Ride Into Adventure: Winston-Salem’s Best Cycling Routes

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Did you know Winston-Salem is home to one of America’s most exciting cycling scenes? With beautiful trails, vibrant cycling events, and a welcoming community, the city offers space for fun, fitness, adventure, and connection. From peaceful greenways to world-class races, Winston-Salem invites every rider to experience the joy and freedom of life on two wheels.

Riders of all ages and abilities are welcomed into a community that celebrates fitness, fun, and the simple joy of being outdoors. Discover why Winston-Salem’s cycling scene is one of its most charming treasures.

A City on the Move: Winston-Salem’s Growing Cycling Culture

Cycling has grown in popularity throughout the world. In the US, the highest percentage of cyclists is between the ages of 25 and 44. Of that 52% are male and 48% female. The emphasis on health and environmental benefits has likely fueled the growth. Cities adding networks of bike paths have made the activity safer and more enjoyable.

Winston-Salem has seen a surge in cycling growth. The city’s Department of Transportation has begun counting riders in four locations to gauge the need for additional public spending on bike trails, lanes, and other cyclist-friendly improvements.

Even now, Winston-Salem provides numerous off-road bike routes and trails for residents and on-street bike lanes on many thoroughfares. The greenways that wind through the city are open to cyclists. They provide riding conditions that range in difficulty from easy to moderate.

The climate, terrain, and the city’s enthusiasm for biking have made Winston-Salem a premium cycling location. It was chosen to host the Cycling Classic, one of only three US racing events sanctioned by Union Cycliste Internationale, the world governing body for cycling recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

7 Amazing Benefits of Cycling

Cycling is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to stay active, no matter your age, fitness level, or experience. You set the pace. Whether you’re going for a gentle cruise around the neighborhood or pushing your limits on a challenging ride, everyone can enjoy a bike ride.

Beyond being fun, cycling offers powerful benefits for your body, mind, and even the planet.

1. Lose weight and build muscle – Cycling burns calories and strengthens your legs, glutes, and core, helping you tone up and feel stronger over time.
2. Boost heart health – Regular rides can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, improve circulation, and support a healthier heart.
3. Low-impact exercise – Unlike running or high-impact sports, cycling is easy on the joints. It is a fantastic choice for older adults or those recovering from injuries.
4. Better balance and coordination – Staying steady on two wheels sharpens your sense of balance and strengthens posture, helpful skills for daily life.
5. Mental health boost – Outdoor rides ease stress, reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety, and offer a natural mood lift.
6. Cognitive and aging benefits – For older adults, cycling has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall well-being, helping maintain sharpness and independence.
7. Eco-friendly transportation – Choosing a bike over a car reduces carbon emissions, cuts traffic, and helps make your community greener and cleaner.

Every ride, big or small, adds up to better health, a clearer mind, and a stronger connection to the world around you. It’s a chance to reconnect with your surroundings and enjoy the simple joy of movement.

Where to Ride: Explore Winston-Salem on Two Wheels

Ready to roll through greenways, loops, and city streets? Winston-Salem has a ride for every mood, from easygoing cruises to routes that’ll get your heart racing. Let’s check out some of the best places to spin your wheels.

Best Bike Trails in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is packed with scenic and bike-friendly routes that wind through parks, historic neighborhoods, and peaceful outskirts. With new signage expanding across the city, it’s never been easier to explore by bike.

• Yadkin Connector Route – A smooth, pleasant path connecting riders to the city’s western edge, perfect for a relaxed weekend ride or casual exploration.
• Coliseum Loop – Circles the heart of Winston-Salem near the Coliseum complex, blending urban energy with surprisingly quiet pockets for riders.
• Downtown Loop – A vibrant downtown route where you can stop for coffee, admire local art, or explore shops and restaurants along the way.
• Reynolds Park Loop – A lush loop around Reynolds Park, ideal for nature lovers wanting green space alongside light urban riding.
• Salem Lake Connector and Old Salem Connector – Routes that link you to some of the city’s most beloved landmarks, from the peaceful waters of Salem Lake to the cobblestone charm of Old Salem’s historic district.

Check the city’s cyclist website for detailed maps, insider tips, and updates on new routes coming soon.

