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Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake loop from Harlem Hills Nature Preserve

Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake loop from Harlem Hills Nature Preserve

Moderate

4.6

(3039)

11,977

riders

Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake loop from Harlem Hills Nature Preserve

01:35

26.6km

160m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Tips

The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 20.0 km for 263 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

9.91 km

Plum Grove Nature Preserve

Nature Reserve

10.8 km

South Hart Rd Grassland Natural Area

Highlight • Natural

20.1 km

Boardwalk in Rock Cut State Park

Highlight • Bridge

You can camp at Rock Cut. This park is home to an abundant fauna of aquatic birds, and wild animals. You will find more than 100 types of wildflowers within …

Tip by

21.5 km

Rock Cut State Park

Highlight • Forest

You can camp at Rock Cut. This park is home to an abundant fauna of aquatic birds, and wild animals. You will find more than 100 types of wildflowers within …

Tip by

22.2 km

Pierce Lake

Highlight • Lake

The road runs right along the lake and over the dam. The views from here stretch right across to the far end of the lake. There are plenty of amenities …

Tip by

26.6 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

18.6 km

6.09 km

1.49 km

250 m

180 m

Surfaces

14.2 km

10.7 km

1.42 km

295 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Wednesday 8 July

30°C

19°C

31 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

The Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake loop from Harlem Hills Nature Preserve offers a rewarding road cycling experience, covering 16.5 miles (26.6 km) with 532 feet (162 metres) of elevation gain in about 1 hour and 34 minutes. Rated as moderate, this route is ideal for well-conditioned road cyclists seeking a scenic escape into nature without an overly strenuous climb.

What to expect on Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake loop from Harlem Hills Nature Preserve

As you pedal this loop, you'll journey through a mix of parkland and dense wooded forests, with the highlight being the scenic lakeside views along Pierce Lake and over its dam. The terrain is primarily paved and well-maintained, though you should be prepared for some unpaved sections that might add a bit of challenge. While there are some climbs, they are generally manageable for a cyclist with good fitness, making this a pleasant ride for those who enjoy varied natural beauty and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and various bird species.

Planning your visit

This popular route is a favorite among local road cyclists, offering convenient access to Rock Cut State Park from the Harlem Hills Nature Preserve cycling trailhead. Parking at Rock Cut State Park for road cycling is generally straightforward, and the park provides amenities like picnic areas. Consider visiting in spring for wildflowers or fall for vibrant foliage, and always check local conditions before heading out.

Trail details