Oh, sunny skies. Paved roads curving through foliage painted with the soft pastels of southern blossoms. A warm breeze brushing against your skin as you pedal freely, the world unfolding before you - isn’t it magical to explore Raleigh by bike? I’m smitten by the allure of two wheels under the broad expanse of North Carolina's blue sky, and if you're reading this, I bet you are too.
Riding a bike might be the very definition of freedom. It’s soaking in the slow bloom of spring, the bright songs of summer mornings, the autumnal wonder with leaves crunching under your wheels, and even the stark beauty of winter in Raleigh. And like every local knows, the city's cycling routes offers all the charm and variety that make Raleigh so special. From bustling urban centers to tranquil nature retreats, there's a little bit of everything to discover in our radiant city, and there's no better way to do it than from the seat of your trusty bike.
Here are some of my favorite cycling routes for a languid afternoon ride, a brunch rendezvous, an afternoon workout, or a delightful way to run errands around town.
1. Capital Area Greenway
An undoubted favorite, the Capital Area Greenway is a beloved highlight for cyclists. It's a sumptuous network of trails, cycling through which feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Spanning over a hundred miles across Raleigh, it welcomes riders of all ages and abilities.
The Crabtree Creek Trail, one of the jewels of the Greenway, is an exquisite path that will have you meandering through parks, over quaint bridges, and even alongside shopping malls. There's much to appreciate with its thoughtful blend of nature and neighborhood exploration. And if you're up for some history, the Historic Yates Mill County Park is a shimmer on the Raleigh map and features an operational gristmill - a majestic whisper of yesteryears you won't want to miss on your two-wheeled adventure.
2. Art to Heart Corridor
For city-lovers like myself, the Art to Heart Corridor, starting from the North Carolina Museum of Art and ending in downtown Raleigh, is the true manifestation of a city ride done right. It’s a seven-mile stretch of vibrant hues, the charm of local architecture, and yes, plenty of art. And I promise you, the stretch along the outdoors of the museum will have you considering art in new ways. It’s a soulful ride, one that makes your heart flutter alongside the rhythm of your pedaling.
3. Neuse River Trail
In all honesty, it's not a complete list of Raleigh’s best cycling routes if we leave out Neuse River Trail. This picturesque path takes you along the Neuse River for about 27 miles. For those in love with nature: savannah like areas, lush wetlands, broadleaf forests, and meandering water bodies, this route is your calling. The long stretch is great for the cycling enthusiasts who want to clock in some miles, while its breathtaking view provides the perfect landscape for those leisurely bikers who wish to pause often, savoring the ambience one pedal at a time.
4. Umstead State Park
For adventurous souls, Umstead State Park presents an exhilarating challenge with a medley of gravel and dirt tracks. Put your off-road biking skills to the test and savor the thrill of traversing this treasured state park reserve. Thrill aside, the park is also a haven for wildlife, promising you encounters with our four-legged neighbors.
5. Raleigh Boulevard
Raleigh Boulevard is arguably one of the best ways to experience the rich heritage of Raleigh first hand. This popular city route whisks you past varied landmarks, from the Victorian-inspired Historic Oakwood neighborhood to the culinary heavens of downtown Raleigh. This route fuses the rhythmic cycle of a city's life with the stillness and beauty of its architecture. Make sure to stop by the charming bakeries and cafes along the way and fuel up on the local delicacies.
Cycling in Raleigh is more than a means of getting from point A to point B; it's a love letter to our city. It's delighting in the waving fronds of the Spanish oak trees, the intoxicating fragrance of local eateries springing from nowhere, the clink of glasses carrying across the street from a Sunday brunch, the echo of laughter from the park. It's feeling connected to a rhythm much larger than us, and even on the fastest ride, slowing down to appreciate every bit of it.
So, tune up your bikes, fasten your helmets, and get ready to discover Raleigh anew. Whether you're a local or a newcomer to the fascinating cityscape of Raleigh, we're all explorers at heart. And when you're on your bike, every ride is an adventure and every stop a tale waiting to be told and heard. Is there a sight more lovely than Raleigh basking under the golden hours of the day or adorned by the twinkling city lights under the twilight sky? I leave you to decide as you embark on your next two-wheel journey.
Here's to experiencing Raleigh, the city that pulsates with life, the city that welcomes everyone into its embrace, and the city we call ours, one pedal at a time. I can't wait for you to discover your favorite routes, secret spots, and the stories you gather along the way. Don't forget to share with the rest of us!
Stay curious, stay adventurous. Happy cycling!
- Naomi Davis