Urban Loops and On-Street Bike Lanes

Winston-Salem’s growing bike lane network makes it easier and safer to explore the city. Whether commuting, running errands, or adding miles to a weekend ride, you can feel safe and secure on your bike.

• 4th Street (Martin Luther King Dr to Paterson Ave, 0.7 miles) – A short but vital stretch connecting key downtown points and providing a smooth east-west link for urban riders.
• Broad Street (Cotton St to Acadia Ave, 1.4 miles) – A popular north-south route threading through local neighborhoods. Offers access to parks and green spaces.
• Main Street (Salem Ave to Clemmonsville Rd, 2.4 miles) – One of the city’s longest continuous bike lanes, ideal for cyclists looking to cover more ground and connect southside neighborhoods with downtown.

Download the Winston-Salem Urban Area Bicycle Route Map to find more road options rated by bike-friendliness, and plan the perfect ride across town.

Off-Road Cycling Trails & Greenways

For riders craving a break from traffic, Winston-Salem’s network of greenways offers peaceful, off-road routes through parks, forests, and along creeks. These trails are perfect for leisurely rides, family outings, or just clearing your mind in nature.

• Salem Park Greenway – A moderate ride with gentle hills and shaded stretches. Great for building endurance without feeling too intense.
• Waughtown Connector Greenway – An easy, relaxing route winding through quiet neighborhoods and ending with beautiful views at Quarry Park. This is a local favorite for sunrise or sunset rides.
• The Strollway – A unique downtown greenway that blends cycling with sightseeing, passing historic sites, public art, and lively city streets.
• Bowen Branch to Brushy Fork Greenway – For a longer adventure, start on the Bowen Branch Greenway (just over 2 miles one way), connect to the Newell/Massey Greenway, and continue onto Brushy Fork. An excellent choice for riders looking to stretch their legs.

Find maps, access points, and trail conditions in the city’s Greenways Guide, a helpful resource for planning your next off-road journey.

Mountain Bike Trails in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem offers fantastic mountain biking options for riders seeking adventure, challenge, and off-road fun.

From beginner-friendly loops to rugged singletrack, these trails offer a diverse range of experiences for every skill level.

• Hobby Park – A 7-mile loop for intermediate to advanced riders, Hobby Park is Winston-Salem’s only sanctioned mountain bike trail. Expect tight singletrack, steep climbs, technical sections, and built-in features like logs, drops, and rock elements, which make this a local favorite for challenge seekers.
• Tanglewood Park – An 8-mile intermediate loop offering fast, flowy sections alongside more technical outer loops. Riders will navigate tight turns, roots, small logs, and modest elevation changes, making it a dynamic ride from start to finish.
• Salem Lake Trail – A 6-mile loop that’s easy to intermediate, perfect for riders easing into mountain biking. This mostly smooth dirt path circles scenic Salem Lake, offering a laid-back, nature-filled experience without technical demands.
• Horizons Park MTB – A 3-mile intermediate to advanced loop with steep drop-offs, gullies, angled bridges, and tight turns. Maintained by the local biking community, it’s known for its rugged, technical character and offers a rewarding challenge.
• Bonus Trails Nearby – Check out Kernersville MTB Park (4 miles, intermediate), Little Pisgah and Run(a)way Trails (advanced local favorites), or Northeast Park (10 miles, beginner-friendly with creek crossings) for even more variety just outside Winston-Salem.

Before you ride, check current trail conditions, especially after rain, and consider supporting local volunteer groups that maintain these trails. Beginners are encouraged to start with Salem Lake or Northeast Park. If you want something more challenging, tackle some advanced terrain, such as Hobby Park or Horizons.

Cycling Rules of the Road

Cycling is a fantastic way to get around and stay active, but it’s essential to remain safe for yourself, other cyclists, and drivers around you. Following a few key safety rules ensures your rides are enjoyable, stress-free, and accident-free.

When riders and drivers share the road with care and attention, everyone enjoys a safer, more enjoyable journey.

Where to Gear Up: Bicycle Shops in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Local bike shops play a central role in the cycling community. They offer expert service, shared knowledge, and a welcoming space for riders of all levels. When you step into one, you’re tapping into years of experience, hands-on service, and the shared knowledge of people who love to ride.

