The best road cycling routes around Arial
4.8
(5)
89
riders
11
rides
Road cycling routes around Arial feature varied terrain, including moderate climbs and flatter sections suitable for different skill levels. The region is characterized by a mix of open landscapes and areas with some elevation, as indicated by routes traversing features like Glassy Mountain and Lake Oolenoy. Many routes are designed as loops, providing continuous cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes around Arial
- The most popular road cycling route is Lake Oolenoy loop, a 43.4 miles (69.8 km) trail thatβ¦
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5
riders
69.8km
03:16
840m
840m
Cycle the moderate 43.4-mile Lake Oolenoy loop in Pickens, SC, for scenic lake views and mountain backdrops near Table Rock State Park.
2
riders
50.3km
02:20
590m
590m
Cycle the moderate 31.3-mile Doodle Trail Loop through South Carolina's varied landscapes, featuring rolling hills and wooded areas.
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25.0km
01:16
380m
380m
Cycle the Glassy Mountain loop, a moderate 15.5-mile road route with 1232 feet of elevation gain and panoramic views from the summit.
4.8
(5)
61
riders
33.4km
01:30
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
62.3km
02:52
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Arial
Tips from the Community
Overall, this route is beautiful. It is mostly on backroads so traffic isn't too bad. There is a short section on Hwy 11 where cars speed by at 55 to 65 mph, but there is a bike lane. Do this route if you are not overly anxious about cars sharing the road. Some of the roads are bumpy and one short section had no shoulder and rumble strips gouged into the white line. I will say that every driver was considerate waiting behind until safe to pass me on curves. Most gave me a wide berth when they passed which is much appreciated! You will be pedaling uphill and going fast downhill, so it is lots of fun if that is your thing. Use a bike with a wide selection of gears. You won't need wide tires but don't use your racing slicks either. Stop at Hagood Mill and don't miss the waterfall at the beginning, and the tea company at the end, of Carrick Creek Rd. The ride through the Nine Times Preserve is lovely. After the ride, I had lunch - a chicken, mushroom and cheese crepe - at The Full Plate Creperie Eatery in downtown Pickens. Delicious!
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Grant Meadow Overlook is a scenic pull-off along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway in Pickens, South Carolina. This is a great place to stop on your ride to sip some water and snap some photos of the fantastics views of Table Rock over the open meadow.
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Lake Oolenoy is a 67-acre lake located in Table Rock State Park. From the lake, you can get a nice view of Table Rock Mountain. The lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
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Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve is a 374-acre tract of land that features its namesake, Eastatoe Creek. The preserve is also home to several rare species of ferns and wildflowers.
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The Doodle Trail is an 8.5-mile rails-to-trails path stretching from Easley to Pickens. The former rail system was called the "Doodle Line" because the freight engine could not be turned around and had to run backwards, resembling the motion of a doodlebug.
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The Doodle Trail is an 8.5-mile rails-to-trails path stretching from Easley to Pickens. The former rail system was called the "Doodle Line" because the freight engine could not be turned around and had to run backwards, resembling the motion of a doodlebug.
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Glassy Mountain sits at an elevation of 1,703 feet and from the summit offers panoramic views of the Piedmont and Blue Ridge Escarpment.
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This is a short but charming road segment between two ponds. The trees and the tranquility make you feel like in a movie.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Arial?
Road cycling routes around Arial offer a diverse landscape, featuring a mix of open areas and sections with notable elevation changes. You'll encounter moderate climbs, particularly around features like Glassy Mountain and Lake Oolenoy, alongside flatter stretches, providing a varied experience for cyclists.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Arial?
Yes, Arial offers several easy road cycling options. For instance, the Doodle Trail loop from The Silos is an easy 25.4 km route with moderate elevation gain, and the Doodle Trail loop from Arial is another easy 25.7 km option. In total, there are 3 easy routes available.
What are some challenging road cycling routes in Arial?
For those seeking more of a challenge, Arial features routes with significant elevation. The Lake Oolenoy loop is a moderate 69.8 km route with over 835 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial workout. There is also one route specifically graded as difficult among the 11 available.
Are there any loop road cycling trails in Arial?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Arial are designed as loops, providing continuous cycling experiences without needing to retrace your path. Popular examples include the Lake Oolenoy loop, the Doodle Trail Loop, and the Glassy Mountain loop.
What can I see along the road cycling routes in Arial?
As you cycle around Arial, you'll find various points of interest. The Doodle Trail itself is a notable feature, and you might pass by Glassy Mountain. Depending on the season, you could also spot picturesque Sunflower Fields by the Roadside, adding to the scenic beauty of your ride.
How long are the road cycling routes in Arial?
The routes vary significantly in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter options like the Glassy Mountain loop at 25.0 km, which takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Lake Oolenoy loop, extend to nearly 70 km and can take over 3 hours to complete.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Arial?
The road cycling experience in Arial is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes both challenging climbs and enjoyable flatter sections, as well as the well-designed loop routes that offer continuous riding pleasure.
Are there any specific mountains or lakes featured in Arial's road cycling routes?
Yes, the region's topography includes prominent natural features. Many routes incorporate sections around Glassy Mountain, known for its moderate climbs. The Lake Oolenoy loop is another popular route that features significant elevation gain as it traverses the area around the lake.
How many road cycling routes are available in Arial?
There are 11 road cycling routes documented around Arial on komoot, offering a range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 3 easy, 7 moderate, and 1 difficult route.
What is the typical elevation gain on road cycling routes in Arial?
Elevation gain varies across routes, reflecting the region's mixed terrain. Shorter, easier routes like the Doodle Trail loop from The Silos have around 244 meters of ascent. More challenging routes, such as the Lake Oolenoy loop, can feature over 835 meters of elevation gain, providing a significant climbing experience.
Can I find routes that combine scenic views with a good workout?
Absolutely. Routes like the Glassy Mountain loop offer moderate climbs that provide both a physical challenge and opportunities for scenic views of the surrounding area. The diverse landscape ensures that you can enjoy beautiful vistas while getting a good workout.
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