The best cycling routes around Amherst

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Amherst, offering a diverse range of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 300 times.

Yes, Amherst offers several easy, flat, and paved routes perfect for beginners and families. The Norwottuck Rail Trail is a prime example, connecting Amherst with Northampton and Hadley, and is suitable for all skill levels. Overall, there are 3 easy routes available for touring cyclists.

Touring cycling around Amherst features a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of dedicated rail trails, scenic country roads, and areas with varied elevation, including hills. The region's unique geology, shaped by glacial activity, contributes to this varied terrain, offering options from flat paths to more challenging routes with significant climbs.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Lac des Seize-Îles – Aerobic Corridor loop from Saint-Rémi-d'Amherst is a difficult 68.4-mile (110.0 km) trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 8 hours to complete. This route is ideal for experienced touring cyclists looking for an extensive ride.

Free parking is available at various points along popular trails like the Norwottuck Rail Trail, specifically in South Amherst, Hadley, and Northampton. Many other routes also have designated parking areas at their starting points or nearby access points.

Amherst and its surroundings offer several natural attractions. You can visit the Sandy Beach on Rivière Rouge, or cycle past the historic La Conception Covered Bridge. The region also features areas like Mount Holyoke Range State Park and the Amherst College Wildlife Sanctuary, which offer diverse landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Amherst are designed as loops. For example, the La Source Natural Spring – Corridor Aérobique Bridge loop from Saint-Rémi-d'Amherst is a moderate 25.1-mile (40.3 km) path with varied terrain. Another option is the La Conception Covered Bridge – Rivière Rouge Rapids loop from Brébeuf, a 14.3-mile (23.0 km) trail.

The touring cycling routes in Amherst are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 19 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, which includes both dedicated rail trails and scenic country roads, as well as the options available for different ability levels.

Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic beauty. For instance, the View of the Rivière Rouge – Halte Municipale loop from Brébeuf offers picturesque vistas. Additionally, Mount Nonotuck within the Mount Tom Range provides fantastic views of 'the Oxbow,' a dramatic bend in the Connecticut River.

Amherst offers great cycling opportunities across multiple seasons. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, especially on shaded trails. While winter cycling is possible, trail conditions can vary, so it's always best to check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, the town of Amherst has a permanent subcommittee dedicated to bicycling. This committee focuses on public awareness for safe cycling, reviews relevant laws, and recommends the development of commuter and recreational routes and parking facilities. You can find more information on the town's official website: amherstma.gov/Bicycling.

Yes, Amherst has a good selection of moderate routes. The Lake Mercier – Devil's River Bridge loop from Parc d’escalade et de randonnée de la Montagne d’Argent is a moderate 23.6-mile (38.0 km) route that includes varied terrain and moderate climbs, perfect for cyclists with good fitness looking for a rewarding ride.