The best road cycling routes around Durham
4.7
(4)
289
riders
34
rides
Road cycling routes around Durham offer a diverse landscape, ranging from rugged coastlines and rolling hills to extensive woodlands and historic routes. The region is characterized by varied terrain, including former railway lines converted into traffic-free paths and scenic roads through traditional countryside. Cyclists can explore riverside paths, open fields, and areas with significant historical landmarks.
Best road cycling routes around Durham
- The most popular road cycling route is Bidwell Park – Rural Road to Paradise loop from Chico,…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
20
riders
36.5km
02:04
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
13
riders
73.2km
03:22
660m
660m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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8
riders
56.8km
02:54
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
21.4km
01:16
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4
riders
31.4km
01:27
30m
30m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
If you go through Paradise, you go up and down, at least four times, just on an old Rollercoaster 🎢
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A truly amazing canyon, easily accessible from Chico. In spring, it's a wildflower explosion. There are several trails. Long pants are a plus, as there are rattlesnakes. It's still worth it!! The basalt rock through which the river flows has a special name: Lovejoy Basalt. It looks a bit like Krog from the Marvel Comics.
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Every year at the last weekend in April, lot's of different tours with lot's of different people. 💓
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There is a parking area and viewing area here at the cliffs overlooking Big Chico Creek. The trails heading down to the water are best done on foot, but the views from the parking lot are still great.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Durham?
There are over 30 road cycling routes around Durham, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.
What types of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Durham?
Road cycling around Durham features a mix of rolling hills, coastal paths, and extensive woodlands. Many routes follow former railway lines, providing traffic-free paths, while others traverse scenic roads through traditional countryside and along riverside paths.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, Durham offers several challenging routes for experienced road cyclists. For instance, the Paradise Rollercoaster Road – View of Lake Oroville loop from Chico is a difficult 75-mile (120.8 km) route with over 3,900 feet (1,200 meters) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours 40 minutes to complete.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Durham?
Yes, Durham provides options suitable for families. The region's network includes easy, family-friendly paths, often utilizing former railway lines that offer steady gradients and traffic-free riding through woodlands and open fields.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Durham?
The routes in Durham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 200 road cyclists. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from scenic river views to lush forests, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different ability levels.
Can I find moderate-difficulty road cycling routes in Durham?
Absolutely. A significant portion of Durham's road cycling routes are classified as moderate. For example, the Bidwell Park – Rural Road to Paradise loop from Chico is a popular moderate route, spanning 38.4 miles (61.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1,796 feet (547 meters), taking about 2 hours 56 minutes.
Are there any attractions or points of interest along the road cycling routes?
Yes, many routes offer scenic views and pass by points of interest. You might encounter natural features like Bidwell Park or the North rim trail entrance. Some routes also incorporate dedicated cycle paths like the Bruce Road Bike Path Construction.
What is a good moderate route for a shorter ride?
For a moderate, shorter ride, consider the Cliffs over Big Chico Creek – Bidwell Park loop from Chico. This route is 10.4 miles (16.7 km) long and can typically be completed in about 2 hours 10 minutes, leading through parkland.
Are there any routes that offer varied terrain for a longer moderate ride?
Yes, the The Beach – Five Mile loop from Chico is a top favorite among local road cyclists. This moderate 22.3 miles (35.9 km) path offers varied terrain and can be completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
What kind of natural landscapes can I explore while road cycling in Durham?
Durham's road cycling routes allow you to explore diverse natural landscapes, including lush forests, scenic river views, and open fields. The region is known for its varied terrain, providing a rich outdoor experience.
How can I find routes that are suitable for different fitness levels?
The road cycling network in Durham offers options for various ability levels. You can find easy, family-friendly paths, numerous moderate routes, and challenging long-distance trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
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