The Best Cycling Routes in the United States to Check Out this Summer

What are the best cycling routes in the United States? Cycling enthusiasts across the United States are spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting the perfect route for their next adventure. From rugged mountain trails to scenic coastal paths and urban bike lanes, the country offers an array of options to suit every preference and skill level.

In this quick and easy guide, we’ll delve into some of the best cycling routes in the United States, providing detailed descriptions, key highlights, and additional resources for further exploration.

Benefits of Cycling for Recreation and Fitness

Before we embark on our journey to discover the best cycling routes in the United States, let’s take a moment to appreciate the many benefits of cycling for both recreation and fitness.

Cycling is an excellent form of low-impact exercise that offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. From improving cardiovascular health and muscle strength to reducing stress and boosting mood, cycling is a holistic activity that promotes overall well-being. Additionally, cycling allows riders to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and reduce their carbon footprint by choosing a sustainable mode of transportation.

Factors to Consider When Planning a Cycling Route

When planning your cycling adventure, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. These factors include:

• Route Difficulty: Assess the terrain, elevation changes, and distance to match your fitness level and skill.
• Safety: Choose routes with dedicated bike lanes, low traffic volumes, and minimal hazards.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and pack appropriate gear for the conditions.
• Amenities: Research rest stops, water sources, restroom facilities, and accommodations along the route.

Best Cycling Routes in the United States

The Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia):

• • • Description: Spanning 469 miles through the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The route meanders through lush forests, rolling meadows, and quaint mountain towns.
    • Key Highlights: Be sure to stop at overlooks like Grandfather Mountain and Mount Mitchell, explore historic sites such as the Biltmore Estate, and immerse yourself in the region’s vibrant music and arts scene.
    • Additional Information: For route details, visitor centers, and park regulations, visit the Blue Ridge Parkway website.

The Katy Trail (Missouri)

Bridge on Missouri’s Katy Trail (photo: Christopher Hammond)

• • Description: As one of the longest rails-to-trails projects in the country, the Katy Trail offers cyclists a scenic journey through the heart of Missouri’s wine country. The flat, crushed limestone trail stretches for 240 miles along the Missouri River, passing through charming towns, farmland, and river bluffs.
  • Key Highlights: Take a leisurely ride through the picturesque towns of Augusta and Hermann, sample local wines at vineyards along the trail, and enjoy panoramic views of the river valley.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, lodging options, and upcoming events, visit the Katy Trail website.

Ohio to Erie Trail (Ohio)

• • Description: The Ohio to Erie Trail is a 326-mile route that traverses the state of Ohio from Cincinnati in the southwest to Cleveland in the northeast. This multi-use trail connects four major cities and crosses scenic countryside, charming small towns, and bustling urban centers. It is a combination of dedicated bike paths, converted rail trails, and lightly trafficked roads, offering cyclists a diverse and engaging experience.
  • Key Highlights: Begin your journey along the Ohio River in Cincinnati, pedal through the scenic Little Miami Scenic Trail, and explore the historic downtown of Xenia. Continue through Columbus, where you’ll find vibrant neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions. As you approach Cleveland, enjoy the beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with its lush landscapes and winding rivers. The trail culminates on the shores of Lake Erie, offering stunning views and opportunities to explore Cleveland’s waterfront.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, amenities, and trip planning resources, visit the Ohio to Erie Trail website.

Empire Trail (New York)

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, part of the Empire Trail

• • Description: The Empire State Trail is a 750-mile route that stretches from New York City to the Canadian border in Rouses Point, and from Albany to Buffalo. This extensive trail network connects urban centers, scenic countryside, and historic landmarks, making it one of the longest multi-use trails in the country.
  • Key Highlights: Explore the vibrant cultural attractions of New York City, ride along the scenic Hudson River Valley, and experience the historic Erie Canalway. Don’t miss the beautiful fall foliage in upstate New York.
  • Additional Information: For detailed maps, trail segments, and visitor resources, visit the Empire State Trail website.

The Best Cycling Routes on the West Coast

The Napa Valley Vine Trail (California)

• • Description: The Napa Valley Vine Trail offers cyclists a picturesque journey through one of California’s most famous wine regions. Spanning approximately 47 miles, this trail weaves through lush vineyards, charming small towns, and the rolling hills of the Napa Valley. The route is a mix of dedicated bike paths and shared roadways, providing a safe and scenic experience for riders of all levels.
  • Key Highlights: Pedal through world-renowned vineyards, stop for wine tastings at boutique wineries, and explore the quaint towns of Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga. The trail offers stunning views of the valley, especially during the harvest season when the vineyards are ablaze with autumn colors. Don’t miss the chance to visit local artisanal shops, gourmet restaurants, and historic landmarks along the way.
  • Additional Information: For detailed maps, trail updates, and information on local attractions, visit the Napa Valley Vine Trail website.

Photo: Napa Valley Tourism

Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway (Oregon)

• • Description: The Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway offers cyclists a delightful journey through Oregon’s picturesque wine country. This 132-mile route winds through lush vineyards, historic towns, and fertile farmland, providing riders with scenic views of the Cascade Range and the Willamette River.
  • Key Highlights: Take a leisurely ride past charming wineries and tasting rooms, explore the vibrant cities of Eugene and Salem, and enjoy the tranquility of the Willamette Valley’s pastoral landscapes.
  • Additional Information: For route details, accommodations, and local events, visit the Travel Oregon website.

San Juan Islands (Washington)

• • Description: Located in the serene waters of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands offer cyclists a unique blend of natural beauty and island charm. This scenic archipelago boasts rolling hills, pristine beaches, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains.
  • Key Highlights: Explore the islands’ quaint villages, pedal along quiet country roads, and take in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding waterways. Don’t miss the chance to spot orcas, eagles, and other wildlife along the way.
  • Additional Information: For ferry schedules, island maps, and cycling tips, visit the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau website.

