30 Best Cycling Tours & Destinations in the USA

Cycling is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to travel. But why limit your cycling skill to just a means of transport? If you are a cycling enthusiast residing in the US or planning to visit different regions of the country, cycling can be the best means to explore nature.

In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with details of the 30 best destinations to visit while cycling in the USA.

Visit some of the best bicycle trails in the USA starting from Wisconsin to Miami. Following is the list of top 30 destinations.

1. Highway One, California

Highway One situated in Big Sur, is an ideal trail to cycle around the Pacific coastline of California. Considered as a biker’s paradise, you can cruise down long stretches of unspoiled shoreline paired with ocean breezes and dramatic views.

Several cycling events take place here, encouraging both avid and novice riders. However, new cyclists must be aware of the car traffic on some narrow shoulders along the path.

• Distance: 145 km
• Route: Carmel to Cambria
• Activities: Visit Ragged Point, Hearst Castle and McWay Falls. Go surfing and cruising along Cliffside Road
• Best Time: September to November

2. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Set off on an amazing bike excursion through Utah's breathtaking, Canyonlands National Park offers some of the world’s most astounding bends, cliffs, craters, canyons, mesas and monuments. Pedal across the park's many landscapes, which include the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Island in the Sky and the canyons of the Needles District.

• Distance: 82.07 km.
• Route: Dead Horse Point State Park to San Juan County.
• Activities: Ride in islands of deep canyons and mesas and visit Mesa Arch to witness sunset or sunrise.
• Best Time: April to May; September to October

3. Flume Trail, Nevada

Escape to Nevada's stunning coastlines by embarking on the Flume Trail, a classic cycling route famed for its panoramic vistas. Admire the blue seas below and the distant snow-capped summits, making it perfect for a cycling tour in the USA. While the weather in Flume Trail is unpredictable, cyclists indulge here for leisurely pursuits.

• Distance: 22.53 km.
• Route: Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake along the Flume Trail
• Activities: Sightseeing at Lake Tahoe from Marlette Peak and swimming at Marlette Lake
• Best Time: May to October

4. Shark Valley Trail, Florida

The Shark Valley Trail provides a one-of-a-kind cycling adventure through the world-renowned Everglades National Park. Alligators lazing in the sun, birds flying above, and turtles gently crossing your path are all sights to behold.The climate remains warm and humid in summers and mostly pleasant in winters.

• Distance: 24 km.
• Route: Loop trail adjacent to Miccosukee Indian Reservation.
• Activities: Birds, turtles and alligator spotting. Visit the observation tower at Everglades and Shark Valley Visitor Centre.
• Best Time: November to April.

5. Hiline Trail, Arizona

The Hiline Trail in Sedona, Arizona is an ideal bicycle destination in the USA, promising an amazing journey among the beautiful red rock landscapes for thrill-seeking bikers. This trail rewards your efforts with breathtaking views of Sedona's distinctive red rock formations and the surrounding desert.

• Distance: 5 km.
• Route: Top of Mesa to Baldwin Loop along the red rocks edge.
• Activities: Explore the landscape of Sedona and Cathedral Rock and enjoy high desert surroundings.
• Best Time: July to September.

6. Trail 401, Colorado

Crested Butte, Colorado, is a mountain biking paradise, and Trail 401 is one of the region's most picturesque landscapes. The trail’s finely built flow sections and difficult climbs provide a well-balanced experience for riders of all ability levels.The region experiences a cool climate making it ideal for some adventurous cyclists.

• Distance: 22.53 km.
• Route: Schofield Pass to Gothic Road.
• Activities: Enjoy the views of Crested Butte Valley and Elk Mountains and adorn the wildflowers.
• Best Time:  June to August.

7. Copper Harbour Trails, Michigan

The Copper Harbour Trails, located on Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula, is a truly hidden gem for cyclists cycling in the USA. This network of world-class trails offers riders of all skill levels an exciting experience with flowing single-track and exhilarating downhill descents.Summers are warm and windy and appropriate for cycling.

