Explore Singapore on Two Wheels: Scenic Cycling Trails for Avid Bikers and Leisure Cyclists
PUBLISHED July 2nd, 2020 05:00 am | UPDATED July 15th, 2020 10:03 am
Cycling has been steadily gaining traction in Singapore over the past few years – be it as a sustainable means of getting around or as a leisurely activity. With regional parks being equipped with recreational cycling routes, cycling has never been more fun. And not to mention, it’s an enjoyable (and safe) way to work up a sweat as you zoom through picturesque parks. If you are tired of being cooped up in your home, grab your trusty bikes and re-explore sunny Singapore through these idyllic cycling trails.
Northern Explorer Loop
From parks to waterfronts to forests, this trail is scattered with fascinating sights that will whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You might want to clear your day before embarking on this route as it extends a whopping 25 kilometres, linking the northernmost regions of Singapore. Enjoy the vibrant biodiversity of Admiralty Park before switching terrains on to the breezy Woodlands Waterfront that boasts an undiminished view of the Straits of Johor. Wrap up your journey at the verdant Sembawang Park where you can learn about Singapore’s colonial past from historical spots like the Beaulieu House and remains of the 1920s Seletar Pier.
Eastern Coastal Loop
Quench your thirst for seaside views with this 17.5km trail that takes you on a trip along the spine of eastern Singapore. The best part? You don’t even have to lug your bike along as you can rent and return them at the various PCN pitstops located along the route. Kick off from Pasir Ris and peddle through the open grasslands and freshwater wetlands of Tampines Eco Green. A rewarding end awaits at East Coast Park, where you can hop off your bike and immerse in the serenity of the gentle ocean waves.
Marina Bay
This extension of the Eastern Coastal loop that branches from East Coast Park takes you through the most exciting landmarks of Singapore’s bay area. Get touristy and soak in the beautiful cityscape views of hot spots like Marina Barrage, Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer, on wheels. We recommend heading over close to sunrise or sunset to witness the magic of the golden hours.
Western Adventure Loop
Explore the wild wild west as you cycle through the tranquil parks and lush greenways in western Singapore. Begin your journey at Choa Chu Kang Park before wheeling into the scenic Pang Sua Park Connector where you can witness the fluttery critters in the butterfly gardens planted along the trail. From there, ride through rugged terrains to reach the idyllic Bukit Batok Nature Park. Got time to spare? Make a pit stop and admire the striking granite cliff, Little Guilin – a relic from the area’s early mining days.
Pulau Ubin Ketam Bike Trail
Itching for a real challenge? The international-standard Ketam Mountain Bike Park of Pulau Ubin is just a bumboat ride away. The first of its kind in Singapore, this 45 hectare park boasts 10km of marked trails of increasing difficulty from the beginner’s Blue Square to the tricky Double Black Diamond for seasoned riders. Gear up and get your adrenaline pumping as your race through narrow tracks, overcome steep climbs and expertly manoeuvre sharp corners. Once you have conquered the trial take a breather and enjoy the vast panoramic views of the Ketam Quarry and countryside.
Coney Island
The rugged trails of Coney Island are the perfect starting point for aspiring mountain bikers and casual cyclists looking for an adventure. Cycle along the bumpy 2.4km dirt track or take a detour through any of the side earth roads to make your way to the calming beaches. The island’s diverse wildlife in a rustic setting offers much to explore for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Khatib Loop
A (not so) well-kept secret among cyclists, Khatib Loop is a 16km route that takes you on a journey through the lesser-known side of the Lion City. Unlike the manicured greens that encircle the usual cycling routes in Singapore, this trail is lined with iconic black and white colonial bungalows as well as a small bunker tucked away at Gibraltar Crescent. Start at Khatib MRT station for a ride down memory lane before winding down at the fabled Sembawang Hot Spring. What better way to rest your weary limbs than with a steamy foot soak?
Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail
The C2C Trail cuts through 18 parks to connect Jurong Lake Gardens in the west with Coney Island in the northeast. Though the route mainly snakes through parks and nature reserves (18 to be precise), there are parts where you will have to walk through busy roads to make your way to the next checkpoint. If you are worried about getting lost, download NParks’ augmented reality-enabled C2C Mobile App that not only navigates you through the 36 km stretch but also lets you participate in interactive activities. From the Bukit Batok Nature Park to waterside views at MacRitchie Reservoir, there’s plenty to see as you whiz from coast to coast, so get an early start if you want to complete the trail in a day.
Top Image: NParks
