Scenic Routes of the United States to Bike
Bicycling can be a great way to see America's beautiful scenery and get some exercise at the same time.
If you ever thought about touring some of the most beautiful places in the USA by bike, it is not crazy. It is a perfectly possible (and desirable) plan. We tell you what are the scenic routes in the United States to travel by bicycle.
Cycling is not only great for your health, it also produces no emissions, making it a sustainable form of transportation. Plus, it's so much fun!
In this huge country you can find interesting trails to explore in more urban places or, on the contrary, in regions where nature gives the visitor the best of itself. Here we list some of the most scenic bike routes in the United States.
Cycling America's Scenic Routes
The United States boasts a wide variety of scenic bike routes, offering breathtaking scenery and unique experiences.
The country is full of beautiful landscapes and cycling is an excellent alternative to access incredible places. There are plenty of routes to choose from, whether you are an experienced cyclist or just starting out. Cycling is good for health and the environment. It's also a lot of fun!
If you're planning a bike trip, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose a route that suits your level of experience. There are many easy trails, with many services, suitable for beginners, and also more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.
- Be sure to pack all the necessary equipment, including a helmet, water, and snacks.
- Plan your route and give yourself plenty of time to complete it. This will help you avoid getting lost or riding your bike for too long.
- Take breaks often to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. It runs along the California coast, offering stunning views of the ocean, and is approximately 650 miles long.
It reaches from north of San Francisco to the border with Mexico. It offers stunning views of the Pacific, picturesque beaches, and adorable beach towns.
It's important to know that there are some hills to contend with, but there are plenty of great places to stop and explore along the way. The most recommended are Big Sur, Muir Woods and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Big Sur: Charms of the Big Sur
Big Sur is a beautiful stretch of the coast in central California. It has spectacular cliffs and panoramic views that you will never forget. There are many hiking trails to explore, as well as beaches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
One of the favorite spots in Big Sur is Pfeiffer Beach. This beach is known for its colorful rocks and stunning views. It is ideal for surfing and bodyboarding. In addition, there are fantastic places to stay, from boutique hotels to campsites with very good services.
Muir forest
If you're lucky enough to bike the Big Sur, you can't skip Muir Woods, which is a forest located north of San Francisco. It is home to some of the tallest trees in the world and is very popular for walks, picnicking and getting up close with nature.
Tip: Try the blueberry pie, cioppino (a seafood stew), and sourdough bread.
Carmel-By-The-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town located on the Monterey Peninsula. It is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful coastline. It is a beautiful city to explore on foot or by bicycle. There are many great places to stop and have a bite to eat, as well as hotels and bed & breakfasts.
We recommend visiting the Carmel Art Association, a gallery that features local and regional artists, with a wide variety of artwork. Includes paintings, sculptures, photographs and more. There is also a cafeteria on site, making it the perfect place to relax after a long hike or bike ride.
Other scenic routes in the USA to ride a bike
- National Parks Trail (Utah, Arizona, Colorado): This trail runs through some of the most famous national parks in the United States, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and the Grand Canyon. Cyclists will be able to enjoy majestic canyons, unique rock formations and stunning landscapes.
- Finger Lakes Trail (New York): This trail is in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Travel through various glacial lakes and beautiful landscapes, passing picturesque villages, vineyards and rolling hills.
- Mississippi River Trail Route (Minnesota to Louisiana): This route follows the Mississippi River for approximately 3,000 miles, from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana. Riders will experience the beauty of the river, pass through historic cities, and soak up southern culture.
- Blue Ridge Parkway Route (Virginia and North Carolina): This scenic route follows the Blue Ridge Parkway, a winding road through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cyclists will enjoy scenic views, lush forests, waterfalls and the opportunity to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath Route (Pennsylvania to Washington, D.C.): This route combines the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath for a trip of approximately 335 miles. Cyclists will pass through tunnels, historic bridges and natural areas, such as the C&O Canal National Park.
These are just a few of the many scenic biking routes in the United States. Each offers its own charm and its own challenges. The key is to research and plan properly to find the right option, knowing the necessary data about distance, terrain, security and services available along the route.
Without a doubt, a bicycle trip through some places in the United States is a fascinating experience to do alone, as a couple or with the family. You just have to cheer up