heber Valley Loop, a 33-mile route with 1500 feet of elevation gain, is an excellent option, navigating rolling country roads and skirting Deer Creek Reservoir. The Roadbike loop from Hanover is another moderate 49.8-mile route.

Absolutely. Many routes in Midway provide a balanced experience. For instance, the Heber Valley Loop combines rolling country roads with continuous views, while routes like the Granite Hill loop from New Oxford offer a mix of terrain with moderate elevation changes, allowing for both cruising and climbing.