Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the USA's diverse landscapes - from the rugged mountains of the west to the charming small towns of the east.
Whether you're an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge or a beginner seeking a leisurely ride, there are countless routes to suit every skill level and interest.
Here are 10 cycling routes in the USA, including information on distance, difficulty level, and the best time of year to ride each route.
Pacific Coast Highway - California
Distance: 1,700 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Best time to ride: May to October
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most iconic cycling routes in the world. This stunning route runs along the California coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The weather is mild, making it an ideal destination for cycling during the summer months. The route is relatively flat, with some hills and curves, making it suitable for intermediate-level cyclists. Along the way, you'll pass through charming beach towns, historic lighthouses, and scenic state parks.
Going-to-the-Sun Road - Montana
Distance: 50 miles
Difficulty: Advanced
Best time to ride: June to September
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a stunning route through Glacier National Park in Montana. This 50-mile route takes cyclists on a winding journey through the mountains, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the country.
The route begins at the west entrance of the park and climbs over 6,600 feet to the summit at Logan Pass. Along the way, you'll pass waterfalls, glaciers, and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Due to the steep climbs and narrow roads, this route is not recommended for beginner cyclists. However, experienced cyclists will love the challenge and the incredible scenery.
The best time to cycle the Going-to-the-Sun Road is in late summer when the weather is mild, and the road is fully open. The road can be closed due to snowfall from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly.
The Katy Trail - Missouri
Distance: 240 miles
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Best time to ride: Spring and fall
The Katy Trail is a scenic route through Missouri, following the path of an old railroad. The mostly flat terrain and few steep inclines make it a great option for beginner and intermediate cyclists. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy charming small towns, historic sites, and beautiful views of the Missouri River. The best time to ride is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.
The Great Allegheny Passage - Pennsylvania and Maryland
Distance: 150 miles
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Best time to ride: Spring and fall
The Great Allegheny Passage is a scenic route through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning views of the region's forests, rivers, and small towns. The mostly flat terrain and gradual inclines make it a great option for beginner and intermediate cyclists. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy historic sites, charming small towns, and beautiful views of the mountains. The best time to ride is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.
The Natchez Trace Parkway - Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee
Distance: 444 miles
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Best time to ride: Spring and fall
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile long route that runs from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. This historic route follows the path of the old Natchez Trace, which was a trail used by Native Americans and early European settlers.
The route is mostly flat, with some rolling hills, and is ideal for cyclists of all levels. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque towns, historic sites, and beautiful forests.
The Natchez Trace Parkway has plenty of amenities, including campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas. However, there are few services available between towns, so be sure to bring plenty of food and water.
The best time to cycle the Natchez Trace Parkway is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most colorful. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and wet.
The White Rim Trail - Utah
Distance: 100 miles
Difficulty: Advanced
Best time to ride: Spring and fall
The White Rim Trail is a challenging route through the Canyonlands National Park in Utah, offering stunning views of the region's red rock formations, canyons, and mesas. The technical terrain, steep climbs, and
narrow roads make it a difficult ride for even experienced cyclists. However, the stunning views of the park's geological formations and unique wildlife make it an unforgettable experience. The best time to ride is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the trail is less crowded.
The Blue Ridge Parkway - Virginia and North Carolina
Distance: 469 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Best time to ride: Spring and fall
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that runs from Virginia to North Carolina. This route is a favorite among cyclists for its stunning mountain views, beautiful forests, and quaint towns.
The route is mostly mountainous and can be challenging, with steep climbs and descents. However, there are plenty of rest areas and scenic overlooks along the way to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is open year-round, but the best time to cycle the route is in the fall when the leaves are changing
The Cape Cod Rail Trail - Massachusetts
Distance: 22 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to ride: Summer and fall
The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a flat and easy route through Cape Cod, Massachusetts, following the path of an old railroad. The mostly flat terrain and few steep inclines make it a great option for beginner cyclists. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean, charming small towns, and scenic salt marshes. The best time to ride is in the summer or fall when the weather is warm and the scenery is at its best.
The Great River Road - Minnesota
Distance: 575 miles
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Best time to ride: Summer and fall
The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile long scenic drive that follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route has become increasingly popular for cyclists, offering an amazing opportunity to explore the heartland of America. The Great River Road is a combination of roads that are often small and quiet, with very little traffic, making it an ideal route for cycling.
Starting in northern Minnesota, the Great River Road takes you through some of the most scenic areas in the state, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, quaint towns, and historic sites. As you continue south, the landscape begins to change, with rolling hills and forests giving way to swamps and bayous.
The route is marked with signs, and there are plenty of amenities along the way, including restaurants, lodging, and bike shops. With a moderate difficulty level, this route is perfect for cyclists of all experience levels, but be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially in the hotter and more humid southern portions of the route.
The best time to cycle the Great River Road is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most vibrant. However, be aware that the route can be busy during peak travel times, so plan accordingly.
The Olympic Discovery Trail - Washington
Distance: 130 miles
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Best time to ride: Summer and fall
The Olympic Discovery Trail is a scenic route through the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, offering beautiful views of the region's forests, lakes, and rugged coastline. The mostly flat terrain and few steep inclines make it a great option for beginner and intermediate cyclists. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy charming small towns, historic sites, and beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains. The best time to ride is in the summer or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.
The USA is a cyclist's paradise with an abundance of breathtaking landscapes and diverse routes to explore. Whether you're seeking a challenging mountain climb or a leisurely ride through quaint towns, the USA has something to offer for every type of cyclist.
The country's vast and varied terrain makes it a prime destination for cyclists from around the world. Imagine cycling through the stunning red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, or riding along the Pacific Coast Highway with the ocean breeze in your face. Picture yourself exploring the historic small towns along the Blue Ridge Parkway or taking in the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Cycling in the USA is not just about the physical challenge, it's about experiencing the unique culture and natural wonders of the country. From the sun-drenched beaches of Florida to the majestic mountains of Montana, the country offers a diverse range of landscapes that will leave you awe-inspired and wanting more.
So, pack your bags, bring your bike, and come experience the beauty and adventure of cycling in the USA. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there is a route waiting for you to explore and memories waiting to be made. The USA awaits you, ready to offer the ultimate cycling experience of a lifetime.