Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Bike trails in Miami FL range from a shaded, car-free corridor under the Metrorail to waterfront paths along Biscayne Bay and long causeway rides into the Keys. This guide walks you through the main routes, how to judge distance and surface before you commit, and where to base yourself for a day ride or a multi-day trip. By the end, you should be able to pick a route that fits your fitness, your bike, and the weather.

Why Miami Works for Cycling (and Where It Doesn’t)

Miami is flat, warm, and mostly low in elevation, which makes it approachable for beginners and comfortable for long days in the saddle. Total climbing on most urban routes is measured in tens of feet, not hundreds. The tradeoffs are heat, humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and traffic on arterial roads that do not have bike lanes. Most riders plan their rides for early morning and stick to the dedicated paths whenever they can.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 6 Best Bike Trails in United States for Every Rider (2026).

Wind is the other factor to watch. Coastal routes and causeways are open to sea breezes, so a route that feels easy going out can feel hard on the way back. Check the forecast direction, not just the speed, before you pick a loop.

The Main Bike Trails in Miami FL

The routes below are the ones most local riders and visitors use. Distances are approximate and depend on where you start, so treat them as planning figures and verify on a current map before you ride.

The Underline (Brickell to Dadeland)

The Underline is a linear park built beneath the Metrorail guideway along US-1. It runs roughly 10 miles from the Miami River area south toward Dadeland, with a separated multi-use path, sections of paved trail, and frequent crossings at major intersections. It is the most relaxed option in the city and a good choice for families or a first ride on an unfamiliar bike. Expect pedestrians and joggers, so keep your speed moderate.

Rickenbacker Causeway (Key Biscayne)

The Rickenbacker Causeway links the mainland to Key Biscayne and has a dedicated bike path on the shoulder. A round trip to Crandon Park and back is commonly ridden as an out-and-back of roughly 20 to 25 miles depending on where you turn around. The causeway is exposed, so wind and sun are real considerations. Stop at the bay-side viewpoints and keep an eye on the traffic lanes at the bridge approaches.

Biscayne Bay Trail and Bayfront Park Area

Downtown and Biscayne Boulevard connect to waterfront paths around Bayfront Park, Museum Park, and the Venetian Causeway. The Venetian Causeway is a historic, tree-lined route between islands and is best ridden at a relaxed pace because it is narrow and busy with walkers and scooters. These connections are useful for shorter loops of 5 to 12 miles that combine city views with water views.

Old Cutler Road and the South Miami Corridor

Old Cutler Road is a scenic, tree-canopied road through the Cutler Bay and Coral Gables area. It is popular with road riders for its shade and quiet stretches, but it has narrow shoulders in places, so ride single file and use lights. Loops that combine Old Cutler with neighborhood streets can reach 25 to 40 miles, and the surface is generally smooth asphalt.

Black Point Marina and Homestead Routes

South of the city, Black Point Marina and the Homestead area offer longer rides with farm-country scenery and fewer stoplights. Route distance here depends heavily on which roads you link together, and some sections have higher-speed traffic. Plan your turnaround points in advance and carry extra water, since services can be sparse.

The Overseas Heritage and Keys Corridor

For a long-distance option, the Overseas Highway toward the Keys is one of the best-known rides in the state. Shoulder widths vary, and the highway carries heavy traffic and trucks, so experienced riders usually plan this as a self-supported trip with lights, a mirror, and a clear route to the next town. Many riders break the journey into day segments and book lodging along the way.

Miami Beach Boardwalk and Ocean Drive

Miami Beach has a seaside boardwalk and beach-side paths that are flat, scenic, and very busy on weekends. It suits casual riding and sunset outings rather than training. Expect tourists, slow-moving pedestrians, and frequent stops.

How to Choose the Right Route for You

Choosing between these options comes down to a few measurable factors. Work through them in order before you commit to a route.

Step 1: Match the Surface to Your Bike

A road bike with narrow tires handles smooth asphalt on causeways and Old Cutler well. Hybrids and gravel-capable bikes are more comfortable on mixed surfaces and older path sections. Check whether a trail has rough patches, roots, or painted-line transitions that may be slippery when wet.

Step 2: Estimate Your Distance and Time

As a planning rule, many recreational riders average about 10 to 12 miles per hour on flat paths, and slower with stops and wind. Multiply your target distance by your expected pace, then add 20 percent for stops. A 25-mile causeway ride may take about two and a half hours of riding time, plus breaks.

Step 3: Check Wind and Weather

Look at the wind direction and speed on the forecast. A headwind on the return leg of a causeway ride can add noticeable effort. Afternoon storms are common from late spring through early fall, so start early and watch the radar.

