The Best Bike Trail in Every State
Updated: Nov. 28, 2022
Time to put your two-wheeler to good use on these scenic, fun bike paths—one in each state.
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The joy of bike riding
Bicycling is as popular as ever, with sales of two-wheelers skyrocketing—many retailers have bikes on backorder. Whether you bought a bike well before the pandemic or snagged one before they sold out—or maybe you’re just dreaming about outdoor cycling adventures—there’s plenty of places to saddle up and get riding right in your home state. (Don’t own a bike yet? Find out how to choose the best bike for you.) To help narrow down the best bike trails across the country, we spoke to experts in the bike industry and those on local tourism boards, plus scouted reviews on sites like TrailLink and AllTrails. Here, top miles to trek on your bicycle and what to expect on the route as you spin along.
Alabama: The Cheaha Challenge Route
This organized ride covers up to 126 miles, with steep climbs and drastic downhills along the way. So prepare for a thrilling trek—one that’s not necessarily for the inexperienced or those looking for an easy, casual ride. The journey is worth it, though, because according to the Alabama Tourism Board, you get some of the most scenic views in the state—it may be a challenge to keep your eyes on the road as your pedal through Cheaha State Park. New to cycling? Check out the Chief Ladiga Trail, which is a shorter journey within the Cheaha Challenge Route, but still spans 33 miles. The flat rail-trail will have you pedaling under pine and dogwood trees, past deer, fox, and other wildlife, and whizzing by views of mountains and rural lands. Better yet: There are plenty of rest stops along the way to fuel up and kick back for as long as you need.
Alaska: Alyeska Bike Park
About 45 minutes south of Anchorage, you’ll find Alyeska Resort, which features the only downhill bike park, complete with two lifts for access to the top, in the state. You have 10 trail options for how to make your descent, which can stretch up to 1,700 feet. The most popular trail in the park, according to the Alaska Travel Industry, is Tanaka Grass Lands, an intermediate trail that offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and waters. After biking, pamper yourself with spa treatments and dinner out at the resort. If you’re looking for a camp experience, check out these summer camps for grownups.
Arizona: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead
Located in Scottsdale, this trail system in the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy offers countless route options, whether you’re a new biker looking for smooth singletracks and shorter rides or you have more experience and want to play around on rocky, more technical terrain or go for longer miles. It’s a favorite of pro road racer Lindsay Goldman, who suggests planning your route ahead of time and bringing plenty of water—considering the trails curve around the desert, you’ll want lots of H2O on hand. Find out how Arizona and the other 49 states got their names.
Arkansas: Razorback Regional Greenway
Spanning about 36 miles from Bentonville to Fayetteville in North West Arkansas, the Razorback Regional Greenway is a paved path that allows for stops along the way. You can grab a drink or a snack before you head out from Bentonville, with options to pause at parks and near lakes as you travel by two-wheeler. Giani Madrid, an ambassador for Chamois Butt’r, a skin lubricant for cyclists, says to keep an eye out for mural paintings and a few pub stops, too. Discover the most beautiful lakes in America for swimming.
California: Griffith Park
Ride the paved road that circles the Los Angeles park, Griffith Park Drive, and at the top of a small climb, (what the locals call “Trash Trucks”) you’ll find a bright yellow gate that leads to a paved road that’s closed to cars. Jenn Kriske, founder of Machines for Freedom, a women’s cycling apparel company, says you’ll feel like a VIP as you cruise past crowds on your two-wheeler and make your way to the Griffith Observatory, where you’ll find 360-degree views of Los Angeles. Keep climbing or cruise back down to the bike path—there’s plenty of ways to ride within the park. “When you’re done, be sure to stop by Spoke Bicycle Cafe right off the bike path for their breakfast sandwich and home fries—I’m obsessed,” Kriske says.
Colorado: Waterton Canyon and Chatfield State Park
Colorado has endless options for places to bike around—and an extra altitude challenge too. This out-and-back gem, located in Littleton, has several options if you want to go far or keep it short. It’s recommended by Deanna McCurdy, triathlete and ambassador for Pearl Izumi and Honey Stinger, who says the lower elevation and low grade make the trail a good option for beginners. (Just keep in mind, it can get crowded!) You’ll cycle along the South Platte River, likely spotting wildlife, like sheep, deer, trout, and even mountain lions, bears, and rattlesnakes. Waterton Canyon Trailhead is also the starting point for the 567-mile Colorado Trail, so if you’re looking for more adventures in the Rocky Mountains, veer off onto that singletrack.
Connecticut: Norbrook Farm Trail
This approachable mountain biking area, complete with beginner trails, is located right next to the Norbrook Farm Brewery, so you can enjoy a cold beverage after riding. Andrea Theon, a graphic designer for GT bicycles, loves heading here for a bit of natural downhill. “I enjoy riding here because the trails spill out in the same area, giving it a bike park feel without the lift access,” she says. After biking, check out the most charming small town in every state.
