​2026 World Cup in the USA: The best cycle routes around the German team’s base in Winston-Salem

Whilst the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA is generating excitement around the world, many fans are turning their attention to the German national team’s base in Winston-Salem. Away from the big stadiums and public viewing areas, this region is perfect for exploring by bike. With its green lakes, historic trails and rolling hills, the area offers ideal conditions for anyone looking for some fresh air and exercise before kick-off or between matches.

Admittedly, Winston-Salem isn’t exactly at the top of the list of cycling destinations. The city is better known for its history, its universities and its role in the tobacco industry. But once you’ve discovered the numerous greenways and back roads, you’ll soon realise that the region has a surprising amount to offer.

The blend of nature, culture and a relaxed Southern atmosphere is particularly enjoyable. Unlike in many big cities, you can often drive for kilometres on end here without constantly being held up by traffic lights or heavy traffic. Instead, the landscape alternates between wooded areas, lakeside scenery and small historic towns.

The perfect place to start: Salem Lake Greenway

Anyone visiting the region for the first time should start with a walk around Salem Lake. The lake is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre and is one of the region’s most popular recreational areas.

The route around the lake is easy to cycle and is suitable for road cyclists as well as those on trekking or gravel bikes. The route takes you through shady woodland sections, with beautiful views of the water opening up every now and then. It is particularly charming in the early morning hours, when wisps of mist hang over the lake and the temperatures are still pleasant.

For visitors during the World Cup, this circuit could be the ideal way to start the day: just under an hour and a half of exercise before getting back to watching football.

History and Landscape: Shallow Ford State Historic Site

Anyone looking to clock up a few more kilometres will find an attractive alternative north-west of Winston-Salem. The route to the historic Shallow Ford State Historic Site combines a sporting challenge with local history.

Part of an old trade route runs through here, one that was used long before the modern road network was built. The tour takes you through rural areas, past farms, small churches and the characteristic landscapes of North Carolina’s Piedmont region.

The constant undulation of the hills is particularly pleasant. It never gets properly alpine, but it’s never boring either. Anyone who likes to cycle at a steady pace whilst taking in the scenery will find this route right up their street.

The underrated side of Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem itself is often underestimated. Yet the city has become much more cycle-friendly in recent years. Numerous greenways link parks, residential areas and the city centre.

A leisurely afternoon stroll through the city can be surprisingly varied. In particular, the revitalised Innovation Quarter, the historic buildings of Old Salem and the green corridors running alongside the city’s parks can be wonderfully combined.

Anyone who hasn’t brought their own bike can make use of local bike hire companies or bike-sharing schemes. For international visitors to the World Cup, this should be a straightforward way to explore the region at their own pace.

A trip to wine country

If you have an extra day to spare, you should consider visiting the nearby Yadkin Valley. The region is regarded as one of the best-known wine-growing areas in the south-east of the USA.

The roads are usually quiet, and the landscape has an almost European feel to it: rolling hills, vineyards and sweeping views characterise the scene. Particularly in the evening light, there’s an atmosphere that one might not necessarily expect to find in North Carolina.

For leisure cyclists, this offers the chance to combine physical activity with regional cuisine – after the ride, of course.

Practical tips for cyclists during the 2026 World Cup

Summer in North Carolina can be hot and humid. Temperatures well above 30 degrees Celsius are not uncommon. It is therefore advisable to set off as early in the morning as possible.

It’s also worth noting that:

• to take enough water with you,
• Don’t forget your sun cream,
• to plan longer trips carefully,
• to use e-bikes where necessary.

International visitors, in particular, often underestimate the combination of heat and humidity.

The best tour suggestions at a glance

1. Salem Lake & Greenway

• Length: approx. 27 kilometres
• Difficulty: easy
• Highlights: lakeside paths, woodland trails, a relaxed atmosphere
• Ideal for: beginners, families, leisure cyclists

2. Shallow Ford State Historic Site Tour

• Length: approx. 49 kilometres
• Difficulty: medium
• Highlights: Historic route, rural countryside, rolling hills
• Ideal for: touring cyclists and road cyclists

3. Winston-Salem City Greenways

• Length: adjustable
• Difficulty: easy
• Highlights: Parks, Old Salem, Innovation Quarter
• Ideal for: city explorers and visitors short on time

4. Yadkin Valley Wine Country Tour

• Length: can be planned to suit individual needs
• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Highlights: Vineyards, panoramic views, quiet roads
• Ideal for: leisure cyclists and day trips

Further information and suggested routes can be found at www.visitwinstonsalem.com/things-to-do/hiking-biking-trails

Conclusion

Anyone visiting North Carolina in 2026 for the football should definitely set aside some time for cycling. Winston-Salem may not be the first city that springs to mind as a cycling destination – but that is precisely what makes it so appealing. Amidst lakes, historic trails, green corridors and the rolling hills of the Piedmont, you’ll experience a side of the USA that remains hidden from many visitors.

Sometimes it’s not the major attractions that stick in your memory. Sometimes all it takes is a quiet morning by Salem Lake, the hum of tyres on the tarmac and the feeling of discovering a region entirely under your own steam. That’s exactly what Winston-Salem is made for.