The best cycling routes around Saxon
4.8
(5)
13
riders
5
rides
Touring cycling routes around Saxon feature a landscape characterized by gentle hills and riverine paths, offering a mix of urban greenways and longer trails through developed areas. The region includes several rail trails, providing flat and accessible surfaces for cyclists. Elevation changes are generally modest, making it suitable for various fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Saxon
- The most popular touring cycling route is Drayton Mills, Cottonwood, and River Birch Trails, a 10.8 miles (17.4 km) trail that…
Last updated: October 4, 2026
4.8
(5)
6
riders
17.4km
01:12
90m
90m
The Drayton Mills, Cottonwood, and River Birch Trails offer a delightful touring cycling experience, blending natural beauty with urban accessibility. You'll pedal through serene wooded sections, follow the scenic Lawson's…
2
riders
9.74km
00:34
40m
40m
The Mary Black Rail Trail and Duncan Park Path offers a unique blend of urban and natural cycling experiences in Spartanburg. You'll start on the smooth, paved Mary Black Rail…
54.8km
04:41
590m
590m
The Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop offers a dynamic touring cycling experience through the diverse landscapes of Croft State Park. You'll wind through dense mixed forests of oak, pine, and…
4
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
9.97km
00:37
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Tips from the Community
The Drayton Mills Trail is a paved, smooth path that winds through wooded areas and passes by two small ponds. It offers a shaded and easy hike within an urban setting. The trail runs past the historic Drayton Mill and leads to Adam’s Park.
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Drayton Mills, originally built in 1902, underwent a significant transformation over a century later. Once a bustling textile mill, it has been converted into a striking apartment complex in the Romanesque Revival style. This well-preserved piece of history is now a beautiful and intriguing site along the Drayton Mills Trail, making it well worth a visit during your hike.
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The River Birch Trail is a picturesque path that runs alongside Lawsons Fork Creek, offering charming views of the surrounding nature. This trail connects with the Edwin M. Griffin Park trails, providing a peaceful and easy hike. The route features a variety of terrains, including packed dirt, wooden boardwalks, and paved sections.
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The Rail Yard is a small community park located along the Mary Black Rail Trail. The park features various recreational areas, including an amphitheater, a playground, picnic tables, and a bike park.
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The Rail Yard is a great community park along the MBF Rail Trail. The park has an amphitheater, picnic areas and a bike park.
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The Cottonwood Trail is a mellow path that follows Lawson Fork Creek. This is a family-friendly area that is well shaded. In the summer, this area is as green as it gets.
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Mary Black Rail Trail was a very successful rail-to-rail project and one of the most popular places to hike and bike in Spartanburg. This 2-mile-long paved path also has bikes that visitors can rent from the B-Cycle station at the trailhead at Henry and Union streets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Saxon?
There are 6 touring cycling routes available in Saxon, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Saxon?
The routes in Saxon feature a landscape characterized by gentle hills and riverine paths. You'll find a mix of urban greenways and longer trails through developed areas. Many routes are rail trails, providing flat and accessible surfaces, though some, like the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop, include more significant elevation changes.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Saxon?
Yes, Saxon offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Drayton Mills, Cottonwood, and River Birch Trails is an easy 17.4 km route connecting local greenways. Another accessible option is the Mary Black Rail Trail and Duncan Park Path, which is just under 10 km.
What are some notable natural attractions or points of interest along the cycling routes in Saxon?
Along the cycling routes in Saxon, you can explore several natural attractions. The River Birch Trail and Cottonwood Trail are prominent features, often integrated into routes like the Drayton Mills trails. You might also encounter Duncan Park Lake and the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, offering scenic natural settings.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in Saxon?
For those seeking a challenge, the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop is a difficult 54.8 km route with significant elevation gain, extending through varied terrain. It's the most demanding option among the listed tours.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Saxon?
The touring cycling routes in Saxon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 4 reviews. Cyclists often appreciate the variety of terrain, from flat rail trails to routes with more elevation, and the blend of urban and natural areas.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists in Saxon?
Yes, there are several loop options. The Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop is a challenging 54.8 km loop. For a moderate option, consider the Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Drayton, which covers 26.0 km through urban and natural areas.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in Saxon?
The duration varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy routes like the Mary Black Rail Trail and Duncan Park Path can be completed in about 34 minutes, while a moderate route like the Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Drayton takes around 1 hour 35 minutes. The most challenging route, the Palmetto Trail: Croft Passage Loop, typically requires about 4 hours and 40 minutes.
Can I find routes that combine urban and natural scenery in Saxon?
Absolutely. Many routes in Saxon offer a blend of urban and natural environments. For example, the Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Drayton leads through both developed areas and natural sections, providing a diverse cycling experience.
Are there any rail trails for cycling in Saxon?
Yes, rail trails are a defining feature of touring cycling in Saxon. These trails, such as sections of the Mary Black Rail Trail, offer flat and accessible surfaces, making them suitable for a relaxed ride.
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