At these shops, you’ll find personalized help to get the right bike fit, guidance on gear, and a team ready to answer questions, big or small. They provide essential maintenance services, stock parts and accessories. Bike shops also often host workshops to help you keep your bike in top shape.

Even more, local shops are gathering points, places where you can swap tips, learn about the best local routes, and connect with other cyclists in the area. Supporting them means supporting the riding community that makes Winston-Salem such a special place to ride.

Here are some of the trusted cycling shops in and around Winston-Salem:

• Ken’s Bike Shop, 2750 Reynolda Road, 336-724-9688, Hours: Tues-Sat, 10 am – 5:30 pm
• Mock Orange Bikes, 1206 Reynolda Road, 336-722-6678. Hours: Tues-Fri, 9 am – 6 pm, Sat, 9 am – 3 pm
• Paul’s Cycling & Fitness, 2405 Buchanan Street, 336-777-1002, Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 am – 6 pm, Sat, 9 am – 4 pm
• Clemmons Bicycle, 2703 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC 27012, 336-766-5564, Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am – 6 pm, Sat 10 am – 2 pm.

Explore the City: Winston-Salem’s Bike-Share Program

If you don’t own a bike or are unsure if you’re ready to take up the sport regularly, you can still enjoy the fun and healthy activity whenever you like, thanks to a bike-sharing program.

FLOWBIKES Bike-Share, operated by the National Cycling Center, Inc., is an easy, affordable way to enjoy riding the trails in the area or cycling around the city instead of driving. The city’s public bike-share program comprises 100 bikes and 22 stations across downtown Winston-Salem, Muddy Creek, Salem Creek Greenways, and Salem Lake Park.

You can purchase an annual membership for $20. The annual membership allows for unlimited free trips under an hour, and then $1 for every 30 minutes over that. Alternatively, you can pay as you go for $1.50 per 30 minutes. You must download the Movatic app and create an account to rent the bikes. You can pick up and return bikes to any station. See the FlOWBIKES Website for more details and station locations.

Beyond the Ride: Winston-Salem’s Cycling Community in Action

Cycling in Winston-Salem goes far beyond casual spins or scenic routes. It’s a growing movement fueled by local talent, world-class training, and events that draw riders and spectators together. These programs and people embody the heart of a city where cycling is an integral part of the culture, and where riders of all levels can find inspiration, connection, and opportunity.

Team Winston-Salem: Professional Cycling with Local Roots

Team Winston-Salem brings together a roster of U23 and pro cyclists from across the country, all representing Winston-Salem on the national stage. Launched officially in January 2025 and led by former pro cyclist Jon Hamblen as team director, the squad kicked off competition at the Hincapie Donaldson Crit in Greenville, SC.

2025 Highlights & Schedule

• Over 30 races are scheduled for 2025, spanning all seasons.
• Participating events include the Wake Forest Road Race (March) and the Winston-Salem Cycling Classic (May).
• Riders have already achieved podium finishes at events like USA Cycling Pro Nationals and race days in Winston-Salem.

Flow Automotive leads as title sponsor, with key support from Salem Sports Events, National Cycling Center, Julbo Eyewear, Haro Bikes, and more.

What Makes This Special for Winston-Salem

• Local identity – Designed to put the city’s name and spirit at the forefront while riders compete across the country.
• Elite-level performance – The team is committed to podium-worthy results and building a respected presence in domestic elite cycling.

Want to follow Team Winston-Salem’s journey or learn about fan events and merchandise? Visit the official site for race schedules, team bios, and merch options: teamwinstonsalem.com.

Winston-Salem Cycling Classic

The Winston-Salem Cycling Classic is one of the premier cycling events in the country, drawing top talent and thousands of fans each year. In 2025, the event took place on May 23–24 under the banner “Gears & Guitars: The Biggest Party on Two Wheels”, and it lived up to the name.

The weekend kicked off Friday night with Streets of Fire, featuring drag race-style sprints down 4th Street. Saturday delivered a packed schedule of Fondos and crit races for both pros and amateurs. Off the course, crowds enjoyed live music, food trucks, and a free Saturday night concert. And of course, it’s all topped off by a buzzing beer garden atmosphere.

