Cycling enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and thrilling adventures will find North America’s scenic cycling trails irresistible. These trails offer a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests to stunning coastlines. With an abundance of options, cyclists can explore the continent’s natural beauty while enjoying a healthy, exhilarating activity. The best trails combine scenic beauty, varied terrain, and well-maintained paths, ensuring a memorable experience for riders of all levels.
Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest boasts some of the most picturesque cycling routes in North America. The Pacific Coast Route offers stunning ocean views, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. Cyclists can enjoy the sight of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and serene farmlands along this route. The trail stretches from the Canadian border to the Mexican border, providing ample opportunities for adventure and exploration. Cyclists can stop at various points of interest, including historic landmarks, state parks, and quaint villages.
The Olympic Discovery Trail in Washington State spans over 130 miles, offering a mix of coastal scenery, dense forests, and mountain views. This trail is well-marked and suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. Riders can start in the town of Port Townsend and make their way to the Pacific Ocean, experiencing diverse landscapes and wildlife along the way. The trail also features several segments that are paved, making it accessible for all types of bikes.
Oregon’s Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway is another must-ride trail, known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque farmlands. Cyclists can enjoy a leisurely ride through this fertile valley, stopping at wineries and tasting local produce. The trail covers over 130 miles, with numerous opportunities for side trips to explore charming small towns and historic sites. This scenic route is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature and culture.
Scenic Cycling Trails in the Rockies
The Rocky Mountains offer some of the most challenging and scenic cycling trails in North America. The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is a bucket-list ride for many cyclists. Stretching over 2,700 miles from Canada to Mexico, this trail takes riders through remote wilderness areas, high mountain passes, and scenic valleys. The route is well-known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views, making it a favorite among adventure cyclists.
Colorado’s Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is another iconic cycling destination. This road reaches elevations of over 12,000 feet, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Cyclists can experience the thrill of riding above the tree line, with opportunities to see wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots. The trail is best ridden in the summer months when the road is free of snow and ice.
Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, offers several scenic cycling trails, including the Bow Valley Parkway. This trail provides stunning views of the Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes, and dense forests. Cyclists can enjoy a peaceful ride through this UNESCO World Heritage site, with opportunities to stop at viewpoints, picnic areas, and hiking trails. The park’s well-maintained paths and abundant wildlife make it a top choice for nature lovers.
Northeast
The Northeast region of the United States offers a variety of scenic cycling trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty and historic charm. The Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts is a popular route that takes cyclists through quaint towns, marshlands, and coastal dunes. The 25-mile trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels. Along the way, cyclists can stop at beaches, lighthouses, and local eateries.
Vermont’s Island Line Rail Trail offers spectacular views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains. This 14-mile trail includes a unique bike ferry ride to connect the islands, providing a memorable experience for cyclists. The trail is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for families and casual riders. Cyclists can explore the scenic waterfront, visit historic sites, and enjoy the local cuisine.
The Erie Canalway Trail in New York spans over 360 miles, following the historic Erie Canal. This trail offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with opportunities to visit charming villages, museums, and parks. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for long-distance rides. Cyclists can experience the rich history of the canal while enjoying the diverse landscapes of upstate New York.
Scenic Cycling Trails in the Southwest
The Southwest region of the United States offers unique and stunning landscapes for cyclists to explore. The Red Rock Scenic Byway in Arizona is a must-ride trail that takes cyclists through the heart of Sedona’s red rock country. This 7.5-mile trail offers breathtaking views of towering red rock formations, lush forests, and vibrant desert landscapes. Cyclists can enjoy a challenging ride with several steep climbs and descents, rewarded with stunning panoramic views.
Utah’s Moab area is renowned for its world-class mountain biking trails, including the Slickrock Bike Trail. This 10.5-mile trail offers a unique riding experience on smooth sandstone surfaces, with challenging climbs and thrilling descents. The trail provides stunning views of the surrounding canyons, mesas, and the Colorado River. Cyclists can also explore other nearby trails, such as the Porcupine Rim Trail and the Whole Enchilada, for even more adventure.
The Santa Fe Rail Trail in New Mexico offers a scenic ride through high desert landscapes, historic sites, and charming small towns. This 17-mile trail follows the route of an old railway line, providing a mix of paved and unpaved sections. Cyclists can enjoy the unique beauty of the Southwest, with opportunities to visit art galleries, museums, and local markets. The trail is suitable for riders of all levels, with plenty of options for side trips and exploration.
