The best cycling routes around Cross Mountain
4.8
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542
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13
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Touring cycling around Cross Mountain features a network of greenway trails that follow natural waterways. The routes are characterized by gentle gradients, passing through urban parks and natural areas. The landscape includes riparian zones and open spaces, providing accessible cycling experiences on a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces.
Best touring cycling routes around Cross Mountain
- The most popular touring cycling route is Leon Creek Greenway Trail, a 33.2 miles (53.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours to complete. This route follows a scenic creek, offering a moderate cycling experience through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Salado Creek Greenway Trail, a difficult 46.5 miles (74.9 km) path. This extensive trail provides a challenging ride along the Salado Creek, featuring diverse natural surroundings.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Drinking Fountain at Fox Park – Leon Creek Greenway Trail loop from Six Flags Fiesta Texas, a 18.3 miles (29.5 km) trail leading through urban green spaces, often completed in about 1 hour 42 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Cross Mountain is defined by greenway trails, riparian corridors, and urban parklands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Cross Mountain are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Cross Mountain's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.9
(23)
65
riders
53.4km
03:02
190m
190m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride along the Leon Creek Greenway Trail, a 33.2-mile (53.4 km) route that offers a tranquil escape through western San Antonio. You will experience picturesque views of limestone bluffs and expansive wildflower fields, with the trail winding through dense stands of cottonwood and heritage trees. This journey involves a manageable 609 feet (186 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete, providing a substantial yet accessible cycling experience.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail features numerous well-maintained trailheads. These access points are equipped with essential amenities such as parking, water, and restrooms, making it easy to start your ride whether you plan a long excursion or a shorter section. The presence of bike police patrolling the trail also contributes to a safe and enjoyable environment for all users.
This greenway is a significant part of the larger Howard W. Peak Greenway Trails system, offering a connected pathway that keeps you away from urban traffic. As you cycle, you will pass by small ponds, like Buddy Calk Pond, which are known to attract various birds and local wildlife. The route also traverses several parks, including Eisenhower Park and Cathedral Rock Nature Park, adding to its diverse natural appeal.
5.0
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40
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74.9km
04:32
260m
260m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure along the Salado Creek Greenway Trail, a route that spans 46.5 miles (74.9 km) and features an elevation gain of 840 feet (256 metres). This extensive greenway offers a rewarding ride, estimated to take about 4 hours and 31 minutes. As you pedal, you'll experience a blend of natural and urban scenery, following the paved path alongside Salado Creek through dense hardwood forests and past serene wetland areas. Keep an eye out for the unique Morningstar Boardwalk, a 3,400-foot section that carries you directly over the wetlands.
Planning your visit to the Salado Creek Greenway Trail is straightforward, as there are numerous trailheads located along its length. These access points often provide convenient amenities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and bike racks, making it easy to start and finish your ride. The trail is designed primarily for safety and enjoyment, with most sections separated from car traffic, allowing you to focus on your journey through the varied landscapes.
The Salado Creek Greenway stands out for its unique combination of natural beauty and urban accessibility. While you navigate through the tranquil forests and wetlands, you might also catch glimpses of the San Antonio skyline from certain elevated points along the route. This trail provides a distinct opportunity to connect with nature and get a significant workout, all within the reach of the city, making it a notable destination for touring cyclists in the region.
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5.0
(19)
65
riders
25.3km
01:30
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(21)
103
riders
32.7km
01:53
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
37
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Upper Drury is a dirt alternative to the paved Leon Creek Greenway. It's a good option if you want to run laps on Blurred Lines.
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This spot is a crossroads of sorts. The paved Leon Creek Greenway connects to a number of different dirt singletrack trails, such as "Blurred Lines", which offer riders a bit of off-road technicality to their ride.
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Dwight D. Eisenhower Park is a 420-acre park with great hill country landscapes. It features 6 miles of trails, an observation tower, and BBQ and picnic facilities. Pets are allowed on leash, and hikers are encouraged to stay on designated trails and not disturb the natural environment.
