The best cycling routes around Sussex

There are over a dozen touring cycling routes available in Sussex, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate paths to explore.

The routes in Sussex are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.96 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from quiet country roads to river paths and local park trails, making for diverse and enjoyable rides.

Yes, Sussex offers several easy routes perfect for beginners. An example is the Bark River Bridge – Lisbon Park loop from Sussex, which is 15.7 km long and features a mix of paved and unpaved sections through parkland.

Many of the easier routes in Sussex are suitable for families, especially those with lower elevation gains and through park areas. The Menomonee Park loop from Menomonee Falls is a good option, offering a 15.8 km ride through a scenic park environment.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Sussex are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Bark River Bridge loop from Merton is a 16.8 km circular trail that takes you through open countryside.

Route durations vary depending on distance and difficulty. Shorter, easy routes like the Bark River Bridge – Lisbon Park loop from Sussex can be completed in under an hour, while moderate routes such as the Wooden Bridge Over Trail – Grede Park (Parade Memorial) loop from Meadowbrook Park & Ride might take around 2.5 hours.

Many routes in Sussex start from locations with accessible parking. For example, the Wooden Bridge Over Trail – Grede Park (Parade Memorial) loop begins from Meadowbrook Park & Ride, which typically offers parking facilities.

Sussex's touring cycling routes offer diverse scenery, including gentle rolling hills, river valleys, open countryside, and wooded areas. You'll often find yourself cycling along river paths and through local parklands.

Yes, several routes pass by notable points of interest. You might encounter highlights such as Menomonee Park, the scenic Merton Millpond and Bark River, or the historic Bark River Bridge. Some routes also incorporate sections of the Lake Country Trail (Route of the Badger).

The gentle terrain of Sussex makes it suitable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days. Winter cycling is also possible, though conditions may vary.

While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring routes during off-peak hours or on weekdays can often lead to a more tranquil experience. Many of the routes utilize quiet country roads and less-trafficked park trails, offering a peaceful ride.

For touring in Sussex, it's advisable to bring essentials like water, snacks, a repair kit, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Given the varied terrain, a bike suitable for both paved and unpaved sections is recommended.