The best road cycling routes around Smithton
4.4
(13)
60
riders
4
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Smithton, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many roads and scenic vistas, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort. That's where we come in: komoot's community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've curated a shortlist of the very best to save you the guesswork.
Road cycling around Smithton is all about diverse terrain and stunning backdrops. You'll find everything from coastal roads along Duck Bay to routes winding through lush agricultural fields and the dramatic edges of the Tarkine wilderness. Expect a mix of well-paved surfaces and some mixed terrain, with options ranging from gentle, rolling hills to more undulating paths with significant elevation changes. It’s a region that truly offers something for every road cyclist.
For a fantastic introduction to the area, we'd start with the popular Memorial Hospital Station loop from Wabash at Arabelle, an easy 24.1 miles (38.8 km) ride that offers gentle elevation gains and a taste of the local scenery. If you're looking for a longer, more challenging day out, the Zion Fellowship Park loop from Millstadt is a moderate 56.5 miles (90.9 km) route that will truly stretch your legs. With over 60 road cyclists already exploring Smithton with komoot, you're in good company – so get out there and discover your next favorite ride!
Last updated: June 4, 2026
6
riders
39.2km
01:58
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(4)
21
riders
29.5km
01:20
100m
100m
The MetroBikeLink Trail loop from Eckert's Garden Center offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through a mix of natural beauty and local landmarks. You'll pedal past the charming orchards and farmlands of Eckert's Family Farm before transitioning into sections with woods, urban neighborhoods, and even a glimpse of Southwestern Illinois College. With its easy difficulty, smooth asphalt surface, and gentle 326 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain over 18.3 miles (29.5 km), this route is ideal for a relaxed ride that takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes.
For planning your visit, you can easily park at Eckert's Trailhead, which serves as a great starting point for this loop. The trail system is well-maintained, featuring wide, paved surfaces that ensure a comfortable ride. Along the MetroBikeLink Trail, you'll find convenient amenities such as water fountains and rest shelters, making it easy to take breaks as needed.
This route is notable for its excellent connectivity, linking seamlessly from Eckert's Garden Center to the broader MetroBikeLink Trail system. This allows you to extend your ride to other destinations like the Fairview Heights MetroLink Station or Scott Air Force Base if you're looking for a longer adventure. The trail also prioritizes safety with bridges that carry cyclists over major streets and railroad crossings, minimizing interaction with vehicle traffic.
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90.9km
04:12
490m
490m
The Zion Fellowship Park loop from Millstadt is a substantial road cycling route that takes you through the quiet, rolling countryside surrounding the town. While Zion Fellowship Park itself is a serene spot with lush greenery and winding paths for walkers, this route keeps you on the public roads, offering a classic rural Illinois cycling experience. You'll encounter varied terrain, with open fields giving way to tree-lined stretches, providing a consistent and engaging ride for those who enjoy longer distances.
To tackle this moderate 56.5-mile (90.9 km) loop, plan for approximately 4 hours and 11 minutes in the saddle, accumulating 1612 feet (491 metres) of elevation gain. Starting directly from Millstadt, you'll find general parking within the town. Spring and fall are ideal seasons for this ride, offering pleasant temperatures, but always ensure you carry enough water and are visible to traffic on the rural roads.
This route stands out as a solid option for road cyclists in the St. Clair County area looking for a significant workout without venturing too far. It provides a good sense of the local agricultural landscape and offers a different perspective than the dedicated walking trails within Zion Fellowship Park. Consider it a great way to explore the broader Millstadt vicinity on two wheels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Smithton
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Smithton?
There are currently 3 road cycling routes around Smithton listed on komoot, all categorized as easy. These routes offer a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Smithton?
The Smithton region, known as the 'Gateway to the Tarkine wilderness,' offers varied terrain. While many routes feature mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for road cyclists, you can expect some gentle elevation changes. For example, the Zion Fellowship Park loop from Millstadt covers 39.2 km with about 227 meters of elevation gain, providing a good mix of flat sections and mild climbs.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Smithton?
Yes, all the road cycling routes currently listed for Smithton are circular. This allows for convenient starting and ending points. You can enjoy loops like the Memorial Hospital Station loop from Wabash at Arabelle, which is approximately 38.8 km long, or the shorter MetroBikeLink Trail loop from Swansea at about 23.7 km.
What are the best times of year for road cycling in Smithton?
Smithton offers enjoyable road cycling for much of the year. The region experiences diverse weather, but generally, spring through autumn (September to May) provides the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather, especially given Tasmania's climate.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Smithton?
The komoot community rates road cycling in Smithton highly, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 8 ratings. Cyclists often praise the region's stunning natural landscapes, from ancient rainforests to rugged coastlines, which provide a beautiful backdrop for rides. The variety of routes, catering to different fitness levels, is also frequently appreciated.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Smithton?
Yes, all the road cycling routes currently featured for Smithton are rated as easy, making them suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Routes like the MetroBikeLink Trail loop from Swansea, at just under 24 km with minimal elevation, are great options for a family outing.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along road cycling routes near Smithton?
While specific routes may vary, the Smithton area is rich in natural beauty. As the 'Gateway to the Tarkine wilderness,' you're close to Australia's largest cool-climate rainforests, thundering west coast beaches, and towering eucalypt forests. You might also catch glimpses of the Duck River Estuary or views towards the Hunter Island Group. The region is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and pristine air quality, particularly near Kennaook / Cape Grim.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes around Smithton?
While the majority of routes listed are easy, there is a moderate option for those seeking more of a challenge. The longer Zion Fellowship Park loop from Millstadt extends to approximately 90.9 km with about 491 meters of elevation gain, offering a more demanding ride through the picturesque landscape.
Is parking available near road cycling trailheads in Smithton?
Specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages on komoot. However, as a regional hub, Smithton generally offers various parking options within the town and at popular access points to natural areas, making it convenient to start your cycling adventure.
What is the typical distance for road cycling routes in Smithton?
The road cycling routes around Smithton vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter rides, such as the MetroBikeLink Trail loop from Saint Clair County at around 24.5 km, or longer options like the Memorial Hospital Station loop from Wabash at Arabelle, which is approximately 38.8 km. There's also a moderate route stretching over 90 km for more ambitious cyclists.
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