Are you a biking enthusiast on the lookout for picturesque routes that offer both thrill and leisure? Look no further! America boasts of some of the most scenic and bike-friendly paths, each with its own unique charm. From breathtaking coastal views to mountain ranges painted in autumn hues, these routes cater to every kind of cycling experience. Join us as we explore America’s best bike-friendly scenic routes that should be on your bucket list!
Introduction
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or someone who’s just getting into the sport, bike riding is a great way to see America’s many scenic routes. From coast to coast, there are plenty of beautiful places to explore by bicycle. To help you plan your next biking adventure, we’ve put together a list of some of the best bike-friendly scenic routes in the country. So what makes a good scenic bike route? For starters, it should be relatively flat and have minimal traffic. The scenery should be beautiful and varied, with plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. And of course, it should be safe for cyclists of all skill levels.
East Coast Bike Routes
If you’re looking for some of the best bike routes in America, you’ll want to check out the East Coast. From Maine to Florida, there are plenty of scenic routes to explore by bicycle. Here are just a few of the best East Coast bike routes:
1. The Greenway Trail, Massachusetts: This scenic trail runs along the Charles River from Boston to Cambridge. It’s a great route for both beginner and experienced cyclists alike.
2. The Hudson River Greenway, New York: This popular greenway runs along the Hudson River from Manhattan to Albany. It’s a beautiful ride with plenty of places to stop and take in the views.
3. The Delaware & Raritan Canal, New Jersey: This idyllic canal path runs through rural areas of New Jersey and is perfect for a relaxed ride or a day of fishing.
Midwest Bike Routes
The Midwest is home to some of the best bike-friendly scenic routes in America. From the hilly terrain of the Ozarks to the flat plains of the Midwest, there are plenty of great options for cyclists looking to explore the region. Here are just a few of the best bike-friendly scenic routes in the Midwest:
The Katy Trail in Missouri is one of the most popular cycling trails in the country. The 225-mile trail runs from St. Charles to Clinton and features scenic views of the Missouri River along the way.
The Great River Road is a 2,320-mile route that follows along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. The road offers great views of riverfront towns and cities as well as wildlife along the river.
In Illinois, cyclists can enjoy riding along the Great Lakes Scenic Byway. This route runs along Lake Michigan from Chicago to Gary and offers beautiful views of both the city skyline and the lake itself.
Southern Bike Routes
Biking is a great way to see the country, and there are plenty of scenic routes in the southern United States that are perfect for a biking adventure. Here are some of the best southern bike routes:
The Gulf Coast: This route takes you along the Gulf of Mexico, from Florida to Texas. There are plenty of beach towns to explore, as well as some great seafood.
The Blue Ridge Parkway: This route runs through the Appalachian Mountains, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. There are also plenty of opportunities to stop and explore some of the small towns along the way.
The Natchez Trace Parkway: This route takes you through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. It’s a great way to see some of the history of the South, as well as some beautiful scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or an adventurous one, there’s sure to be a southern bike route that’s perfect for you. So get out there and explore!
Western Bike Routes
In the western United States, there are many scenic bike routes that are perfect for a cycling adventure. From the mountains of Colorado to the beaches of California, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery to enjoy while riding a bike. Here are some of the best bike-friendly scenic routes in the west:
1. The Gunnison River Trail in Gunnison, Colorado: This trail follows the Gunnison River through some of the most scenic mountain scenery in Colorado. It is a popular route for both road and mountain biking, and can be enjoyed by riders of all levels.
2. The American River Parkway in Sacramento, California: This route follows the American River through Sacramento, offering beautiful views of the cityscape along the way. It is a popular route for both recreational and commuter cyclists.
3. The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in Central Oregon: This byway takes cyclists through some of the most stunning lake and mountain scenery in Oregon. It is a popular route for road biking and has been designated as an official National Scenic Byway.
Tips for Planning a Scenic Road Trip on a Bicycle
“Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider, planning a scenic road trip on a bicycle is an excellent way to see America’s best scenery. Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
1. Choose your route based on your fitness level. If you’re an experienced cyclist, you may be able to handle longer distances and more challenging terrain. However, if you’re new to cycling or not in great shape, it’s important to choose a route that won’t exhaust you.
2. Consider the weather when planning your trip. If you’re riding in hot weather, make sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade. Likewise, if you’re riding in cold weather, dress warmly and be prepared for changing conditions.
3. Pack light! You’ll want to bring along some essential items like clothes, tools, and first-aid supplies, but try to keep your luggage light so that you can enjoy the ride.
4. Don’t forget about food and lodging. When planning your route, make sure to map out where you’ll be able to eat and stay overnight. This is especially important if you’re touring solo or with a small group.
5. Have fun! Remember that the goal of your trip is to see amazing scenery and have a good time doing it. So relax and enjoy the ride!”
Conclusion
America is packed with amazing bike-friendly routes that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re up for a challenging adventure through the countryside or prefer to take a leisurely ride along scenic coastlines, there’s sure to be something on this list of bike-friendly scenic routes that will evoke your sense of wanderlust. So grab your bicycle and get ready to explore some of America’s best bike-friendly scenic routes!