The best gravel rides around Ames
4.9
(10)
92
riders
15
rides
Gravel biking around Ames, Iowa, is characterized by gently rolling terrain and extensive agricultural landscapes. The region features a network of unpaved county roads, offering opportunities for both shorter excursions and long-distance routes. These routes traverse open countryside, providing varied surfaces suitable for gravel bikes. The landscape includes fields, forests, and river valleys, with the South Skunk River and Ioway Creek passing through the area.
Best gravel bike trails around Ames
- The most popular gravel bike trail is San Paio – Ancient Forest Path loop from Santiago de Compostela, a 20.3 miles (32.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 5 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Gran Camiño Gravel Path – Ponte Paradela loop from O Milladoiro, a difficult 24.6 miles (39.6 km) path. This route offers a mix of terrain and takes approximately 2 hours 50 minutes.
- Local gravel bikers also love the The Ponte Vella de Arriba – Gran Camiño Gravel Path loop from Santiago de Compostela - Daniel Castelao, a 24.1 miles (38.9 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 35 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Ames is defined by open countryside, unpaved roads, and agricultural landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, including some challenging gravel trails.
- The routes in Ames are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 11 reviews. More than 70 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Ames's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
37
riders
90.8km
06:20
1,680m
1,680m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
26
riders
32.8km
02:05
510m
510m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
39.2km
02:50
710m
710m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Located directly next to the church with great old trees in different shapes
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A very beautiful stage with very varied paths
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Along with the Pazo da Albariña manor house, the Pazo do Cotón stands out in the townscape. It is located on the Camino Real (Real Road) to Fisterra and was built between the 17th and 18th centuries. At the Porta da Capela, it spans the road with three arcades, and the upper wall is crenellated. The first settlements in the Negreira area were located at the strategically important ford over the Río Tambre, as well as on the main road to the coast (from Grandimirun, now Brandomil, to Aquis Celenis, now Caldas de Reis), and on the other hand, the riverside road along the Tambre, which connects the interior with the coastal region around Noia. Pre-Roman activities can be traced throughout the A Barcala area. The settlement of Nicraria Tamara is mentioned in Roman times, during which time silver mines were also exploited here. In 876, Negreira passed into the possession of the Compostelaan bishop Sisando by royal decree. In 979, Normans raided the Galician coast, and the town was wiped out. After the threat from the Normans and Moors was overcome, the town was rebuilt in 1113. The Catholic Monarchs granted the town a royal privilege known as the Fuero Real, which secured Negreira's independence from the Compostelaan archbishop. Charles V renewed the privilege in 1520.
1
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Very nice park to relax in after arriving in Santiago and visiting the cathedral.
1
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charming black walk of Santiago
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Ames?
The gravel biking routes around Ames are primarily characterized by gently rolling terrain and open agricultural landscapes. You'll find an extensive network of unpaved county roads, offering varied surfaces suitable for gravel bikes.
Are there challenging gravel bike routes available in Ames?
Yes, Ames offers several challenging gravel bike routes. For instance, the Ponte Maceira Stone Bridge – Ponte Maceira loop from Zas is a difficult 56.6-mile (91.1 km) route with significant elevation gain, taking approximately 7 hours 24 minutes to complete. There are 12 difficult routes in total.
Are there any long-distance gravel biking options near Ames?
Absolutely. If you're looking for a longer ride, the Ponte Maceira Stone Bridge – Ponte Maceira loop from Zas covers 56.6 miles (91.1 km), making it a substantial outing for experienced gravel bikers.
What are some moderate gravel bike trails for those looking for a balanced ride?
For a balanced experience, consider the Pathway Through Vineyards – Sanctuary of Escravitude loop from O Milladoiro. This moderate 21.3-mile (34.2 km) path offers a mix of terrain and can be completed in about 2 hours 25 minutes. Another option is the Enchanted forest – San Paio loop from San Lázaro, a 19.1-mile (30.8 km) route through varied landscapes.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the routes in Ames?
The komoot community highly rates the routes in Ames, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 18 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the open countryside, and the accessibility for different skill levels, noting the mix of moderate to challenging options.
Are the gravel bike routes around Ames typically loop trails?
Yes, many of the popular gravel bike routes around Ames are designed as loops. For example, the Ponte Paradela – Gran Camiño Gravel Path loop from Santiago de Compostela - Daniel Castelao is a 46.9 km loop, and the Gran Camiño Gravel Path – Ponte Paradela loop from O Milladoiro is a 39.6 km loop, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What kind of attractions can I see near the gravel biking routes in Ames?
While gravel biking, you'll be close to several interesting attractions. You could visit the historic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral or explore the Historic Centre of Santiago de Compostela. Natural highlights include the Carballeira de San Lourenzo forest and the View of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela from Monte do Gozo.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the gravel trails?
Yes, the region offers scenic spots. The View of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela from Monte do Gozo provides a notable vista. Many routes also traverse open countryside, offering expansive views of the agricultural landscapes.
How many gravel biking routes are available in the Ames area?
There are 19 gravel biking routes available around Ames, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Ames?
Given the agricultural landscapes and gently rolling terrain, spring and fall are generally ideal for gravel biking in Ames. The weather is typically milder, and the scenery is vibrant, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Ames?
While there are no routes specifically designated as 'easy' in our data, the region's 'gently rolling terrain' and 'accessible for different skill levels' suggest that some of the moderate routes, such as the Pathway Through Vineyards – Sanctuary of Escravitude loop from O Milladoiro, could be suitable for families with some biking experience.
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