10 Hidden Gem Cycling Routes for Adventure Travel Bucket Lists

Cycling is the perfect way to immerse yourself in a beautiful landscape, far beyond the reach of those crowded highways and busy tourist sites. For those seeking routes that offer a combination of adventure, solitude, and the joy of discovery, these 10 hidden gem cycling routes are great opportunities to enjoy some stunning and lesser-traveled paths.

With each route comes a unique flavor, cultural highlights, and the promise of untamed beauty that reveals itself to those who venture into the unknown.

Here is our list:

1. The Dempster Highway, Canada

Stretching 700 kilometers from Dawson City in the Yukon Territory all the way to the tiny Arctic town of Tuktoyaktuk, the Dempster Highway is not for the faint-hearted. This gravel road (the last 10km is paved) is one of the most isolated and rugged routes in North America, inviting cyclists into the heart of an incredible wilderness are where cell service and roadside amenities vanish almost as soon as you begin.

Why Go: For cyclists drawn to the romance of the unknown, the Dempster delivers Arctic adventure. This is a ride of extremes: endless tundra, towering peaks, and the raw majesty of the Northern Lights on clear nights. Exercise extreme caution.

Route Highlights:

• Crossing the Arctic Circle is a rare feat on two wheels, and here, it’s met with sweeping views of the Arctic tundra where caribou roam and eagles soar.
• The Mackenzie and Peel river crossings offer moments of calm before the next segment of the wild, untamed route.
• The last stretch to Tuktoyaktuk, bordered by the Arctic Ocean, rewards riders with the beauty of permafrost pingos.

Tips for the Ride:

• Be Self-Sufficient: Pack enough food and water for long stretches without refills, along with essential spare parts for repairs. Be ready for anything and everything because you are far from any assistance.
• Layer Up: Even in summer, temperatures can dip dramatically at night, and sudden rain is always a possibility.
• Fuel Your Spirit: Don’t rush. Take time to meet locals, especially in the small communities of Fort McPherson and Inuvik, where the culture is as rich as the landscapes.

2. The Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is home to the aweseome Otago Central Rail Trail, a 152-kilometer route that follows an old railway line through some of the country’s most stunning, gold-toned landscapes. Cyclists are transported back in time as they pedal through tunnels, over viaducts, and past historic stations that tell tales of the region’s pioneering past. Otago is one of the world’s most stunning rail trails for cycling. 

Why Go: This trail is not just about the ride—it’s an immersive experience steeped in history, with the charm of small towns waiting to welcome you with open arms.

 

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Route Highlights:

• The Poolburn Gorge, with its towering cliffs and stone tunnels, is a stunning reminder of the engineering marvels of the early 20th century.
• Stop by Omakau, where the original rail station still stands, now serving as a café brimming with local flavors.
• Clyde, the trail’s starting point, offers opportunities to explore the vineyards of Central Otago, known for their world-class Pinot Noir.

Tips for the Ride:

• Take It Slow: Break up the ride over a few days to soak in the sights and enjoy stays in local B&Bs or converted railway buildings.
• Hybrid Bikes Work Best: The trail’s well-maintained gravel paths suit hybrid or mountain bikes for the most comfortable ride.
• Seasonal Magic: Late spring brings fields of lupines in bloom, while autumn covers the trail in a tapestry of golds and reds.

3. The Green Velo Trail, Poland

The Green Velo Trail is an extraordinary, lesser-known cycling route spanning approximately 2,000 kilometers through the scenic and diverse eastern regions of Poland. This well-marked trail takes cyclists on a journey through charming villages, pristine forests, historic landmarks, and national parks, offering a unique mix of nature, culture, and tranquility.

Why Go: The Green Velo Trail stands out for its ability to provide cyclists with an immersive experience in Poland’s untouched countryside. It meanders through five regions, including the stunning Białowieża Forest, one of Europe’s last and largest primeval forests and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The route offers a blend of solitude, rich biodiversity, and a deep dive into Poland’s local traditions and landscapes.

Bug River Valley on the Green Velo Trail in Poland (photo: Uroczysko Zaborek)

Route Highlights:

• Białowieża Forest: Ride through ancient woodlands known for their European bison and serene natural beauty.
• Świętokrzyskie Mountains: Experience gentle climbs and sweeping views of rolling hills, perfect for cyclists who enjoy varied terrain.
• Historic Towns: Visit charming old towns like Zamość, known for its Renaissance architecture and UNESCO designation.
• Bug River Valley: Pedal alongside this peaceful river, with its meandering paths and rich birdlife.

Tips for the Ride:

• Trail Surface: The Green Velo consists of paved roads and dedicated bike paths, with some segments on gravel. A sturdy hybrid or touring bike is ideal.
• Accessibility: The route is well-serviced with “Bike-Friendly Places” (MPRs), offering rest stops, accommodation, and amenities tailored for cyclists.
• Season: Late spring and early autumn are ideal for avoiding summer crowds and enjoying cooler weather.

The Green Velo Trail provides a truly unique cycling experience through Eastern Europe’s hidden corners, perfect for adventurers seeking something off the beaten path.

