The best cycling routes in Davidson County
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Touring cycling in Davidson County offers a diverse landscape with extensive infrastructure for outdoor activities. The region features a commitment to protected green space, including numerous parks, natural areas, and an expansive greenway system. These greenways provide scenic routes through forests, along riversides, and past historic landmarks, while areas like Percy Warner Park offer varied cycling experiences with hilly terrains and woodlands. The Cumberland River and various lakes also contribute to the county's natural features, providing picturesque views for cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes in Davidson County
- The most popular touring cycling route is Salem Lake and Creek Greenway Loop, a 16.7 miles (26.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 38 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic paths around Salem Lake and along a creek greenway.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is High Point Greenway and Bicentennial Greenway Loop, an easy 15.2 miles (24.4 km) path. This route connects two major greenway systems, providing a smooth ride through varied landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Cascades Preserve loop from Quarry Road, a 43.6 miles (70.2 km) trail leading through a preserve, often completed in about 4 hours 10 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Davidson County is defined by extensive greenway systems, riverfront paths, and varied wooded and hilly terrains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy greenway rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Davidson County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Davidson County's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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24.4km
01:33
140m
140m
Cycle the High Point Greenway and Bicentennial Greenway Loop, an easy 15.2-mile route offering varied scenery and lake views.
52.4km
03:06
350m
350m
The Mountains to Sea Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience through North Carolina's Piedmont region, characterized by its rolling hills and a mix of rural scenery. You'll pedal past small farms and through wooded areas, enjoying the changing landscape. Keep an eye out for interesting landmarks like the Steam Locomotive 1894 at Tanglewood Park, adding a touch of history to your ride. This moderate route is a great way to experience a segment of the state's diverse terrain.
For this 32.5-mile (52.4 km) touring cycling route, with 1150 feet (351 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 3 hours and 6 minutes, planning is key. The route largely follows paved, low-traffic rural roadways, but be prepared for potential unpaved sections by checking specific details beforehand. Navigation can be tricky in some areas due to a lack of clear signage, so bring a GPS. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions.
This segment is part of the much larger NC State Bicycle Route #2, which spans over 700 miles across North Carolina. It's important to distinguish this dedicated cycling route from the hiking-focused Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The cycling route connects major cities and diverse ecosystems, from the mountains to the coast, offering a comprehensive cross-state journey for those looking for multi-day cycling adventures.
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83.0km
05:02
720m
720m
This touring cycling route offers a deep dive into North Carolina's history and diverse landscapes, taking you through rolling piedmont farm country and along the Yadkin River. You'll pass through Historic Bethabara Park, a preserved 18th-century Moravian settlement, and enjoy serene stretches along Mill and Minorcas creeks. Be ready for varied terrain, as the Bethabara Greenway sections can include asphalt, gravel, and even some steep hills.
Planning your ride requires a bit of foresight; the Shallow Ford State Historic Site is currently under development and closed until late 2026, so direct access isn't possible yet. This difficult 51.6-mile (83.0 km) loop, with 2359 feet (719 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 5 hours and 2 minutes, so an early start is recommended, especially if you want to avoid the midday sun.
The historical significance of this area is a major draw, with the route tracing parts of the Great Wagon Road and passing the Shallow Ford of the Yadkin River, a crucial crossing point for centuries. This extensive ride is best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a substantial day out, blending physical challenge with rich cultural exploration near Clemmons, NC.
35.3km
02:06
240m
240m
Cycle the moderate 21.9-mile Old Greensboro Road loop in High Point, featuring varied terrain and scenic views along the Deep River.
5.0
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11.9km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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35.8km
02:13
230m
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19.5km
01:15
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21.8km
01:26
140m
140m
This easy touring bicycle route, the Yadkin River loop from Clemmons, offers a delightful pedal through North Carolina's Piedmont region. You'll experience a mix of greenways and local roads, with scenic views along the Yadkin River, often winding through peaceful wooded areas and open fields. Keep an eye out for native grasslands and an oxbow near Tanglewood Park, which are home to diverse wildlife.
Covering 13.5 miles (21.8 km) with a modest 469 feet (143 metres) of elevation gain, this route takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it a perfect option for beginner touring cycling or a family-friendly outing. Most surfaces are paved, ensuring a smooth ride. Parking is generally available at various trailheads along the Yadkin River Greenway, some of which also provide restrooms and picnic areas.
The Yadkin River Greenway is notable for its accessibility and historical significance, with sections recognized as part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Interpretive signs along the way offer insights into the American Revolution. This route provides a great way to explore the natural beauty and historical context of the Yadkin Valley region, connecting parks and offering a variety of experiences.
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40.8km
02:29
380m
370m
The Bike loop from Bermuda Run offers a delightful touring cycling experience through North Carolina's rolling countryside. You'll pedal past open fields and areas near waterways, enjoying a mix of sun and shade that provides a sense of being far removed from populated areas. This route is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural features touring cyclists appreciate, with varied terrain that keeps the ride engaging.
