Peru Wildlife Management Area – Cole Street Conservation Area loop from Rice Sanctuary

If you're looking for a dedicated touring cycling route, the Peru Wildlife Management Area – Cole Street Conservation Area loop from Rice Sanctuary is likely not the best fit, despite its listing. This 14.6-mile (23.6 km) route, rated as moderate with 1304 feet (397 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hours and 39 minutes, traverses areas largely unsuitable for typical touring bicycles. It's a route better suited for those on foot or with robust mountain bikes, seeking a primitive outdoor experience rather than a smooth ride.

What to expect on Peru Wildlife Management Area – Cole Street Conservation Area loop from Rice Sanctuary

This route attempts to link areas with vastly different terrain. The Peru Wildlife Management Area is known for its rugged, primitive landscape with no formal trails, featuring uneven ground, rolling topography, and moderately steep slopes. You'll find dense forests and thick grasslands, making it challenging for touring bikes. While the Dorothy Frances Rice Sanctuary offers an extensive network of well-maintained trails, including a wide, grassy path that is mostly flat, even here the thick grass can pose difficulties for narrow tires. Expect a journey through diverse natural beauty, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and stunning foliage, but be prepared for significant off-road conditions that demand a different kind of bike and effort.

Planning your visit

Given the challenging terrain, planning for this route requires careful consideration of your equipment. Parking for the Dorothy Frances Rice Sanctuary is available off South Road. There are no specific permits mentioned for cycling these areas, but be aware that the Peru Wildlife Management Area is primarily for walking, hiking, and hunting, not cycling. The best time to visit for scenery would be spring for wildflowers or fall for foliage, but always be mindful of the conditions underfoot, especially after rain.

Trail details

• Distance: 14.6 miles (23.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 1304 feet (397 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 39 minutes