4. The Hebridean Way, Scotland

The Hebridean Way runs nearly 300 kilometers across 10 islands in the Outer Hebrides, each connected by causeways and ferries. This trail is a journey through ancient history, Gaelic culture, and landscapes where the land meets the sea in dramatic form.

Why Go: A ride through the Hebrides isn’t just about the scenery—it’s a spiritual journey that feels like a step back in time, with windswept beaches, stone circles, and remote communities where the old ways are still cherished.

Route Highlights:

• The standing stones of Callanish on the Isle of Lewis, older than Stonehenge, cast long shadows across the moorland at sunset.
• The ascent up Clisham, the highest peak in the Outer Hebrides, offers panoramic views that are worth every pedal stroke.
• White sandy beaches, such as those on the Isle of Berneray, make for perfect rest stops.

Tips for the Ride:

• Wind Is Your Companion: The strong Atlantic breezes are both a help and a challenge—pack a windbreaker and be prepared for sudden weather shifts.
• Stay Local: The islands’ inns and B&Bs provide warm hospitality and stories from locals who are eager to share their heritage.
• Plan Ferry Schedules: Coordinating ferry crossings is essential to keep the momentum of your ride smooth and timely.
• Linear Route: This route is linear, and you likely don’t want to travel all the way to the start. Don’t worry there are plenty of options. To get your bike back after a linear route, consider Ticket to Ride for bike transport between Inverness, Ullapool, and Oban, or leave your car in Oban and use Bespoke Bicycle Hebrides for a transfer after taking the ferry to Castlebay. Bikes are allowed on trains to Oban with a reservation (see www.scotrail.co.uk). From Stornoway, you can ferry to Ullapool and take a Citylink bus to Inverness or Uig to Glasgow, reserving bike space online. Limited bike space is available on Lewis and Harris buses, but Uist and Barra buses rarely accommodate bikes.

 

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5. The Carretera Austral, Chile

Winding for over 1,200 kilometers through Chile’s Patagonia, the Carretera Austral is an awe-inspiring route that takes cyclists through glacial rivers, verdant forests, and rugged mountain passes. It’s a ride where nature reigns supreme and human settlements are sparse.

Why Go: To cycle the Carretera Austral is to traverse one of the most pristine and untamed landscapes on Earth. Each turn in the road reveals new wonders, from shimmering fjords to jagged peaks piercing the sky.

Carretera Austral (photo Nicolas Lara)

Route Highlights:

• The turquoise waters of the Baker River, perfect for a rest stop and photography session.
• The remote village of Caleta Tortel, where wooden walkways replace roads.
• Cerro Castillo National Park, with its dramatic peaks that rise like the teeth of a saw.

Tips for the Ride:

• Tough Tires Needed: The road is often unpaved and rough, so use durable tires built for gravel and mixed terrain.
• Stock Up Wisely: With long stretches between towns, food and water supplies must be carefully planned.
• Bring Waterproofs: Rain is frequent in this part of Patagonia, and staying dry can mean the difference between comfort and misery.

Part of the vast Trans Canada Trail, the Kettle Valley Rail Trail stretches over 600 kilometers across British Columbia’s striking landscapes. This route takes cyclists through old railway tunnels, across towering trestles, and alongside serene lakes and dramatic rock faces, tracing the legacy of the early 20th-century railway builders.

Why Go: The Kettle Valley Rail Trail offers a blend of nature, history, and engineering feats, making it an ideal ride for those looking to immerse themselves in a multi-faceted adventure.

Biking on a trestle bridge on the Kettle Valley Trail in Christina Lake

Route Highlights:

• The Myra Canyon section, famous for its 18 trestle bridges and two tunnels, offers unparalleled views and a chance to feel the ingenuity of bygone days.
• Vineyards and orchards in the Okanagan region provide perfect pit stops for wine tasting and fruit-picking.
• A ride through Coquihalla Canyon features the famous Othello Tunnels, carved into granite cliffs and revealing breathtaking river gorges.

Tips for the Ride:

• Bike Type: A hybrid or mountain bike is well-suited for the gravel pathways and varied terrain.
• Watch for Wildlife: Deer, eagles, and black bears are commonly spotted, so keep your camera handy but maintain a respectful distance.
• Plan for Seasons: The summer months offer the warmest and driest conditions, but early fall showcases vibrant foliage for an added visual treat.

7. La Via Verde de la Sierra, Spain

This lesser-known greenway stretches approximately 36 kilometers between the towns of Olvera and Puerto Serrano in the drop-dead gorgeous Spanish area of Andalusia. La Via Verde de la Sierra is a route built on an abandoned railway line, taking cyclists through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of southern Spain’s rolling hills and lush river valleys. It is ideal for cyclists.

Why Go: Ideal for a relaxed yet scenic ride, this greenway combines Spain’s rich culture, impressive architecture, and the natural beauty of the Sierra de Cádiz region.

