Four New U.S. Bicycle Routes Added to 23,000-Mile National Network

Big news for cyclists: the U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS) expanded significantly in 2024, adding 3,568 miles to its network—the largest single-year growth ever. This brings the system’s total mileage to an impressive 23,186 miles.

The Adventure Cycling Association, pioneers of bicycle routes in the U.S. and creators of iconic bicycle routes such as the Great Divide MTB Route and the Idaho Hot Springs Route, has just unveiled four new routes in Arkansas, California, and Wyoming. These additions are now part of the United States Bicycle Route System.

“State DOTs are focused on delivering a safe, multimodal transportation system that offers mobility for all,” said Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, in a statement. “Our partnership with the Adventure Cycling Association to continually expand the U.S Bicycle Route System is just one of the many ways states are meeting that goal. The four new routes being added to the USBRS network in Indiana, Kansas, and Missouri further highlight the active transportation benefits that flow from the partnership between AASHTO, state DOTs, and Adventure Cycling.”

The U.S. Bicycle Route System is a growing national network of officially designated, numbered, and signed routes that utilize existing roads, trails, and other bike-friendly infrastructure. Once completed, the system will span 50,000 miles, offering new possibilities for cross-country travel, regional tours, and bike commuting. It will also bring benefits to local communities by improving safety, expanding cycling opportunities, and boosting tourism and economic growth.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the new routes:

Indiana: USBR 37
Stretching 186.9 miles, USBR 37 connects the Erie Lackawanna Trail in Northwest Indiana to the Monon Trail in Central Indiana. The route offers a mix of suburban streets, rural roads, and scenic trails, passing landmarks like Prophetstown State Park and the Wabash Heritage Trail before ending in Carmel, Indiana. Cyclists will appreciate the seamless connection to the Monon Trail, one of the state’s most popular multi-use paths.

Missouri: USBR 51
Missouri’s portion of USBR 51 covers 553.7 miles, creating a continuous north-south route through the state, linking Iowa to Arkansas. Highlights include the Katy Trail (photo at top), the historic Swinging Bridge Trail, and scenic sections near Truman Lake. This addition also completes a major stretch of USBR 51, planned to eventually span from New Orleans to Minnesota.

4-State Lookout on bike route in Kansas

Kansas: USBR 50 and USBR 55
Kansas now boasts two new routes, bringing the state’s total to 883 miles. USBR 50 is a 40-mile paved route in the northeast corner of the state, connecting Nebraska to Missouri with scenic stops like the Four State Lookout in White Cloud. USBR 55 runs north to south for 288 miles, blending paved roads, crushed limestone trails, and rolling hills. A highlight is the Prairie Spirit Trail, which features well-maintained limestone paths and plenty of dining, lodging, and bike shop options along the way.

These new routes offer incredible opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of the Midwest, from urban trails to quiet backroads. For free digital maps of all USBRS routes, visit the Adventure Cycling Association’s website.

Whether you’re a long-distance bikepacker or looking for your next weekend ride, these additions provide fresh terrain to explore. Happy riding!