The best gravel rides around Sherman

Gravel biking around Sherman, Texas, features rolling North Texas terrain with varied elevation. You'll encounter tree-lined parks, open fields, and sections near natural features like the Red River Valley. Specific areas like the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge offer flatland views, marshes, and wetlands with dedicated gravel roads, while other routes might include loose gravel roads and scenic views, sometimes passing by oil rigs.

The routes highlighted in this guide are primarily for experienced riders seeking challenging, longer routes, with all six listed tours rated as 'difficult'. However, areas like the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge feature gravel roads such as 'Wildlife Drive' and 'Bennet Lane Gravel Road' which are generally considered easy-to-moderate and suitable for a more relaxed ride.

While riding, you can explore areas like the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, known for its expansive flatlands, marshes, and opportunities for wildlife observation and birdwatching. Lake Texoma is also just 15 minutes away, offering scenic views. Some routes may pass by the River Trail or the Tracy Road Gravel Route, which are popular highlights.

Yes, Sherman offers several long-distance gravel routes. For example, the River Trail – Tracy Road Gravel Route loop from New Milford is 78.5 miles (126.3 km), and the River Trail – Bulls Bridge loop from New Milford covers 70.1 miles (112.9 km), both providing extensive riding through varied terrain.

The best seasons for gravel biking in Sherman are typically spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, making early morning rides essential. Winters are generally mild, but be mindful of potential mud after rain, especially on unpaved sections.

While the specific routes in this guide are rated difficult, areas like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge offer easier, flatter gravel roads such as 'Wildlife Drive' and 'Sandy Point Road' that could be suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Policies regarding dogs vary by location. While some natural areas might allow leashed dogs, it's always best to check the specific regulations for places like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge or LBJ National Grasslands before you go, as rules can change and may differ for wildlife protection areas.

For areas like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge and LBJ National Grasslands, designated parking areas are typically available at visitor centers or specific trailheads. For other routes, parking might be found near the starting points in towns or at public access points. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.

Generally, permits are not required for casual gravel biking on public roads or designated trails in areas like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge or LBJ National Grasslands. However, it's always a good idea to check the official websites of these specific locations for any updated regulations or special permits that might be needed for certain activities or areas.

While the more remote gravel routes might not have amenities directly on the trail, you'll find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants in Sherman itself. For areas like Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge or LBJ National Grasslands, it's recommended to pack snacks and water, and plan to visit establishments in nearby towns before or after your ride.

The gravel bike trails around Sherman feature significant elevation changes due to the rolling North Texas terrain. For example, the River Trail – Tracy Road Gravel Route loop from New Milford has an elevation gain of over 1600 meters, and the Lake Waramaug State Park – River Trail loop from New Milford has over 800 meters of ascent, indicating a challenging ride with varied climbs and descents.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes around Sherman are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride back to your starting point. Examples include the River Trail – Tracy Road Gravel Route loop from New Milford and the Bulls Bridge – River Trail loop from Pawling, providing diverse landscapes without needing to retrace your path.