Delaware: Gordons Pond Trail
You’ll travel around marches, dunes, and forest lands on this 3.2-mile, flat and fast trail in Cape Henlopen Park along the Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, or migrating waterfowl. Along the route, you’ll also spot observation towers from World War II, which you can climb (without your bike) for panoramic views of Delaware Beaches. Find out the best beach in every state.
Florida: Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Ride right through the Florida Everglades on more than 40 miles of gravel road in this wildlife-filled park in Boyton Beach, home to alligators, deer, and birds. Liv Cycling ambassador, Damaris Barrios, recommends this area for all levels and suggests heading out early in the day with lots of liquids to stay hydrated in the southern sun. Here are the best state parks to visit in every state.
Georgia: Blankets Creek
If you’re new to mountain biking, check out the Mosquito Flats trail in this singletrack system, located a short drive from Atlanta. It’s another favorite of McCurdy. When you’re ready to progress, check out Dwelling Loop, stretching 3.8 miles and offering a sweet view of Lake Allatoona.
Hawaii: Ke Ala Hele Makalae
On the island of Kaui, you’ll find a bike path with lots of beachy views that’ll leave you feeling accomplished yet calm. The name translates to “The Path that Goes By Coast,” and, as you might guess, the seven-mile path hugs the shoreline. Currently, two sections (Lydgate Park to Wailua Beach Park and Kapa’a to Ahihi Point) have a two-mile gap between, but you can continue on the road to make it one ride—just be careful of cars. Start early enough and you’ll witness an incredible sunrise to make it even more stunning. Instead of trying to figure out how to transport your bicycle, rent one at Hele on Kauai Bike Rentals. Find out 11 things you need to know before you book your Hawaii vacation.
Idaho: Harriman Trail
This gravel pathway reaches from the Sawtooth National Recreation Area headquarters to Galena Lodge in Ketchum and covers 18 miles one way. The easy-to-ride route offers beautiful green scenery and has many entry points. Liv Cycling ambassador, Karoline Droege, suggests stopping for lunch at Galena Lodge, but mentions those last six miles to your meal are the toughest, thanks to a decent climb. So get ready to work for it.
Illinois: Tunnel Hill State Trail
Ride the full 45 miles, one way, on the Tunnel Hill State Trail or make your trip a little shorter with an earlier turnaround anywhere along the path. Stop off at Cache River State Natural Area—a hotspot for those who love wildlife as it’s home to more than 100 endangered species. Throughout the trail, you’ll climb hills and weave through dark tunnels as you pass by seven towns.
Indiana: Cardinal Greenway
The longest bike trail in Indiana, Cardinal Greenway spans 62 miles, passing through the small towns of Marian, Gas City, Jonesboro, Gaston, Muncie, Blountsville, Losantville, Economy, Williamsburg, Webster, and Richmond—all good spots for stopping to explore. Over the course of the miles, you’ll see wildflowers, bridges, tunnels, general stores, and places to grab a bite or a beverage.
Iowa: High Trestle Trail
Famous for its 130-foot-tall High Trestle bridge—complete with a rail-trail art installation that features blue LED lights and a few lookout points—this bike path brings in lots of visitors. Along the 25-mile route, you’ll pedal through five towns, with options to stop at coffee houses, food trucks, ice cream shops, and more along the way. Discover 14 of America’s lesser-known bridges.
Kansas: Prairie Spirit Trail
Get a 52-mile glimpse of pure Kansas on this path, which also connects to the Flint Hills Nature Trail in the north and the Southwind Rail Trail in the south. With a mix of tree coverings and open spaces ahead, you’ll roll by streams, farms, and towns, too. If you want to stop for lunch or pick a place to explore, there are many communities along the route.
Kentucky: Legacy Trail
The longest, multi-use paved path in Kentucky, Legacy Trail opened in 2010 and now has lots of top reviews. Easy to access from Lexington, it will soon span 12 miles, with art installations, lessons on local history, and green, park-filled scenery to enjoy as you ride.
Louisiana: Tammany Trace Trail
Converted from the Illinois Central Railroad, this 31-mile rail-trail sits north of New Orleans. “The Trace” offers lots of Louisiana culture just off the route, passing through the towns of Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, and Lacombe. You’ll get parks, wetlands, oak trees and pines, historic landmarks, and interesting places to explore, like the Abita Mystery House. Spin to Fontainebleau State Park for more trails, campsites, boating, and swimming. On the way to Covington, you may drive over the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, one of the longest bridges in the world.
