North Oconee River Greenway – Sandy Creek Nature Center loop from
North Oconee River Greenway – Sandy Creek Nature Center loop from
4.7
(6412)
6,413
riders
05:51
131km
1,000m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 7, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 69.6 km for 96 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
64.0 km
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
66.7 km
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
69.1 km
Sandy Creek Nature Center
Nature Reserve
69.6 km
Highlight • Natural
131 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
111 km
11.2 km
4.45 km
4.22 km
111 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
107 km
23.6 km
576 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (280 m)
Lowest point (170 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
34°C
22°C
61 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a genuinely pleasant and accessible road cycling route, the North Oconee River Greenway – Sandy Creek Nature Center loop delivers. This moderate 70.5-mile (113.4 km) ride, with 2914 feet (888 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 4 hours and 54 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a longer, relaxed day on two wheels.
What to expect on North Oconee River Greenway – Sandy Creek Nature Center loop from
Expect a smooth journey on predominantly flat, well-paved paths with only gentle inclines, perfect for a relaxed pace. The route largely follows the North Oconee River, offering frequent views of the water and immersing you in nature with plenty of shade from the surrounding woods. You'll pass by points of interest like North Oconee River Park, Aguar Plaza, and Oconee Hill Cemetery, plus a half-mile section with interpretive panels detailing Athens' history. This trail is easy to ride and suits cyclists of all fitness levels, especially those new to longer distances.
Planning your visit
The Sandy Creek Nature Center makes an excellent starting point, offering amenities and easy access to the Greenway. You'll find convenient bike repair stations both at the Nature Center and along the paved trail system, which is a thoughtful touch. This is a popular spot, so expect to share the path respectfully with walkers and runners. For those wanting to extend their adventure, the Greenway connects directly to the Firefly Trail, opening up even longer cycling possibilities.
Trail details
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