• Distance: 64.37 km.
• Route: Around Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula.
• Activities: Visit the shoreline of Lake Superior and enjoy technical challenges and berms along the Flow trail. You can also visit Brockway Mountain.
• Best Time: Summer or early fall.

8. Laurel Mountain Ride, North Carolina

Located in the heart of North Carolina's Brevard County, the ride in Laurel Mountain gives the cyclist an exhilarating experience. Ascend hard slopes to witness rewarding panoramic views, such as beautiful waterfalls and rocky mountain summits.Winters are moderate while summers are exceedingly warm in North Carolina.

• Distance: Interconnected trails of over 40 km.
• Route: Brevard to Laurel Mountain trail loop.
• Activities: Enjoy the beauty of mountain streams and waterfalls and engage in wildlife sightings of white-tailed tigers and black bears.
• Best Time: March to May and September to November.

9. Forbidden Fruit, Idaho

Explore the allure of Forbidden Fruit while cycling in the US, which is an amazing mountain biking course that promises a memorable trip in Sun Valley, Idaho. This steep single-track trail through the Sawtooth Mountains offers a view of incredible vistas of alpine meadows and mountain peaks.

• Distance: 2.09 km.
• Route: Eve’s Gulch along Forbidden Fruit trail.
• Activities: Watch stunning views of the Wood River Valley and the Sawtooth Mountains and enjoy bathing in hot springs.
• Best Time: March to October.

10. Going to the Sun Road, Montana

In Whitefish, Montana, embark on a cycling adventure along Glacier National Park's crown gem, Going-to-the-Sun Road. You'll see stunning panoramas and encounter various species, including bighorn sheep and mountain goats, as you bike through this engineering wonder.

• Distance: 80.47 km
• Route: Apgar Visitor Centre to Logan Pass through Glacier National Park.
• Activities: Enjoy mountain photography of the alpine lakes, carved valleys and mountain peaks. Also, visit Avalanche Creek and Logan Pass.
• Best Time: March to October.

11. McKenzie River Trail, Oregon

The McKenzie River Trail, located near Bend, Oregon, is a renowned destination for mountain bikers. This 26-mile track displays the Cascade Range's unique splendour, with magnificent waterfalls, volcanic landscape, and tranquil alpine meadows.The region experiences cool and wet climate.

• Distance: 40.23 km.
• Route: Along the route of Cascade Mountains.
• Activities: You can cycle through Douglas fir and western red cedar forests and visit Koosah and Sahalie Falls.
• Best Time: March to October.

12. Maah Daah Hey Trail, North Dakota

Want to witness the untamed beauty of nature in North Dakota? Then, Maah Daah Hey Trail is the perfect trail for your cycling tour in the USA. This long track takes you on an adventure through forests, canyons and eye-catching landscapes.The region experiences continental climate with very hot summers and extremely cold winters.

• Distance: 232 km.
• Route: Little Missouri River to Devil’s Pass along North Dakota’s Badlands.
• Activities: Indulge yourself in wildlife sightings, camping and enjoy the landscapes of natural formations.
• Best Time: April to September.

13. Captain Ahab Trail, Utah

The Captain Ahab Trail in Moab, Utah, is a must-ride for thrill-seeking mountain cyclists. This challenging course is tucked among the area's distinctive red rock vistas. Here, you can take in the beautiful views of the Colorado River and its neighbouring valleys.

• Distance: 6.9 km.
• Route: Amasa Black Trailhead along the Captain Ahab loop.
• Activities: Enjoy the views of the Colorado River and canyons surrounding it.
• Best Time: April to September.

14. Swamp Rabbit Trail, South Carolina

Discover the allure of Greenville, South Carolina's Swamp Rabbit Trail, a picturesque path for cycling in the USA that weaves through the centre of the city. This 22-mile multi-use route follows an old railway track, providing a pleasant and comfortable ride for riders who are beginners and seasoned.Winters here are moderate and ideal for cycling.

• Distance: 35.41 km.
• Route: Foothills of Blue Ridge Mountain along Reedy River.
• Activities: Explore Greenville and its culture and cuisine and visit Falls Park to marvel at the Liberty Bridge.
• Best Time: Spring or fall season.

15. Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia

In the Damascus area of Virginia is a scenic and leisurely trail called Virginia Creeper Trail which is heaven for recreational cyclists. This trail crosses over the historic railway trestles and passes through ethnic rural villages, allowing cyclists to enjoy the vibrant culture of the area.

• Distance: 55 km.
• Route: Abingdon to Damascus.
• Activities: Cross the trestle bridge to visit the Appalachian Mountains and indulge in the Southern cuisines of Abingdon.
• Best Time: Spring and fall season.

16. Dirty Kanza Half Print, Kansas

For dirt cyclists, cycling in the US is incomplete without participating in the trail of Dirty Kanza Half-Pint in Kansas. This gravel race takes you through the picturesque Flint Hills region, which is famed for its plains, valleys and rugged hills. Test your endurance and tenacity as you face the difficult terrain and changing weather conditions that make this race both challenging and rewarding.

• Distance: 179 km.
• Route: Different routes are available as per the choice of rider.
• Activities: Enjoy the post-ride festivities of the Dirty Kanza Half Pint event in Emporia.
• Best Time: March to June.

17. Mt. Evans Climb, Colorado

Take up the task of climbing Mt. Evans in Colorado, one of the highest paved highways in North America. This arduous trek begins at Idaho Springs and lasts 28 kilometres to a height of 14,130 feet.However, the climate is cool and dry.

• Distance: 42 km.
• Route: Idaho Springs to the summit of Mt. Evans via Colorado State Highway 5.
• Activities: You can indulge in photography of alpine forests and mountain lakes and get a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains and its valleys.
• Best Time: April to June.

18. Tour of the Battenkill, New York

Experience the exhilaration of road cycling through New York's picturesque Battenkill area. The Tour of the Battenkill is a cycling event for professionals that mixes rolling hills, scenic farms, and old covered bridges.While summers are warm and humid, winters are extremely cold.

• Distance: Varies as per the category of race.
• Route: Washington County along towns such as Salem and Cambridge.
• Activities: Challenge yourself in the thrilling mountain descents and rolling hills and enjoy the local community.
• Best Time: April.

19. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

This bicycle destination in the USA runs for 469 miles through the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, providing bikers with breathtaking views at every turn. Pedal through verdant woods, flowing waterfalls, and brilliant wildflower meadows on meandering roads.

• Distance: 755 km.
• Route: Asheville, North Carolina to Brevard via God’s country.
• Activities: Enjoy the views and indulge in photography in the Blue Ridge Mountains and experience lush flora and fauna alongside the trail.
• Best Time: Spring or Fall.

20. Crater Lake Loop, Oregon

Explore the incredible scenery of Crater Lake National Park on the Crater Lake Loop in Oregon. Admire the towering cliffs that surround the lake, which were produced by a collapsed volcanic caldera. As you pedal through old-growth woods, you will experience the serenity of the park's pure wildness.

• Distance: 53.12 km.
• Route: Rim Village to Park Headquarters.
• Activities: Visit different viewpoints around the lake such as Cloudcap Overlook and Watchman Overlook.
• Best Time: Summer to early fall.

21. A Ride Through Time, Utah

As you begin on "A Ride Through Time" amid Utah's magnificent landscapes, you will be transported back in time. This cycling tour in the USA explores Utah's geological treasures, including ancient rock formations, towering cliffs, and desert landscapes.

• Distance: 240 km.
• Route: Bryce to Escalante via Cannonville, Henrieville, Tropic and Dixie National Forest.
• Activities: You can visit Canyonlands National Park, Zion National Park and Capitol Reef National Park. Also, photograph the famous Hogback formation.
• Best Time: Spring and fall.

22. Sea to Summit, California

The Sea to Summit route in California is the ultimate cycling challenge. This amazing trip will take you from the seaside town of Ventura to the peak of Mt. Pinos, with an elevation gain of almost 8,000 feet.Temperatures are warm and comfortable in spring making it ideal for a cycling adventure.