Many past competitors have gone on to race at the Paris Olympics. This underscores the event’s reputation as a showcase for elite cycling talent. The 2026 Classic promises to be just as thrilling, a can’t-miss celebration of sport, music, and community.

National Cycling Center In Winston-Salem

The National Cycling Center (NCC), located at 505 N Liberty Street in Winston-Salem, is an official USA Cycling training center and is seeking designation from the United States Olympic Committee. Still in development, the NCC has ambitious plans to become a national hub for cycling training, research, and community programs.

Once fully operational, the NCC will serve as a premier destination for elite cyclists. They will offer cutting-edge sports medicine resources and expert coaching. It will also work to identify and develop young talent across all cycling disciplines. NCC is committed to awarding over 100 scholarships annually to underprivileged youth.

Beyond elite training, the NCC aims to strengthen the local cycling community. They plan to offer day camps, support school cycling programs, and help high school mountain biking teams. NCC wants to create a central gathering space for local clubs and cycling events. The center will also provide bike education and repair programs for kids. This will include opportunities to earn credits toward their own bikes through hands-on shop experience.

Adding to this momentum, Winston-Salem’s two major universities, Wake Forest University and Winston-Salem State University, bring outstanding sports medicine and exercise science expertise that will help fuel the NCC’s mission and impact.

For more details, visit the NCC website.

Group Bike Rides & Clubs: Where Community Meets the Road

One of the best ways to experience cycling in Winston-Salem is by joining a local group ride or club. These rides offer more than just miles; they bring connection, motivation, and fun with fellow cyclists.

The local cycling scene has something for everyone. You’ll find spirited weekly rides, relaxed social spins, charity events, and family-friendly meetups. Clubs help new riders feel welcome and share tips on routes and gear.

The spirit of this community shines in the short documentary 0530: Riding in the Dark (view on FilmFreeway). It follows a local early-morning cycling group as they find purpose, friendship, and joy on the road.

Joining a group is a great way to grow as a rider, explore hidden local gems, and feel part of Winston-Salem’s cycling community.

Cycling For Fitness

If you’re looking to incorporate cycling into your fitness routine and want an intense workout, rain or shine, be sure to check out our article about CycleBar. Great for all fitness levels, it offers a music-fueled, upbeat experience on state-of-the-art cycles. New riders are offered a special $10 class.

Winston-Salem Bike Tours and Rentals

Looking to experience Winston-Salem from a fresh perspective? Several local companies offer bike tours and rentals that let you explore the city’s historic streets, scenic greenways, and hidden gems.

Triad Eco Adventures / Triad Trolleys – Guided E-Bike Tours

• Downtown Loop (1.75 hours, from $54) – Explore historic downtown, Old Salem, Innovation Quarter, and local greenways on Pedego pedal-assist e-bikes. Includes helmet, guide, and lively narration.
• Greenways and Quarry Park Tour (1.75 hours) – Scenic ride through the greenways past Salem College and Winston-Salem State University, ending at Quarry Park.
• Explore More Tour (3 hours, from $85) – This tour covers downtown, Wendover Avenue, Reynolda Village, Graylyn, and additional local greenways for a more extended adventure.
• Visit Triad Eco Adventures’ website for more details.

Pedego Electric Bikes (Piedmont Triad) – Self-Guided Rides

Rent a pedal-assist e-bike and explore Winston-Salem at your own pace. This is a great option for families, casual riders, or anyone wanting the freedom of a solo ride.

Trolley Pub (BYOB Party Bike)

Pedal and socialize on a multi-person party bike that cruises through downtown. Ideal for groups looking for a fun and unique experience together.

Where Are The Best Walking Trails In Town?

Cycling is a significant part of Winston-Salem’s outdoor charm, but the city also offers numerous other ways to stay active and connected to the community.

We’d love to hear from you! Tell us about your favorite cycling routes. Share the hidden gems you’ve discovered. Have a memorable ride or story? Drop it in the comments. Your experiences help inspire and connect Winston-Salem’s cycling community.