The best road cycling routes in St. Croix County

St. Croix County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 60 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 39 easy routes and 29 moderate routes, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

Road cycling in St. Croix County features a diverse landscape. You'll encounter scenic riverways, rolling hills, and varied terrain, including oak woodlands and pine plantations. While many routes offer moderate elevation gains, there are also flatter sections, particularly along the St. Croix River.

Absolutely. The region is known for its natural beauty. You can enjoy rides along the St. Croix River, a designated National Scenic Riverway, or explore the unique "S" curves on Rustic Road. The Stillwater Lift Bridge – Duluth Junction loop from Stillwater offers picturesque views, incorporating the historic Lift Bridge and river crossings.

Yes, the St. Croix River Crossing Loop is a notable option. This route allows you to cross the St. Croix River via the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, which is now dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists, and also utilizes the modern St. Croix Crossing Bridge. Routes like the Stillwater Lift Bridge – Duluth Junction loop from Stillwater specifically highlight this experience.

Beyond the scenic riverways, you can explore various natural attractions. The region boasts the St. Croix River, known for its granite cliffs and high bluffs. You might also encounter areas like the Casey Lake Wildlife Area or the Lakefront Park Pier. Wisconsin's oldest state park, Interstate State Park, offers dramatic basalt cliffs and unique glacial potholes, providing stunning views of the Dalles of the St. Croix River.

Yes, St. Croix County offers several easy road cycling routes suitable for families. Many of the routes are loops, providing a convenient starting and ending point. For example, the Lake McKusick Boardwalk – Duluth Junction loop from Stillwater is an easy 24.1-mile route that offers a pleasant ride for various skill levels.

Yes, for those who enjoy combining their ride with a local stop, the Coons Hill – Hop and Barrel Brewery loop from I-94 & Carmichael Rd (St. Croix Co) is a popular choice among local cyclists. This moderate 36.7-mile loop offers varied terrain and the opportunity to visit a local brewery.

The road cycling experience in St. Croix County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 13 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic beauty of the St. Croix River, and the well-maintained routes that offer options for all ability levels.

For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Stillwater Lift Bridge – Stillwater Lift Bridge loop from Stillwater is a moderate 53.8-mile route with significant elevation gain, offering a more demanding ride. Other moderate routes like the Lone Mound loop from River Falls also provide a good workout.

While road biking can be enjoyed in various seasons, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions. Spring brings blooming landscapes, summer provides warm weather, and fall showcases vibrant foliage, making these seasons ideal for exploring the county's scenic routes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in St. Croix County are designed as loops, providing convenient starting and ending points without needing to retrace your path. Examples include the Duluth Junction – Lake McKusick loop from Stillwater and the Twin Lakes loop from I-94 & Carmichael Rd (St. Croix Co).

St. Croix County has numerous easy road cycling routes, perfect for a relaxed ride. Many routes starting from Stillwater, such as the Duluth Junction – White Bear Lake loop from Stillwater, are rated as easy. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and moderate distances.