The best cycling routes around Gem Lake
4.4
(72)
601
riders
66
rides
Touring cycling around Gem Lake, particularly the location near Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers a network of multi-use trails suitable for road cycling. The region is characterized by its connection to established state trails and proximity to various lakes, providing a generally flat and accessible terrain. These routes often feature scenic views of natural water bodies and parklands. The area is well-suited for cyclists seeking paved paths and connections to other regional attractions.
Best touring cycling routes around Gem Lake
- The…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.5
(4)
21
riders
16.4km
00:56
60m
60m
The Lake Links Trail offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience, guiding you along the scenic shores of White Bear Lake. You'll enjoy smooth paths and refreshing lake breezes,…
5.0
(1)
35
riders
38.2km
02:12
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
10
riders
41.2km
02:26
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
13
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
26.5km
01:32
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Gem Lake
Tips from the Community
As of 2026-06-03 Google Maps says it’s permanently closed.
0
0
It was getting late on my ride, I want to come back here and check it out one of these days.
1
0
White Bear Lake is known as Bde Maṭo Ská by the Native Dakota people, and they were known for using the lake's island as a source for making Maple syrup. In his book "Life on the Mississippi" (1883) Mark Twain described the lake as such: "The White-bear Lake is less known. It is a lovely sheet of water, and is being utilized as a summer resort by the wealth and fashion of the State. It has its club-house, and its hotel, with the modern improvements and conveniences; its fine summer residences; and plenty of fishing, hunting, and pleasant drives. There are a dozen minor summer resorts around about St. Paul and Minneapolis, but the White-bear Lake is the resort."
0
0
This beach is part of White Bear Lake County Park and connects to the Mark Sather Trail, which wraps around the west end of the lake. There is beach access, bathrooms, water, and parking here as well.
0
0
Saint Paul–Changsha China Friendship Garden is a beautiful scape with it's Chinese-style pavilions, koi pond, and lush plantings provide a calm, meditative backdrop. A perfect spot to pause, stretch, and take in the carefully designed landscape before continuing your journey.
1
0
A popular multi-use trail that connects St. Paul to the countryside north of the city. The Gateway State Trail is mostly paved with gentle grades, a great choice for a smooth and steady ride. You’ll pass through parks, woodlands, and open fields—getting a nice mix of urban and rural scenery along the way.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Gem Lake?
There are over 70 touring cycling routes around Gem Lake, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty, making them accessible for various skill levels.
Are the touring cycling routes around Gem Lake suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Gem Lake area, particularly near Saint Paul, Minnesota, is well-suited for beginners and families. Many routes utilize multi-use paved trails, offering generally flat and accessible terrain. An excellent option is the Gateway State Trail loop from Maplewood, known for its smooth surface.
What kind of landscapes and natural features will I encounter on these routes?
Touring cycling routes around Gem Lake often feature scenic views of natural water bodies and parklands. You'll frequently ride alongside lakes such as Lake Phalen and East & West Vadnais Lakes, and pass through areas with a mix of urban and natural landscapes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Gem Lake are designed as loops. For example, the Bruce Vento Regional Trail loop from Maplewood offers a circular path through varied scenery.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest along the cycling routes?
Beyond the beautiful lakes, you can explore the tranquil Saint Paul-Changsha China Friendship Garden, which offers Chinese-style pavilions and a koi pond. The routes also connect to popular multi-use paths like the Gateway State Trail.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Gem Lake?
The touring cycling routes around Gem Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved trails and the scenic views of the lakes and park systems.
How long do the touring cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration varies by route and your pace, but many popular routes are designed for enjoyable rides. For instance, the Lake Links Trail, which is 10.2 miles (16.4 km), typically takes about 55 minutes to complete.
Is the Gem Lake area suitable for advanced touring cyclists?
While the area primarily features easy to moderate routes, offering smooth surfaces and gentle elevation changes, there are no routes classified as 'difficult'. Advanced cyclists might enjoy combining multiple routes or extending their rides to cover longer distances within the interconnected trail network.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Gem Lake?
The region around Gem Lake in Minnesota is generally accessible for cycling during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when the trails are clear of snow and ice. The multi-use trails are well-maintained, offering pleasant riding conditions during these seasons.
Are there any specific trails that connect to other regional park systems?
Yes, the touring cycling network around Gem Lake is well-integrated with regional park systems. Routes like the Como Lake – Gateway State Trail loop from Maplewood demonstrate how these trails connect to broader networks, allowing for extended rides and exploration.
What is the typical elevation gain on touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Gem Lake are characterized by generally flat terrain. For example, a route like the Lake Phalen – Bruce Vento Regional Trail loop from Maplewood, covering 18.0 miles (28.8 km), has an elevation gain of approximately 120 meters, indicating a relatively gentle ride.
Most popular routes around Gem Lake
Most popular attractions around Gem Lake
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
