Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN CLEVELAND
Planning a cycling vacation in Cleveland? You’re in for a treat. This city punches way above its weight when it comes to scenic bike paths, waterfront views, and urban adventures on two wheels. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting into bike touring, Cleveland offers a mix of lakefront trails, forest escapes, and city routes that’ll make your pedals spin with joy. Let’s break down the top cycling and bike touring routes across Cleveland so you can map out the perfect itinerary for your trip.
Explore Lakefront paths
Cleveland sits right on Lake Erie, and that means one thing: incredible lakefront rides. The Lakefront Bikeway is a local favorite, stretching over 17 miles and linking key points like Edgewater Park, downtown Cleveland, and Euclid Beach Park. It’s the perfect blend of urban sights and waterside serenity. Plus, you’ll ride past public art, beach spots, and the famous Cleveland script signs—perfect for those Instagram moments.
If you’re up for a longer ride, hop on the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which intersects with the lakefront near downtown. This path extends for over 80 miles all the way into the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It’s mostly flat and crushed limestone, so it’s great for bikepacking or casual touring with scenic stops.
Best spots along the lakefront
Edgewater Park: Bike-friendly beach with skyline views.
Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve: A hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Voinovich Bicentennial Park: Great spot for photos and a quick rest stop.
Euclid Beach Park: Classic amusement park vibes meet chill cycling paths.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame area: Cruise past iconic architecture and downtown energy.
The best part? These routes are well-maintained, relatively flat, and ideal for riders of all levels. Just pack sunscreen, snacks, and a camera—you’ll want to stop often.
Ride through historic neighborhoods
Beyond the waterfront, Cleveland’s urban neighborhoods offer a tour through time and culture. The Detroit–Shoreway area is packed with murals, indie cafes, and historic homes that make it one of the coolest zones to bike through. From there, cruise into Ohio City, where bike lanes take you past breweries, West Side Market, and brick-lined streets full of charm.
Don’t miss the Tremont neighborhood either. It's home to Lincoln Park and some of the city's oldest churches—ideal for slow pedaling and soaking in the vibe. The small hills here add a fun challenge without being exhausting, and you'll find plenty of bike racks outside cafes if you're ready to refuel.
Must-see neighborhoods and routes
Detroit–Shoreway: Murals, Gordon Square Arts District, and Lakefront access.
Ohio City: West Side Market, Great Lakes Brewing, and foodie heaven.
Tremont: Tree-lined streets, Lincoln Park, and architecture tours.
Little Italy: Art galleries, gelato stops, and charming alleys.
University Circle: Museums, botanical gardens, and wide boulevards for easy riding.
These neighborhoods are connected by Cleveland’s growing network of protected bike lanes and bike boulevards. It’s easy to design a loop that combines multiple districts, especially if you’re the type who bikes for both the miles and the meals.
Adventure into the parks and forest trails
When you're craving green space and wooded routes, Cleveland delivers with the Emerald Necklace—a system of parks and trails that wrap around the city and beyond. The Rocky River Reservation is a must for cycling tourists, offering a mix of paved and gravel paths that wind through cliffs, riverside views, and thick forests. Start at the Puritas trailhead and follow the Rocky River all the way to Lake Erie. You’ll pass under bridges, spot deer, and enjoy wide paths that welcome riders of all skill levels.
Another top pick is the Bedford Reservation. This one’s got some decent climbs and fast descents, perfect for cyclists who want a bit of a workout. Scenic overlooks, creeks, and shady tree tunnels make this a paradise for day riders.
Top forest and park rides
Rocky River Reservation: Gentle riverside paths with a back-to-nature feel.
Bedford Reservation: Hilly terrain with waterfalls and wooded trails.
Big Creek Parkway: Family-friendly ride with picnic areas and paved paths.
North Chagrin Reservation: Great for spotting wildlife and forest immersion.
South Chagrin Reservation: Ride through hemlock-lined trails and quiet natural settings.
These park systems are part of Cleveland Metroparks, known locally as "The Emerald Necklace." They're well-signed, often looped, and frequently patrolled—so they're safe for solo riders, families, or full-on bikepacking excursions. Bring plenty of water and your sense of adventure!
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