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Cathedral Rock Nature Park offers a few trails, including paved and unpaved bike paths, with bridges and underpasses. Despite its central location, the park provides a great natural getaway. The park has benches, a playground, and amenities like bike racks, pavilions, and picnic tables.
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The trail winds through various landscapes, including limestone bluffs, wildflower fields, and areas with heritage trees. This provides a dynamic experience for nature enthusiasts. Paved and mostly flat, with gentle slopes, makes it suitable for the whole family.
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John James Park honors a 19th-century surveyor and rancher who played a significant role in San Antonio's development. Beyond his surveying contributions, James was also involved in the Battle of Salado Creek in 1842, a pivotal moment that thwarted an attempt to retake Texas by the Mexican Army.
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Known as a popular fishing spot among locals, Buddy Calk Pond is stocked with fish by Texas Parks and Wildlife. The pond is situated near the Buddy Calk Trailhead on the Leon Creek Greenway, making it very accessible.
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This section stretches for nearly 18 miles north of Loop 1604, offering some of the trail's most scenic views. Here, you'll find towering limestone bluffs, large pecan and live oak trees, and natural outcroppings lining the beautiful Salado Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cycling experience can I expect around Cross Mountain?
Touring cycling around Cross Mountain primarily features a network of greenway trails that follow natural waterways. These routes are characterized by gentle gradients, passing through urban parks and natural areas. You'll find accessible cycling experiences on a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, often through riparian zones and open spaces.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Cross Mountain area?
There are 11 touring cycling routes documented in the Cross Mountain area on komoot. These range from easy loops to more challenging long-distance options, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Cross Mountain offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. An excellent option is the Drinking Fountain at Fox Park – Leon Creek Greenway Trail loop from Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which is 29.5 km long and takes about 1 hour 42 minutes. Another easy choice is the Medicine Wall – Eisenhower Park loop from Shavano Park, covering 31.8 km.
What are some of the landmarks or points of interest I can see along the cycling routes?
Along the cycling routes, you can explore several natural and recreational areas. Notable highlights include the Salado Creek Greenway Trailhead, the Leon Creek Greenway and Vallejo Trails Junction, and Eisenhower Park. You might also pass through the serene Emilie and Albert Wilderness Park.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Cross Mountain?
The routes in Cross Mountain are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the well-maintained greenway trails and the accessible nature of the rides.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Cross Mountain area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, the Drinking Fountain at Fox Park – Leon Creek Greenway Trail loop from Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers a convenient circular option. Another is the Medicine Wall – Eisenhower Park loop from Shavano Park.
What is a good route for a longer, more challenging touring cycling experience?
For a more challenging and extensive ride, consider the Salado Creek Greenway Trail. This difficult 74.9 km path provides an extensive ride along the Salado Creek, featuring diverse natural surroundings and requiring approximately 4 hours 30 minutes to complete.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Cross Mountain?
Given the greenway and urban park nature of the routes, touring cycling in Cross Mountain is generally enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer mornings or evenings can be ideal to avoid peak heat. Winter can also be suitable on milder days.
Are the touring cycling routes in Cross Mountain suitable for dogs?
While the guide data doesn't explicitly state dog-friendly policies for each route, greenway trails and urban parks often permit dogs on leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations for areas like Emilie and Albert Wilderness Park or Eisenhower Park before you go.
Where can I find parking for the touring cycling routes?
Many of the greenway trails, such as the Leon Creek and Salado Creek Greenways, have designated trailheads with parking facilities. For routes like the Pumptrack – O.P. Schnabel Park loop from The University of Texas at San Antonio, parking is typically available at the associated parks or nearby urban areas.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on the Cross Mountain touring cycling routes?
You will encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, typical of greenway trails. The routes generally feature gentle gradients, making them accessible. The terrain often follows riparian corridors, passing through urban parks and open spaces, offering varied scenery without significant elevation challenges.
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