The best road cycling routes around Milligans
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riders
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Road cycling routes around Milligans traverse a landscape characterized by rolling terrain and historical landmarks. The region features a network of roads that connect small towns and offer views of the countryside. Cyclists can expect varied gradients, from gentle inclines to more challenging ascents towards local summits. The area's natural features include loughs and open fields, providing a diverse backdrop for road cycling.
Best road cycling routes around Milligans
- The most popular road cycling route is Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
2
riders
42.3km
01:45
290m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
37.8km
01:35
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3
riders
39.3km
01:57
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
38.8km
01:33
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Milligans
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The views are stunning and the snow was exciting too
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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There is a great view from the car park, but even better, park up your bike and take the short trail to the hiking viewpoint. There you can marvel at the panoramic views across County Fermanagh and County Monaghan. Take a seat in the oversized chair and enjoy. Especially lovely at sunrise and sunset.
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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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Carnmore, or Carn Rock as it's known locally, is a scenic viewpoint on the western edge of Sliabh Beagh. The name Carnmore roughly translates to "big burial mound". In Irish mythology, Carnmore is believed to be the burial place of Bith, son of Noah. Cessair, who was a great leader of the first inhabitants of Ireland, was said to be a daughter of Bith.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Milligans?
There are 10 road cycling routes documented around Milligans in this guide. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 classified as easy and 4 as moderate.
Are there any beginner-friendly road cycling routes in Milligans?
Yes, Milligans offers several easy routes suitable for beginners. One such option is the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones, which is 26.3 miles long and connects the villages of Newbliss and Rockcorry with gentle gradients.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Milligans?
Road cycling in Milligans features a diverse landscape. In Northeast Tennessee, routes often include climbs towards Roan Mountain, offering expansive mountain vistas, and scenic views around Watauga Lake. In Gladeville, you'll find picturesque countryside with rolling hills, winding backroads, and exhilarating descents, characteristic of Middle Tennessee.
Are there any routes that offer elevated views or pass by natural landmarks?
Absolutely. The View from Bessy Bell Summit – Carnmore Lough loop from Clones is a moderate route that includes an ascent to Bessy Bell Summit, providing elevated views. It also passes by Carnmore Lough. Other natural features in the broader region include Lough Antrawar and Lough Corry.
What historical sites can I see while cycling around Milligans?
Several routes incorporate historical sites. For instance, the Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones leads through significant historical landmarks such as the Clones Round Tower and Clones 'Wee' Abbey. The region also has connections to sites like the Milligan Depot and Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park via the Tweetsie Trail, though that is a rail-trail.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Milligans area?
Yes, many of the routes around Milligans are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones and the Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Clones, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Milligans?
The region offers enjoyable cycling conditions across multiple seasons. Early summer is particularly vibrant in Northeast Tennessee, with rhododendron blooms on routes towards Roan Mountain. Generally, spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and scenic beauty, though the specific 'best' time can depend on personal preference for foliage or warmer weather.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while road cycling?
The diverse natural settings around Milligans, including sprawling forests and quiet coves, offer potential for wildlife sightings. The broader East Tennessee region, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest, is known for its rich biodiversity, providing a chance to observe local fauna, especially in quieter, rural sections of routes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Milligans?
Road cyclists who have explored Milligans with komoot often praise the varied terrain, which includes both rolling hills and more challenging ascents, as well as the scenic loughs and historical sites. The routes offer a good mix for different ability levels, making it an engaging area for many.
Are there any dedicated cycling paths or greenways in the Milligans region?
While this guide focuses on road cycling, the broader region does offer dedicated paths. For example, the Tweetsie Trail, a 9.6-mile rail-trail connecting Johnson City and Elizabethton, is suitable for biking. In Gladeville, the Providence Greenway and Cedar City Trail at Don Fox Park also provide options for cycling away from road traffic.
What are the options for parking when accessing road cycling routes in Milligans?
While specific parking details for each route are best checked locally, many routes originate from towns like Clones, where public parking facilities are typically available. For routes near natural attractions or trailheads, designated parking areas are often provided to accommodate visitors.
Can I access road cycling routes in Milligans using public transport?
Public transport options can vary significantly by specific location within the Milligans region. For routes starting in larger towns or villages, local bus services might offer connections. However, for more rural starting points, personal vehicle transport is often more convenient for reaching the trailheads.
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