The best cycling routes in Brown County State Park
4.8
(3)
57
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling in Brown County State Park offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, deep ravines, and dense woodlands. The park spans nearly 16,000 acres of rugged terrain, often referred to as the "Little Smokies" due to its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. This topography provides varied elevation changes, creating both challenging climbs and scenic descents for cyclists. The area features extensive forests and numerous scenic viewpoints.
Best touring cycling routes in Brown County State Park
- The most popular touring cycling route is Weed Patch Hill Fire Tower – Hoosiers Nest Shelter loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, an 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to complete. This moderate route winds through forested areas, offering a mix of ascents and descents.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, an easy 7.1 miles (11.5 km) path. This route leads through natural preserves with gentle elevation changes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Weed Patch Hill Fire Tower – Hesitation Point loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, a 13.7 miles (22.1 km) trail leading through forested hills and past notable overlooks, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Brown County State Park is defined by its rolling hills, extensive forests, and scenic overlooks. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging climbs.
- The routes in Brown County State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. More than 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Brown County State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
15
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
34.3km
02:40
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
riders
18.6km
01:38
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Tips from the Community
Nice place for camping, cycling and hanging out with family and friends
1
0
The fire tower is a must-see. It's best to climb to the top and see how far you can see. Access to the dome was closed a few years ago. Originally, two fire towers were visible, one in the Hoosier National Forest and one in the Morgan Monroe Forest.
1
0
Nice place for camping, cycling and hanging out with family and friends
1
0
Yellowwood Lake is 133 acres and was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Swimming is not permitted in the lake, however it is known for its excellent fishing.
0
0
A tower built with a stone base, and log cabin-style construction above that provides views in all directions over the park.
0
0
Hesitation Point is the name of both a peak and an official overlook pullout right off of West Gate Entrance Road. This point has an elevation of 1,003 feet and you can get additional views of the area from the trail that leaves from this parking area.
0
0
The Hoosiers Nest Shelter is a small two-story log cabin. It is located on a large open field with picnic tables. There is also a vault toilet and drinking water on site.
0
0
A fire tower that was built in the 1930's on Weed Patch Hill which is the highest point in the park. The tower can be climbed by visitors up to the entrance of the main deck where there are some nice views over the park.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Brown County State Park?
Brown County State Park offers 15 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. These routes navigate through the park's characteristic rolling hills and dense woodlands.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Brown County State Park?
Yes, there are 4 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. A great option is the Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, which is 7.1 miles (11.5 km) long and features gentle elevation changes through natural preserves.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders in Brown County State Park?
For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, Brown County State Park has 2 difficult touring cycling routes. The Hesitation Point – Hoosiers Nest Shelter loop from Nashville is a demanding 12.6 miles (20.2 km) route with significant elevation changes and panoramic views.
What are some family-friendly touring cycling options in Brown County State Park?
For families, routes with lower difficulty and shorter distances are ideal. The North Tower Lookout loop from Nashville is an easy 6.6 km (4.1 miles) route that offers a pleasant ride without extensive climbs, making it suitable for a family outing.
Does Brown County State Park offer circular touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Brown County State Park are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Weed Patch Hill Fire Tower – Hoosiers Nest Shelter loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, a moderate 8.8 miles (14.2 km) path that winds through forested areas.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
The park is known for its scenic beauty. Along your rides, you might encounter notable viewpoints like Hesitation Point, Weed Patch Hill, and West Overlook. You can also cycle past beautiful lakes such as Strahl Lake and Ogle Lake.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Brown County State Park?
The best time for touring cycling in Brown County State Park is typically during spring and fall. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides stunning foliage colors. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winters can be cold with possible snow, making cycling less ideal.
Where can I park when visiting Brown County State Park for touring cycling?
Brown County State Park offers various parking areas throughout the park. Specific trailheads often have designated parking lots. It's advisable to check the park's official map or signage upon arrival to locate the most convenient parking for your chosen route.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Brown County State Park?
The touring cycling experience in Brown County State Park is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the park's diverse terrain, from rolling hills to dense woodlands, and the rewarding scenic viewpoints found along the routes.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes available?
Yes, Brown County State Park features 9 moderate touring cycling routes. These routes offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility. An example is the Weed Patch Hill Fire Tower – Hesitation Point loop from The Ten O'Clock Line Nature Preserve, which covers 13.7 miles (22.1 km) with a mix of ascents and descents.
Most popular routes in Brown County State Park
Most popular attractions in Brown County State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
