The best road cycling routes in DeKalb County

DeKalb County's road cycling routes offer a diverse landscape, prominently featuring unique granite monadnocks like Stone Mountain and Arabia Mountain. You'll encounter varied terrain, from rolling hills to areas with steeper climbs, traversing woodlands, wetlands, and peaceful riverbanks. The Roadbike loop from Smithville, for instance, showcases the county's natural areas with varied terrain.

Yes, DeKalb County offers several routes suitable for longer rides. For example, the Hawkins Hill loop from Milton is a challenging 42.9-mile (68.9 km) route with significant elevation gain, taking over 3 hours to complete. Another option is the Roadbike loop from Smithville, which covers 37.6 miles (60.6 km).

Generally, most multi-use trails in DeKalb County, such as the Arabia Mountain PATH (AMP) trail, do not require specific cycling permits or fees for public access. However, Stone Mountain Park, which offers extensive paved roads for cycling, does have an entrance fee for vehicles. It's always a good idea to check the specific park or trail website for the most current information on any potential fees or regulations before your visit.

DeKalb County is rich in natural beauty. The Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, accessible via the Arabia Mountain PATH (AMP) trail, offers stunning vistas of granite outcrops and unique ecosystems. Stone Mountain Park also provides scenic views, including the massive granite monadnock itself. Routes like the Roadbike loop from Center Hill Marina provide scenic views of the local landscape, including granite outcrops and natural preserves.

While all routes listed in this guide are moderate in difficulty, DeKalb County's extensive multi-use trail networks, such as sections of the Arabia Mountain PATH (AMP) trail and the paved roads within Stone Mountain Park, often provide flatter, dedicated paths suitable for families. These trails are designed for various users, including cyclists, and offer a safe environment away from heavy traffic. It's recommended to check specific trail details for elevation and length to ensure they match your family's comfort level.

Many of the major trail systems in DeKalb County, such as the Arabia Mountain PATH (AMP) trail, have designated trailheads with convenient parking. Examples include the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Lorraine Trailhead, and De Castro Trailhead for the AMP system. Stone Mountain Park also offers ample parking for visitors. It's advisable to check the specific trailhead or park website for parking availability and any associated fees.

DeKalb County offers good road cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring is particularly beautiful when the unique diamorpha plants bloom, carpeting the granite outcrops in crimson. Fall also provides pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Summers can be warm and humid, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred. Winters are generally mild, allowing for cycling, though some days may be cooler.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in DeKalb County are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride without needing to retrace your path. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Smithville, the Roadbike loop from Center Hill Marina, and the Rebel Hill loop from Warren County. These loops allow you to experience diverse landscapes and return to your starting point.

There are over 6 road cycling routes documented in DeKalb County, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. All of these routes are rated as moderate in difficulty, providing engaging rides through the region's unique landscapes.

Road cyclists often praise DeKalb County for its diverse terrain, which includes both rolling hills and more challenging climbs, set against the backdrop of unique granite monadnocks and extensive multi-use trail networks. The mix of natural and urban-adjacent scenery, along with dedicated efforts to preserve greenspace, contributes to a rewarding cycling experience. The Rock Island State Park loop from Great Falls Dam is another popular route that showcases the region's varied landscape.

While all routes in this guide are rated moderate, some offer significant elevation gain and longer distances that can challenge advanced riders. For instance, the Hawkins Hill loop from Milton features over 846 meters of elevation gain over 42.9 miles, providing a demanding ride. The varied terrain, including rolling hills and steeper sections on trails like the Arabia Mountain PATH, can also offer a good workout.

Public transportation access to some of DeKalb County's major bike trails is available, though it may require some planning. For example, Stone Mountain Park is accessible via MARTA bus routes, which can get you close to the park entrance. The Arabia Mountain PATH (AMP) trailheads might require a combination of public transport and a short ride or walk. It's recommended to check MARTA schedules and routes for specific trailheads you plan to visit.