Planning your Bermuda Run cycling routes is straightforward, though specific parking for this loop isn't detailed. Generally, the Bermuda Run area provides ample parking. For the best experience on this moderate 25.4-mile (40.8 km) loop with 1231 feet (375 metres) of elevation gain, plan your ride for a clear morning or afternoon, which should take about 2 hours and 29 minutes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
This particular route is part of a highly-rated network of Bermuda Run bike trails, known for their variety and connectivity. The region boasts multi-use paths and efforts to improve mapping, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for cyclists. You might even find connections to local amenities, enhancing your overall cycling adventure in Forsyth County.
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Tips from the Community
The home of the High Point Rockers! This stadium is known for its service and good atmosphere.
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This section of the Bicentennial Greenway passes through Gibson Park. This is a particularly lush part of the greenway, with some wetlands mixed in, too, thanks to the nearby river.
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The Bicentennial Greenway passes beneath Piedmont Parkway here. There's a small parking area that makes a great spot for starting — or ending — your run.
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Tanglewood Park is a great place to visit and get outdoors. The park is located next to the Yadkin River. There are trails all around the golf course for bikes, horses and hiking. There are also some mountain bike specific trails with berms, jumps and platforms. There are fishing ponds and a swimming pool area.
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This trial is specifically made for mountain bikers. There are several entrances that allow you to access and combine this trail with some of the others in Tanglewood Park. There is not much climbing at all but most of the trail is singletrack with a lot of fun tight curves.
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The Bicentennial Greenway is a great way to enjoy nature and connect different areas without having to get on a the road. It is a mix of paved and gravel paths with some boardwalks. The section through Gibson Park is really nice and green lush area with marshy wetlands next to the East Fork of the Deep River. The park has areas for picnics, baseball, soccer and hiking trails.
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This is a very nice greenway that passes through different neighborhoods and allows you to stay off the main roads and still ride your bike. It is a great way to get from High Point to Jamestown or even all the way to Greensboro by connecting to the Bicentennial Greenway.
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This lovely section of the greenway passes through a forest and then across a very nice wooden bridge. The views over the lake are nice and it is a good way to stay off the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Davidson County?
Davidson County offers over 30 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 20 routes rated as easy, 8 as moderate, and 3 as difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Davidson County?
Davidson County's touring cycling routes feature a diverse landscape. You'll primarily encounter extensive greenway systems, many of which are paved and follow lush forests and riverbanks. Routes along the Cumberland River, Harpeth River, and around lakes like Percy Priest and Radnor Lake offer picturesque views. For those seeking more challenge, areas like Percy Warner Park and Beaman Park State Natural Area provide hilly terrains and woodlands.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families in Davidson County?
Yes, Davidson County is very family-friendly, with many easy routes perfect for beginners. The extensive greenway system, such as the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Stones River Greenway, offers flat, paved paths ideal for a relaxed ride. The Harpeth River Greenway is another excellent option, providing a smooth, flat path through woods and along the river. For a specific easy route, consider the High Point Greenway and Bicentennial Greenway Loop.
What are some notable landmarks or scenic spots along the cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by significant landmarks. You can enjoy picturesque views along the Cumberland River, including crossing the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for stunning Nashville skyline vistas. Routes around Percy Priest Lake and Radnor Lake provide serene natural settings. The greenways often lead through historic areas and natural parks like Long Hunter State Park, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying diverse landscapes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Davidson County?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Davidson County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Salem Lake and Creek Greenway Loop provides a scenic circular path around Salem Lake and along a creek. Another option is the Cascades Preserve loop from Quarry Road, which is a longer, more challenging circular route.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Davidson County?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Davidson County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable. Winters are typically mild, making year-round cycling possible, though some days may be too cold or wet.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling routes?
Many greenways and parks in Davidson County are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before you go. The extensive greenway system offers plenty of space for you and your leashed companion to enjoy a ride together.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Davidson County?
Parking is generally available at trailheads and access points for the various greenways and parks throughout Davidson County. Major parks like Shelby Bottoms, Stones River, and Edwin Warner Park typically have dedicated parking lots. For specific routes, checking the starting point on komoot will often provide details on nearby parking facilities.
Are there places to rent bikes or find guided tours in Davidson County?
Yes, Nashville, within Davidson County, has several options for bike rentals and guided tours. Companies like Green Fleet Bikes and Shelby Avenue Bicycle Co. offer a range of bikes, including e-bikes, city bikes, and road bikes. They also provide guided tours that explore Nashville's neighborhoods, downtown, and greenways, offering a unique way to experience the city's highlights and history.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Davidson County?
The touring cycling experience in Davidson County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive and well-maintained greenway system, the scenic riverfront paths, and the varied terrain that offers options for all ability levels. The blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility is frequently highlighted as a major draw.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Davidson County offers routes with significant elevation changes and longer distances. The Historic Bethabara & Shallow Ford State Historic Site loop from Clemmons is a difficult route spanning over 50 miles with substantial climbing. Areas like Percy Warner Park also provide more varied and technical terrain for those looking for a tougher ride.
Where can I find more information about parks and natural areas in Davidson County?
For more detailed information about the numerous parks, nature centers, and natural areas in Davidson County, you can visit the official Metro Nashville Parks and Recreation website. They provide resources on various outdoor activities and facilities. You can explore their offerings at nashville.gov/departments/parks/nature-centers-and-natural-areas.
Most popular routes in Davidson County
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