Via Verde De La Sierra cycling route in Andalusia

Route Highlights:

• Cycle through nearly 30 tunnels, some of which stretch for over a kilometer and offer cool respite from the sun.
• Stop by the Zaframagón Vulture Observatory to catch a glimpse of one of Europe’s largest colonies of Griffon vultures.
• The whitewashed towns along the route are perfect for sampling tapas and experiencing local Andalusian charm.

Tips for the Ride:

• Stay Illuminated: Carry a headlamp or bike light for the longer tunnels that lack lighting.
• Flat Terrain: The gentle slope makes it a great ride for families or those looking for a leisurely pace.
• Timing Is Key: Ride in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, and the countryside is lush and green.

8. Rallarvegen, Norway

Once a humble service road for the construction of the Bergen Railway, Rallarvegen has found new life as one of Norway’s most cherished cycling routes. Running 80 kilometers from the town of Haugastøl to Flåm, the historic path snakes through the dramatic landscapes of the Fjord Norway region combining stunning mountain scenery with a rich sense of history. The route becomes a trail/cycle track 15 km west of Haugastøl at Storurdivatnet, with refreshments and simple accommodation available at the Storurdi guard’s house, continuing to Finse, Norway’s highest railway station at 1222 metres above sea level.

Why Go: Rallarvegen is perfect for those seeking a ride that mixes rugged beauty with cultural heritage. Pedal past glacial lakes, through rocky highland passes, and alongside waterfalls that crash down from towering cliffs. As you ride, you’ll encounter old guard’s houses and NSB-owned heritage buildings that whisper stories of early railway workers.

Rallarvegen, Norway

Route Highlights:

• Haugastøl to Finse: Start your adventure at 988 meters above sea level and cycle up to Finse, the highest railway station in Norway at 1,222 meters. It’s a spot where the landscape feels almost otherworldly.
• Finse to Hallingskeid: Pedal through an area that can still hold pockets of snow even in summer, with the road gently descending as the views become greener.
• Klevagjeldet: A breathtakingly narrow ledge that demands caution but rewards with a panorama that makes you feel like you’re on the edge of the world.
• Flåmsdalen: End your ride in this lush valley that’s as famous for its beauty as it is for the iconic Flåm Railway, which zigzags dramatically down to the fjord.

Tips for the Ride:

• Season Matters: The best time to cycle Rallarvegen is between July and late September. Early in the season, snow can still cover parts of the trail.
• Take Your Time: The road can be rough in places, so don’t rush. Stop at Finse for a visit to the Rallar Museum or grab a refreshment at the historic Fagernut guard’s house.
• Safety First: The descent into Flåmsdalen includes sharp turns—walk your bike if needed.

Best Season: Late July through September.

Rallarvegen’s popularity has been growing, and it’s not hard to see why. For those who crave a cycling experience that’s as much about the journey as the destination, this trail offers an unforgettable ride through the heart of Norway’s rugged wilderness.

9. Shimanami Kaido, Japan

Spanning 70 kilometers across the Seto Inland Sea, the Shimanami Kaido connects Japan’s main island of Honshu with Shikoku through a series of bridges and small islands. This well-maintained route is a cyclist’s dream, offering smooth paths, bike-friendly infrastructure, and panoramic ocean views.

Why Go: Shimanami Kaido isn’t just about cycling—it’s about experiencing Japan’s seamless blend of nature, tradition, and modern engineering.

The Shimanami Kaido, Japan

Route Highlights:

• Cross the Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, the world’s longest series of suspension bridges, with designated lanes for cyclists.
• Explore the small island of Ōmishima, home to the ancient Oyamazumi Shrine and its storied samurai artifacts.
• Take in the Setouchi Triennale (art festival) if riding during event years, where the islands become a canvas for contemporary art.

Tips for the Ride:

• Rentals Available: Bike rental shops along the route provide options for riders of all levels, including e-bikes.
• Overnight Option: Split the ride into two days to enjoy leisurely stops and explore the islands more fully.
• Perfect in Spring: The route is at its most beautiful during cherry blossom season, with blooms lining parts of the path.

10. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, USA

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) is the world’s longest off-pavement cycling route, stretching over 4,400 kilometers from Banff, Canada, to the US-Mexico border. This epic trail traverses the spine of the Rocky Mountains, presenting cyclists with a test of endurance, solitude, and unparalleled beauty.

Why Go: For those looking for the ultimate bikepacking experience, the GDMBR is a rite of passage, combining rugged terrain with the stunning backcountry of North America.

Cycling on the Great Divide bicycle route

Route Highlights:

• Ride through Montana’s Flathead Valley, where lush meadows and alpine lakes await.
• Pass through Wyoming’s Great Divide Basin, an otherworldly expanse where water flows neither to the Atlantic nor the Pacific.
• Enjoy Colorado’s breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains, followed by the stunning deserts of New Mexico as you near the border.

Tips for the Ride:

• Bring Backup Maps: GPS devices can fail in remote areas; physical maps are a must.
• Weather Preparedness: Be ready for diverse climates, from snow in the north to scorching heat in the south.
• Wildlife Awareness: This route traverses bear country, so pack bear spray and follow best practices for food storage.