Cycling
Your Guide to Cycling in Mankato
Cycling in the Greater Mankato Area
The Mankato area is a cycling-friendly region with a variety of trails and routes for all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride on paved paths, an off-road adventure, or a long-distance gravel or road ride, Mankato has something to offer.
Paved Trails: Over 60 Miles of Scenic Riding
Mankato boasts an extensive network of paved trails, perfect for families, recreational riders, and commuters. Popular routes include...
Red Jacket Trail
A scenic ride through forests, farmland, and across historic railroad trestles.
Minnesota River Trail
Follows the river through downtown Mankato and connects to multiple city parks.
Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail
A long, paved rail trail extending from Mankato to Faribault.
Gravel Riding: Endless Exploration
For those who prefer longer rides, Mankato offers miles of scenic country highways and well-maintained gravel roads.
Quiet Roads
Explore quiet, rolling landscapes with minimal traffic.
Group Rides
Ride gravel loops that range from beginner-friendly to challenging endurance routes.
Nicollet Bike Shop Group Rides
Gravel Events
Participate in events like the River Valley 100, an annual long-distance ride featuring a mix of paved and gravel roads.
Mountain Biking: Trails for Every Skill Level
Whether you're new to mountain biking or an experienced rider looking for a challenge, these trails provide great options close to town.
Kiwanis Recreation Area
Beginner-friendly dirt trails with scenic river views.
Mount Kato
A premier destination with intermediate and advanced mountain biking trails featuring climbs, switchbacks, and technical descents.
Group Rides: Connect with the Cycling Community
Riding with a group is a great way to explore new routes, improve your skills, and meet fellow cyclists. Several organizations in Mankato offer group rides for various skill levels.
Nicollet Bike Shop Rides
Nicollet Bike Shop hosts a variety of group rides, including road, gravel, and mountain biking. Rides are weather permitting, and helmets are required. For the latest schedule and details, please visit their Group Rides page or call the shop at 507-388-9390.
Scheels Bike Club
Scheels in Mankato organizes community bike rides that cater to cyclists of various skill levels. Rides typically start in the Scheels parking lot and conclude at local venues with food and drink specials. For current information on ride schedules and events, please check their Facebook events page.
MAMB
MAMB is an organized group dedicated to creating purpose-built singletrack mountain bike trails in the greater Mankato area. They offer weekly group rides on local mountain biking trails, accommodating both beginners and advanced riders. To learn more about their ride schedules and how to get involved, visit their official website or check out their Facebook events page.