The best road cycling routes in Dade County

Dade County's road cycling routes are predominantly flat, characteristic of its subtropical climate. While most routes offer easy, level riding, some areas like the Rickenbacker Causeway feature slight elevation changes, providing a bit more challenge. You'll find routes traversing coastal areas, unique ecosystems like the Everglades, and areas with dense tree canopies.

There are over 35 road cycling routes in Dade County, offering a range of difficulties. You'll find 7 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 8 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, Dade County offers several family-friendly options. The Blue Goose Hollow Park – Walnut Street Bridge loop from Lookout Mountain is an easy 17.6-mile (28.4 km) trail that leads through parklands and urban landscapes, suitable for a relaxed family ride. The flat and paved Chattanooga loop via Cameron Hill is also a popular choice for its accessible terrain.

Dade County's routes offer diverse natural beauty. You can find stunning viewpoints and even waterfalls like Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls. The region is known for its unique ecosystems, including the Everglades and coastal areas, providing opportunities to see diverse wildlife and landscapes.

Thanks to its subtropical climate, Dade County is suitable for road cycling year-round. However, the cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (roughly November to April) are generally preferred, offering more comfortable temperatures and less humidity compared to the summer months.

Absolutely. For experienced riders looking for a longer challenge, the Point Park Entrance Gate – New York State Monument loop from Point Park is a difficult 103.7-mile (167 km) route with significant elevation changes. Another option is the Roadbike loop from Higdon, a moderate 79.3-mile (127.6 km) ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to urban greenways, and the well-maintained routes that cater to different ability levels. Over 500 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Dade County's varied terrain.

Yes, many of the routes in Dade County are designed as loops. For example, the Walnut Street Bridge – Tennessee Riverwalk loop from Reflection Riding's Kiddie Trail Parking Lot offers scenic views along a riverwalk and through urban areas. Another popular loop is the Roadbike loop from Reflection Riding's Kiddie Trail Parking Lot, which is a moderate 69.5-mile (111.8 km) ride.

For additional information and official bike trail maps provided by the county, you can visit the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces website.

Many routes in Dade County offer opportunities to see local landmarks. The Old Cutler Trail, for instance, winds past Matheson Hammock Park, Fairchild Tropical Garden, and Pinecrest Gardens. The Commodore Trail connects to the Old Cutler Trail and passes by Alice Wainwright Park, the Vizcaya Museum, Kennedy Park, Peacock Park, and The Barnacle Historic State Park.

Dade County offers unique experiences like cycling through the Everglades on paths such as the Shark Valley Loop Road, where you can encounter wildlife in a flat, easy-to-ride environment. The Rickenbacker Trail/Causeway provides stunning views of Biscayne Bay and beaches, including the notable William Powell Bridge, which is the highest 'hill' in Miami-Dade County.

Yes, Dade County is known for its beautiful coastal routes. The Rickenbacker Trail/Causeway offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean as it traverses Key Biscayne. Additionally, coastal roads like A1A and Collins Avenue provide scenic rides with ocean vistas.