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Looking for the best bike trails in America? Whether you want a weekend loop on a converted rail corridor or a multi-week crossing of mountain passes, the right trail depends on your fitness, your tire width and how much you want to plan ahead. This guide compares ten well-known routes across the country. Our selection criteria are route length and surface, total elevation gain, how well the trail is documented and supported with services, and how suitable each route is for different skill levels. Everything here is based on published route specifications, agency and trail-association information, and common patterns in rider reports. We have not ridden these trails for this article, so check current conditions before you go.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Great Allegheny Passage | Relaxed multi-day touring | Mostly crushed limestone, very gentle grades |
| Katy Trail | First-time tourers | Long rail-trail corridor with frequent towns |
| Erie Canalway Trail | Flat, scenic riding | Canal towpath along historic waterway |
| Virginia Creeper Trail | Easy downhill day rides | Gradual descent from mountain summit |
| Northern Tier Route | Long-distance adventure | Crosses northern US on mixed roads |
| Trans America Trail | Experienced off-road riders | Rugged unpaved routing across states |
| Pacific Coast Route | Coastal scenery seekers | Dramatic ocean views with climbs |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | Mountain climbers | Long ridgeline riding with overlooks |
| Hiawatha Trail | Mountain rail trail fans | Tunnels and high trestles |
| Route 66 Bicycle Tour | Road-trip style touring | Historic highway with varied terrain |
Great Allegheny Passage (Pennsylvania and Maryland)
This route suits riders who want a long, gentle ride with reliable services and a clear surface. It is a strong first long-distance choice for groups with mixed experience.
Key specs
- Roughly 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, with a connection toward the C&O Canal
- Surface is mostly crushed limestone, with some paved sections
- Grades are generally gradual, with a total climb spread over long distances
- Towns and campgrounds appear at regular intervals along the corridor
Pros
- Very gentle grades suit loaded touring bikes
- Well-marked and widely documented
- Frequent lodging and food options in small towns
Cons
- Crushed limestone can feel slow and dusty in dry weather
- Popular sections can be busy on summer weekends
Katy Trail (Missouri)
The Katy Trail is a long former railroad corridor that works well for riders who want a flat, low-stress introduction to multi-day touring, with many towns along the way.
Key specs
- About 240 miles across Missouri, following the Missouri River for much of its length
- Surface is primarily crushed limestone, with some paved sections
- Very flat terrain with minimal elevation change
- Wayside towns and camping locations spaced for multi-day trips
Pros
- Flat profile makes daily distances predictable
- Abundant services compared with most rail trails
- Strong river scenery and historic small towns
Cons
- Flat, straight sections can feel monotonous for some riders
- Surface conditions vary after heavy rain
Erie Canalway Trail (New York)
This canal towpath route appeals to riders who want easy distances, wide-open views and a route that is easy to navigate without a detailed map.
Key specs
- Several hundred miles of connected trail following the historic Erie Canal
- Surface varies between paved, crushed stone and packed dirt
- Very low elevation gain overall
- Many communities and lock sites offer services
Pros
- Nearly flat, good for relaxed daily mileage
- Clear route orientation along the canal
- Good access points by train and car
Cons
- Surface changes can slow progress on certain sections
- Limited shade in some stretches
For planning how far to ride each day on flat routes like this, see Planning a Bike Tour: Route, Distance and Stops.
Virginia Creeper Trail (Virginia)
Ideal for riders who want a fun, mostly downhill ride with little effort on the climb. It is a favorite for families and riders new to hills.
Key specs
- About 35 miles from Whitetop Mountain down to Abingdon
- Surface is crushed stone and paved sections
- Total descent of roughly 2,000 feet, with a long gradual downhill
- Shuttle services are commonly used for the uphill portion
Pros
- Mostly downhill, very approachable for beginners
- Scenic mountain forest and trestle bridges
- Strong local support and services
Cons
- Fast downhill speeds require careful braking
- Busy on weekends during peak seasons
Northern Tier Route (Washington to Maine)
This is a long-distance option for experienced riders who want a cross-country adventure on mostly paved roads, with planning and navigation as key skills.
Key specs
- Roughly 4,200 miles across the northern United States
- Mostly paved roads, with some shoulder-limited sections
- Significant climbs across mountain regions
- Services are spaced widely in rural stretches
Pros
- Iconic cross-country scale
- Well-documented route options through the Adventure Cycling Association
- Diverse scenery from coast to coast
Cons
- Long gaps between services demand careful supply planning
- Shoulder width varies on some rural highways
For route-finding on long tours like this, see Finding Bike Touring Routes: Maps, USBRS and Navigation and Navigation for Bike Touring: GPS, Maps and Backups.
Trans America Trail (Multiple States)
Built for experienced off-road riders who want a rugged, unpaved adventure and are comfortable with self-sufficiency.
Key specs
- Long multi-state route of unpaved and mixed surfaces
- Requires wider tires and a durable touring or gravel setup
- Substantial elevation gain across varied terrain
- Remote sections with limited services
Pros
- Remote, varied scenery off the beaten path
- Strong community of experienced riders and resources
- Tests equipment and self-reliance thoroughly
Cons
- Demanding physically and mentally for most riders
- Route conditions change with weather and maintenance
Before attempting a rough route like this, review Pre-Ride Inspection for Touring Bikes and Common Touring Bike Repairs on the Road.
Pacific Coast Route (California, Oregon and Washington)
This coastal route suits riders who want dramatic ocean views and are ready for steady climbs and changing weather.
Key specs
- Long coastal corridor along the Pacific shoreline
- Mostly paved roads, with shoulder widths that vary
- Repeated climbs with significant total elevation gain
- Campgrounds and towns spaced along the coast
Pros
- Outstanding coastal views and scenery
- Good services in towns along the route
- Well-established touring corridor
Cons
- Coastal wind and fog can affect pacing
- Traffic on some highway sections needs careful riding
For roadside visibility and rules, see Road Safety for Bike Tourists: Visibility and Rules.
Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)
A strong pick for riders who enjoy long climbs and sweeping ridgeline views, and who do not mind traveling at a moderate pace.
Key specs
- About 469 miles of scenic parkway between Virginia and North Carolina
- Paved surface with a dedicated scenic-road character
- Frequent climbs and descents along the ridge
- Campgrounds and lodges at regular intervals
Pros
- Spectacular overlooks and mountain views
- Paved surface suits most road-capable bikes
- Good camping along the parkway
Cons
- Sustained climbs can be tiring with a loaded bike
- Weather at elevation can change quickly
For choosing where to sleep along a route like this, see Where to Stay on a Bike Tour: Camping, Hosts, Hotels.
Hiawatha Trail (Idaho)
This rail trail is a good match for riders who enjoy engineering history, tunnels and high trestle views, and who want a shuttle-supported downhill day.
Key specs
- About 15 miles of rail trail through the Idaho Bitterroot mountains
- Crushed surface along a former railroad bed
- Several tunnels and high trestles along the route
- Access is commonly arranged through local shuttle services
Pros
- Unique tunnels and trestle bridges
- Mostly gradual descent makes it accessible
- Striking mountain scenery
Cons
- Shuttle logistics require advance planning
- Tunnels can be dark and cold, so carry lights
Route 66 Bicycle Tour (Illinois to California)
Best for riders who want a road-trip feel, historic towns and a route that mixes highway riding with quieter byways.
Key specs
- Roughly 2,400 miles along the historic Route 66 corridor
- Mixed surface, mostly paved, with segments of frontage roads
- Varied terrain with plains, desert and mountain sections
- Towns and motels spaced across the route
Pros
- Rich history and vintage roadside stops
- Variety of landscapes across the route
- Plenty of lodging options in small towns
Cons
- Some sections share busy traffic lanes
- Long desert stretches require careful water planning
For planning food and water on remote sections, see Food and Water on Bike Tours: Safety and Planning.
Buying Guide
Choosing among the best bike trails in America comes down to matching the route to your riding ability, your bike and the time you have. Use the criteria below to narrow your list.
Selection Criteria
- Distance per day: Decide how many miles you can ride comfortably with your load.
- Total elevation gain: Long, gradual climbs and short steep ones demand different fitness.
- Surface: Paved, crushed stone, gravel and dirt each affect speed and tire choice.
- Services: Towns, water sources and campgrounds determine how much you must carry.
- Navigation difficulty: Well-marked corridors are easier than loosely defined routes.
Important Features to Look For
- Surface width and tire compatibility with your bike
- Service spacing, including lodging, food and water
- Seasonal closures and maintenance schedules
- Access points for transport and shuttles
Specs to Check Before You Ride
- Official route distance and total ascent
- Maximum grade on steep sections
- Surface type reported by trail managers
- Minimum recommended tire width
Choosing by Need
- Beginners: Start with flat or downhill routes such as rail trails and the Virginia Creeper Trail.
- Relaxed multi-day touring: Choose corridors with frequent towns and gentle grades.
- Scenic climbing: The Blue Ridge Parkway and Pacific Coast Route reward strong legs.
- Long-distance adventure: The Northern Tier Route or Route 66 suit committed riders.
- Off-road challenge: The Trans America Trail rewards experienced, well-equipped riders.
Things to Watch Out For
- Seasonal closures on high-elevation and mountain routes
- Long gaps between services on remote sections
- Weather changes, especially wind, heat and sudden storms
- Traffic on shared roads and highway shoulders
For help packing for these conditions, see Bike Tour Packing List: What to Take and How and Bike Touring Safety: Bike Checks, Roads, Weather, Help.
FAQ
What is the easiest of the best bike trails in America?
Rail trails with gentle grades, such as the Katy Trail and the Great Allegheny Passage, are generally considered approachable. The Virginia Creeper Trail is also easy for beginners because it is mostly downhill.
Do I need a special bike for these trails?
Not always. Many rail trails are rideable on hybrid or touring bikes with moderately wide tires. Rougher routes like the Trans America Trail call for wider tires and a more durable setup.
How long does a multi-day trail take?
It depends on distance, fitness and load. Many riders plan 40 to 60 miles per day on flat corridors and less on mountainous routes. Plan with Planning a Bike Tour: Route, Distance and Stops.
Where should I sleep on a long trail?
Options include campgrounds, hotels, hosts and hostels. See Where to Stay on a Bike Tour: Camping, Hosts, Hotels for a comparison.
How do I find the route and stay on course?
Use a combination of printed maps, GPS and a backup. The guide Navigation for Bike Touring: GPS, Maps and Backups explains a practical approach.
Is it safe to ride these routes alone?
Many riders do so safely, but preparation matters. Carry repair tools, water and communication devices, and tell someone your plan. For roadside safety, review Road Safety for Bike Tourists: Visibility and Rules.
Should I consult a professional before a long tour?
If you have a medical condition, a history of injury or concerns about endurance, consult a doctor or qualified coach before undertaking a demanding route. Training guidance is available in Training for a Bike Tour: Building Up Gradually.
Conclusion
The best bike trails in America span a wide range of difficulty, scenery and commitment. For beginners and families, the Katy Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail and Erie Canalway Trail offer approachable riding. Riders who want scenic climbs should look at the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pacific Coast Route. Those seeking a long-distance challenge can consider the Northern Tier Route or Route 66, while experienced off-road riders may find the Trans America Trail rewarding. Match the route to your fitness, bike and time, confirm current conditions with trail managers, and plan your supplies accordingly.