The Best Cycling Routes on the East Coast

Cape Cod Rail Trail (Massachusetts)

• • Description: The Cape Cod Rail Trail offers cyclists a picturesque journey through one of Massachusetts’ most scenic regions. This 22-mile paved path follows the former Old Colony Railroad corridor, winding through quaint villages, cranberry bogs, and salt marshes on Cape Cod.
  • Key Highlights: Explore charming seaside towns like Brewster and Wellfleet, take a detour to Cape Cod National Seashore for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, and savor fresh seafood at local eateries along the way.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, parking information, and bike rental options, visit the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation website.

The Cape Cod River Trail

The New River Trail (Virginia)

• • Description: The New River Trail is a 57-mile state park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way in southwestern Virginia. This tranquil trail parallels the scenic New River and passes through lush forests, open farmlands, and historic sites.
  • Key Highlights: Experience the tranquil beauty of the New River, visit the historic Shot Tower, and enjoy the natural scenery and wildlife along the trail.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, camping information, and park regulations, visit the New River Trail State Park website.

Scenic Routes for Nature Lovers

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Cyclists on Going-to-the-Sun Road

• • Description: Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtakingly scenic route that traverses Glacier National Park in Montana. Spanning 50 miles, this engineering marvel winds through rugged mountains, glacier-carved valleys, and pristine alpine meadows. As one of the most scenic drives in the United States, it offers cyclists unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
  • Key Highlights: Cycle past iconic landmarks like Logan Pass, the Weeping Wall, and St. Mary Lake, keep an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats, and marvel at the park’s diverse ecosystem.
  • Additional Information: For road status updates, visitor center locations, and park regulations, visit the Glacier National Park website.

Shenandoah Valley (Virginia)

• • Description: The Shenandoah Valley is a picturesque region nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains in Virginia. Offering cyclists a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, this verdant valley features rolling hills, meandering rivers, and fertile farmland. The region’s scenic byways and quiet country roads provide ample opportunities for cyclists to explore charming towns, historic sites, and bucolic landscapes.
  • Key Highlights: Discover quaint villages like Lexington and Staunton, pedal along the scenic Shenandoah River, and soak in panoramic views of the valley from Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
  • Additional Information: For cycling routes, accommodations, and outdoor activities in the Shenandoah Valley, visit the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition website.

Great Allegheny Passage (Pennsylvania and Maryland)

The Great Allegheny Passage trail

• • Description: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is a premier rail-trail that spans 150 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland. Following the path of the historic Western Maryland Railway, this scenic route offers cyclists a gradual descent through the Allegheny Mountains, traversing lush forests, tranquil rivers, and charming small towns along the way.
  • Key Highlights: Cycle over iconic bridges like the Salisbury Viaduct and the Keystone Viaduct, pass through historic towns like Ohiopyle and Frostburg, and enjoy the convenience of amenities such as bike rentals, shuttle services, and trailside accommodations.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, trip planning resources, and trailside services, visit the Great Allegheny Passage website.

Urban Cycling Routes for City Explorers

Hudson River Greenway (New York City)

• • Description: The Hudson River Greenway is a scenic bikeway that runs along the western edge of Manhattan, offering cyclists stunning views of the Hudson River and the iconic New York City skyline. Stretching over 11 miles from Battery Park in the south to the George Washington Bridge in the north, this car-free path provides cyclists with a safe and enjoyable route for exploring the city’s waterfront attractions.
  • Key Highlights: Ride past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Chelsea Piers, and Riverside Park, take in panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty, and enjoy convenient access to parks, restaurants, and cultural institutions along the route.
  • Additional Information: For bike rental locations, rest areas, and upcoming events on the Hudson River Greenway, visit the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation website.

Lakefront Trail (Chicago)

Chicago Lake Front Trail

• • Description: The Lakefront Trail is a scenic cycling and jogging path that hugs the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, offering cyclists breathtaking views of the lake, the city skyline, and iconic landmarks. Stretching over 18 miles from Ardmore Avenue in the north to 71st Street in the south, this paved path provides cyclists with a convenient and picturesque route for exploring Chicago’s lakefront attractions.
  • Key Highlights: Pedal past popular beaches like North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach, cruise through bustling parks like Grant Park and Lincoln Park, and take in panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
  • Additional Information: For trail maps, bike rental options, and waterfront attractions along the Lakefront Trail, visit the Chicago Park District website.

The Embarcadero (San Francisco)

Embarcadero

• • Description: The Embarcadero is a vibrant waterfront promenade in San Francisco, offering cyclists a scenic route for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and waterfront attractions. Stretching from Fisherman’s Wharf in the north to AT&T Park in the south, this bustling thoroughfare features wide bike lanes, waterfront parks, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
  • Key Highlights: Cycle past iconic landmarks like Pier 39, the Ferry Building, and the Bay Bridge, stop for fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, and enjoy leisurely rides along the waterfront promenade.
  • Additional Information: For bike rental locations, dining options, and waterfront activities along the Embarcadero, visit the San Francisco Travel website.

Discover city cycling tips, bike-sharing programs, and guided tours at Bike League’s Urban Cycling Resources.

Final Thoughts

With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, the United States offers cyclists an endless array of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a challenging mountain climb, a leisurely coastal cruise, or an urban sightseeing tour, there’s a perfect bicycle route waiting to be discovered. By planning carefully, staying informed, and prioritizing safety, cyclists can enjoy the freedom, exhilaration, and sense of accomplishment that comes with exploring the open road on two wheels. So grab your bike, pack your gear, and embark on your next cycling adventure—it’s time to hit the road and discover the beauty of America from a whole new perspective. Happy riding!