Step 4: Plan Your Lodging and Logistics

Staying near the route you want saves time and gives you a fallback if weather changes. Choose a base near the Brickell or Downtown corridor for city loops, near Key Biscayne for causeway rides, or in Homestead for the southern routes. Confirm bike storage and parking before you book.

Step 5: Pick a Turnaround Point

Every out-and-back should have a planned turnaround and an escape route. Note bike shops, water refill points, and transit stops along the way so you can shorten the ride if needed.

Route Comparison at a Glance

Route Approx. Distance Surface Difficulty Best For
The Underline About 10 miles Paved multi-use path Easy Families, first rides
Rickenbacker Causeway 20 to 25 miles round trip Asphalt, shoulder lane Easy to moderate Scenic bay views
Venetian Causeway 3 to 5 miles Paved, narrow Easy Short city loops
Old Cutler Road loops 25 to 40 miles Smooth asphalt Moderate Shaded road riding
Overseas Highway Long-distance, multi-day Asphalt, variable shoulders Advanced Touring and self-supported trips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Riding midday in summer. Heat and humidity build quickly, and thunderstorms are common after noon. Start early.
  • Ignoring the wind. A pleasant start can turn into a grind on the way home. Check direction before you pick a loop.
  • Skipping lights and reflectors. Even daytime rides on Old Cutler or the causeways benefit from visibility aids.
  • Underestimating water needs. Humidity makes you sweat without feeling thirsty. Carry more than you think you need.
  • Assuming every path is continuous. Connections between trails often use road sections. Download an offline map before you leave.
  • Riding too fast on shared paths. The Underline and boardwalks carry pedestrians. Slow down and announce passes.

Tips for a Better Miami Ride

  1. Carry a tube or tire repair kit, since debris and sand can cause flats on busy paths.
  2. Use a bike computer or phone app to track distance and elevation, even though climbing is minimal.
  3. Plan a sunscreen and sun-sleeve routine; the causeways offer little shade.
  4. Ride on weekdays for quieter paths, especially on the Venetian Causeway and boardwalks.
  5. Check local advisories for path closures, construction, or event-day restrictions before you go.

A few items make a noticeable difference on Miami routes, where heat, sun, and sand are the main challenges. Choose gear based on the surface and the distance you plan to ride.

  • A hydration pack or two bottle cages. Humidity hides how much you are sweating, so carrying extra water matters on long causeway or Keys rides. View on Amazon
  • A compact bike repair kit with tire levers. Sand and debris on shared paths make flats more likely, and a kit keeps a short delay from becoming a long walk. View on Amazon
  • Front and rear bike lights. Useful for early starts, late returns, and shaded stretches of Old Cutler Road. View on Amazon
  • A cycling sun sleeve or light long-sleeve jersey. Exposed causeway sections make sun protection practical, not just comfortable. View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the best beginner bike trail in Miami FL?

The Underline is the most beginner-friendly option. It is paved, mostly separated from traffic, and offers short sections you can ride and turn back from at any point.

Is Miami good for road biking?

Yes, especially on the Rickenbacker Causeway and Old Cutler Road. Both offer smooth asphalt and longer distances, but you should ride defensively and use lights.

How long is the Rickenbacker Causeway bike ride?

A round trip to Key Biscayne and back is roughly 20 to 25 miles, depending on where you turn around. Check current maps for exact mileage from your starting point.

Are there bike trails in Miami that are flat?

Almost all Miami routes are flat, with climbing measured in tens of feet. The main effort usually comes from wind, heat, and distance rather than hills.

When is the best time of year to ride in Miami?

Late fall through early spring is the most comfortable, with lower humidity and fewer afternoon storms. Summer rides are best started early in the morning.

Do I need a special bike for Miami trails?

No. A road bike suits causeways and Old Cutler, while a hybrid or comfort bike works well on the Underline and boardwalks. Choose tires that match the surfaces you plan to ride.

Can I ride from Miami to the Keys?

Yes, but the Overseas Highway carries heavy traffic and has variable shoulders. Experienced riders usually plan the trip in day segments, with lodging booked along the way and full lighting and visibility gear. Consult a local cycling group or guide for current road conditions before attempting it.

Conclusion

Bike trails in Miami FL offer a wide range of options, from the shaded, car-free Underline to long causeway rides and touring routes south to the Keys. Match the surface and distance to your bike and fitness, check the wind and weather, and plan a turnaround point before you leave. Start early, carry more water than you think you need, and enjoy one of the flattest and most varied urban riding areas in the country.

Ready to choose one?

Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our bike touring & bikepacking guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.