• Distance: 100 km.
• Route: San Francisco to Mt. Tamalpais via Marin Headlands and Golden Gate Bridge.
• Activities: Enjoy leisure time at Stinson and Muir beaches and visit the redwood forest to enjoy wildlife and flora.
• Best Time: Late spring to fall.

23. The Katy Trail, Missouri

This gorgeous route takes you through picturesque scenery, small villages, and historical sites. Experience the warmth of the trailside settlements, where you may sample local cuisine and learn about the region's rich cultural legacy.

• Distance: 386 km.
• Route: Rocheport to McKittrick along the Missouri Kansas Texas Railroad.
• Activities: Go on a trip around the Missouri River and experience the local culture and cuisines.
• Best Time: September and October.

24. The Pinky Traverse, Michigan

The Pinky Traverse takes you on an off-road trip across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This 150-mile mountain bike route takes you through a variety of scenery, from deep woods to gorgeous Lake Michigan coasts. Immerse yourself in the woods' seclusion, experience wildlife, and camp beneath the stars.

• Distance: 114 km.
• Route: Traverse City to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore.
• Activities: Visit cherry orchards and vineyards, beaches, ports and lighthouses on your route.
• Best Time: May.

25. Little Switzerland, Texas

Discover Little Switzerland, a hidden gem for road cycling in the middle of Texas Hill Country. This gorgeous road winds through rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and quaint tiny villages. Cycle past gorgeous landscapes and through tiny German-inspired villages while enjoying the smooth and twisting roads.The region experiences rainfall throughout the year.

• Distance: 102 km.
• Route: Fredericksburg along the Texas Hill Country.
• Activities: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills comprising Little Switzerland, that is, Swiss Miss, Grinder and Mt. Crabapple.
• Best Time: Spring to fall.

26. Grand Rounds Loop, Minnesota

The Grand Rounds Loop is an urban bicycling destination in the USA which is a paradise in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This 50-mile circle connects several parks, lakes, and beautiful trails, providing a varied and spectacular riding experience.

• Distance: 82 km.
• Route: Minneapolis and along the Grand Rounds.
• Activities: Visit the chain of lakes and Minnehaha Falls.
• Best Time: March to June.

27. Jackson Hole Circuit, Idaho

Wyoming has a beautiful region for cycle lovers to ride along stunning scenery, which is the Jackson Hole. This circuit is well-known for the Teton Range and the scenic beauty it holds. It is also the perfect cycling destination in the country for novice and seasoned cyclists.

• Distance: 37 km.
• Route: Jackson to Moran.
• Activities: Visit the Grand Teton National Park, Jackson and Jenny Lake and the Snake River.
• Best Time: April to May and September to October.

28. Down Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona

Prepare for an exciting cycling adventure in Arizona's gorgeous Oak Creek Canyon. This exhilarating route for cycling in the USA begins in the lovely town of Flagstaff and leads you into a canyon created by the rushing waters of Oak Creek.

• Distance: 47 km.
• Route: Flagstaff Arizona Sedona via Mogollon Rim and Oak Creek Canyon.
• Activities: Explore Sedona city and enjoy the canyon walls along the trail.
• Best Time: October to November.

29. Down the Delaware Coast, Delaware

While cycling down the Delaware Coast, pass through coastal villages and soak in the laid-back beach atmosphere along the route. Discover wildlife refuges, picturesque boardwalks, and historic lighthouses while immersing yourself in the region's coastal culture.The climate here remains humid and temperate.

• Distance: 62 km.
• Route: Rehoboth Beach to Fenwick Island.
• Activities: Witness the beach dunes of the Atlantic Ocean and visit Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Delaware Seashore State Park.
• Best Time: June to August.

30. Covered Bridge Metric Century, Pennsylvania

The Covered Bridge Metric Century route takes you through Pennsylvania's lovely countryside. This gorgeous cycling route winds through picturesque farmland, charming villages, and old-covered bridges.However, the region has a humid and continental climate.

• Distance: 103 km.
• Route: Surrounding Lancaster.
• Activities: Explore Pennsylvania Dutch Country and the Amish culture of the region.
• Best Time: Late spring or early fall.