The best road cycling routes around Chesapeake

Chesapeake offers a selection of over a dozen road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find one easy route and eleven moderate routes, providing diverse options for your ride.

Yes, Chesapeake has several options suitable for families. The Cabell County Courthouse loop from Huntington is an easy route from our collection. Additionally, the paved Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is a multi-use path with facilities, and parks like Northwest River Park and Oak Grove Lake Park offer bike paths and scenic, less challenging rides.

For scenic views, consider routes that take you through the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, offering unique natural surroundings. The Elizabeth River Trail provides views along the Elizabeth River. The South Norfolk Jordan Bridge also offers a unique experience, elevating riders 169 feet above the Elizabeth River with panoramic views.

Yes, many routes in Chesapeake are designed as loops. For example, the Next to the Memorial Park loop from Huntington is a moderate 37 km route. The Cabell County Courthouse – Next to the Memorial Park loop from Huntington offers a longer 46 km option. Oak Grove Lake Park also features a popular 1.5-mile circular trail around the lake.

Chesapeake's generally mild climate makes it suitable for road cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be warm and humid, while winters are typically mild, though occasional cold snaps can occur. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many popular cycling areas in Chesapeake offer parking and facilities. The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, for instance, features a bicycle repair/maintenance station, restrooms, and picnic areas. Parks like Northwest River Park and Oak Grove Lake Park also provide parking and amenities for visitors.

Chesapeake is known for its generally flat terrain, making it ideal for road cycling. You'll find riverine paths and routes through natural areas, with minimal elevation changes on most rides. For example, the Cabell County Courthouse – Next to the Memorial Park loop from Huntington has an elevation gain of around 350 meters over 34 km, which is typical for the area.

Absolutely. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, and over 220 species of birds. Cycling along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Oak Grove Lake Park is also known for its butterflies and songbirds.

Yes, for more experienced riders looking for a longer challenge, the Next to the Memorial Park – Cabell County Courthouse loop from Spring Valley High School covers nearly 68 km. Additionally, the Norfolk to Virginia Beach metric century loop is a moderate 62.2-mile (100 km) route connecting Norfolk and Virginia Beach, offering diverse urban, coastal, and park scenery.

For more information on outdoor activities and attractions in Chesapeake, you can visit the official Chesapeake tourism website. They offer resources on various outdoor pursuits, including biking. You can explore their outdoor section at visitchesapeake.com/chesapeake-uncovered-blog/outdoor/.

Given the flat terrain and potential for longer rides, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sunscreen, a helmet, basic repair kit, and appropriate cycling attire are also recommended. Snacks are useful for longer routes, and a camera can capture the scenic views and wildlife.