Last updated June 17, 2024
Trust us, discovering a way to unplug, recharge and experience the world at a more grounded pace is a rare gem. Cycling trips provide precisely that opportunity. A cycling trip allows you to view the world through a fresh lens, propelled by your own strength and determination.
Beyond its undeniable physical benefits, such as improving cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility, cycling also offers a profound mental health boost. Cycling for mental wellness reduces stress, enhances your mood and elevates your overall well-being.
Jump to:
- Pacific Coast Highway — California
- Blue Ridge Parkway — Virginia to North Carolina
- Going-to-the-Sun Road — Glacier National Park, Montana
- Great Allegheny Passage & C&O Canal Towpath — Pennsylvania to Washington, D.C.
- Natchez Trace Parkway — Mississippi to Tennessee
- Katy Trail — Missouri
- Silver Comet Trail — Georgia to Alabama
- Lake Tahoe Loop — California to Nevada
- San Juan Islands — Washington
Cycling trips have called to many, including Jedidiah Jenkins, who turned his sojourn from Oregon to Patagonia into an inspiring narrative of self-discovery and connection.
Like Jenkins, cyclists across the U.S. and beyond find that two-wheeled journeys provide a unique blend of adventure, challenge and introspection, fostering deep connections with nature and the communities they pass through.
For those inspired to embark on their own cycling odyssey, the U.S. weaves an intricate network of cycling paths and mountain bike trails spanning diverse landscapes, from coastal vistas to mountain passes.
Nine Cycling Trips Across the U.S.
Here are nine scenic cycling trips and routes for a memorable experience, along with recommendations for rejuvenating accommodations post-ride.
1. Pacific Coast Highway — California
Start at the Oregon border and cycle down to San Diego. This route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, towering redwoods and quaint coastal towns.
Where to Stay: Post Ranch Inn offers a romantic hideaway built into the cliffs overlooking the dramatic Big Sur coastline.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway — Virginia to North Carolina
Winding through the Appalachian Highlands, this route features stunning mountain scenery, lush forests and a seriously peaceful atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Asheville, North Carolina, is home to a vibrant arts scene, delicious grub and amazing bluegrass music. We think The Omni Grove Park Inn provides a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road — Glacier National Park, Montana
This challenging route takes cyclists through the heart of Glacier National Park. The dramatic terrain offers vistas of glaciers, alpine meadows and pristine lakes.
Where to Stay: Historic lodges, like Many Glacier Hotel, offer a restful stay amidst the park’s natural beauty.
4. Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath — Pennsylvania to Washington, D.C.
This trail combo takes riders on a journey through America’s industrial past. The spectacular trail winds from the steel city of Pittsburgh to the nation’s capital, traversing forests, rivers and historic towns.
Where to Stay: In Cumberland, Maryland, the Fairfield Inn & Suites provides a comfortable midpoint break. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, D.C., offers luxury at the end of the trail.
5. Natchez Trace Parkway — Mississippi to Tennessee
This historic trail offers a ride through time, exploring the natural beauty and history of the Deep South, from Antebellum homes to ancient Native American sites.
Where to Stay: The charming city of Franklin, Tennessee, features delightful accommodations. Harpeth Hotel is nestled in a community rich with history and Southern hospitality.
6. Katy Trail — Missouri
America’s longest continuous rail-trail meanders through Missouri’s scenic heartland, offering views of the Missouri River, limestone cliffs and rolling vineyards.
Where to Stay: In Rocheport, School House Bed & Breakfast provides a quaint and historic resting spot.
7. Silver Comet Trail — Georgia to Alabama
This seamless connection of trails offers cyclists a scenic journey from the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, to Anniston, Alabama, covering approximately 95 miles. The route passes through small towns, lush forests and over trestle bridges—providing a flat and smooth path ideal for cyclists looking for a leisurely ride or a long-distance challenge.
Where to Stay: Once you reach Anniston, Hotel Finial offers a blend of Southern charm and elegance to rest weary legs.
8. Lake Tahoe Loop — California to Nevada
Circling the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe Loop is a spectacular 72-mile journey that offers breathtaking views. Think lake, the Sierra Nevada mountains and an ever-changing landscape that shifts from dense forests to sandy beaches. This route is a must for cyclists looking to combine natural beauty with physical challenge.
Where to Stay: For a more intimate experience, Forest Suites Resort offers cozy cabins and suites. This lodging makes a perfect basecamp for your cycling adventure.
9. San Juan Islands — Washington
Explore the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest by cycling through the San Juan Islands. Each ferry-connected island offers unique landscapes, from the rolling hills of San Juan Island to the quiet coves of Orcas Island—providing a peaceful retreat with roads less traveled by vehicles.
Where to Stay: On San Juan Island, Friday Harbor House perfectly complements the island experience with harbor views and comfortable accommodations. On Orcas Island, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a more rustic stay with cabins, yurts and soothing spa.
Pedaling the American Way
Each of these routes offers not only a physical challenge but a journey into the heart of America’s breathtaking and diverse landscapes. Cycling trips such as these allow adventurers to connect with nature, history and communities in a deeply personal way.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or new to long-distance biking, the trails of the U.S. beckon with adventures that promise to enrich your body, mind and soul.
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