Maine: Eastern Trail
You’ll transverse dirt, gravel, and sand on the Eastern Trail (part of the East Coast Greenway) which spans more than 20 miles along Maine’s southern coast from Bug Light to Kennebunk. Complete with lots of New England vibes and even sights of a lighthouse, Steve Lyons, director of the Maine Office of Tourism, says the best views are through the Scarborough Marsh, where you can spot kayakers and shorebirds.
Maryland: Great Allegheny Passage
You can actually hit a few states on the GAP trail, if you want to complete the entire thing (that’s 150 miles!). It links Cumberland, Maryland to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. While the trail is mostly flat, you can do a quick ride or go for many miles. There are two key spots on the Maryland route: crossing the Mason-Dixon Line, the original boundary between Maryland and Pennsylvania, and crossing the Eastern Continental Divide, where the continental plates meet and the Atlantic Seaboard and Gulf of Mexico split—it’s also the highest point on the trail, reaching nearly 2,400 feet above sea level.
Massachusetts: Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
Cycle past the Cheshire Reservoir and the Hoosic River as you ride the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, running through the towns of Cheshire, Lanesborough, and Adams in western Massachusetts. You have plenty of space to roam on the 10-foot wide path that spans just under 13 miles—a perfect distance for an out-and-back ride.
Michigan: Leelanau TART Trail
The Leelanau TART Trail covers 17 miles past forests, farmland, lakes, ponds, and even vineyards, where you can hop off your bike to enjoy some vino just a few miles off the trail as you pedal through Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties. You can also explore the nearby DeYoung Natural Area, a great spot to kayak, fish, and birdwatch. The Michigan Tourism Board suggests checking out the trail in the fall—prime time for pretty sights. Wine lovers won’t want to miss these 20 photos of the most gorgeous wineries in the world.
Minnesota: Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Explore Minneapolis’s park system by traveling on a two-wheeler through the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. It’s a 51-mile loop throughout the entire city, which shows you the gems of the urban area. As you ride, you’ll catch city skyline views and water-driven scenes, including that of the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Falls, the Chain of Lakes, and the downtown riverfront. Outdoor lovers will also want to know the best hiking trail in every state.
Mississippi: Tanglefoot Trail
Winding through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi Hills National Heritage Area, the Tanglefoot Trail covers more than 43 miles. On the path, you’ll take a spin through fields, forests, meadows, and wetlands, and some of the state’s small towns that span from New Albany to Houston. This path is also on the Rail Trail Hall of Fame list.
Missouri: Interurban Road from Ferrelview to Dearborn
Curt Shelman, the chief operating officer of Chamois Butt’r, reports that this route is a favorite of local bikers in the Kansas City area. Start on Interurban Road in Ferrelview and follow it to Dearborn for a nearly 17-mile point-to-point ride. The road previously served as a railway and now offers a smooth, fast day of cycling, with water, restrooms, and small-town sights along the way. You’ll also want to add these 15 incredible American campsites to your bucket list.
Montana: The Whitefish Trail
It’s definitely difficult to choose one must-do bike trail in Montana. Home to Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest, and Big Sky Resort (to name a few popular spots), you have countless options for routes. One place to add to the list: The Whitefish Trail in the town of Whitefish, a 43-mile route with 14 trailheads where you can start cycling. Around every corner, you’ll see a new jaw-dropping landscape, from glassy lakes to green mountains. Find out 15 of the best national park road trips you can take all year round.
Nebraska: Cowboy Trail
The longest path in Nebraska, you could hit almost 200 miles if you spin down the limestone and gravel Cowboy Trail from Norfolk to Valentine. Ride the entire path, from Norfolk to Chadron (that’s 321 miles!) and you’ll conquer the largest rails-to-trails project in the United States. Hop on at one of the 15 communities along the path, many of which offer camping if you want a multi-day trip. You’ll spot several bridges along the route, including the 148-foot tall structure overlooking the Niobrara River and another that spans 595 feet in length and 145 feet in height as it stretches over Long Pine Creek.
Nevada:Â Tahoe-Pyramid Trail
New Hampshire: Northern Rail Trail section of the Granite State Rail Trail
While the full Granite State Rail Trail spans 120 miles, the Northern Rail Trail makes up the longest portion running from Boscawen to Lebanon for 58 miles. You can stop to eat at several spots along this path and even pause to power up your e-bike with charging stations along the way. Dave Topham, New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition Director, says some people bike the full 58 miles in one day, but many others opt to make it a two-day trip, staying overnight in Danbury.
New Jersey: Paulinskill Valley Trail
Check out rural New Jersey, filled with forests, wetlands, and small towns, along this route, located in Kittatinny Valley State Park. You’re likely to catch sight of beautiful birds, considering more than 100 species find a home in the land near the path. As a little reward for riding all day: Stop by the Milk Street Distillery, located in a building that’s 125 years old and close to the trail.
New Mexico: Winsor Trail
Head to the Santa Fe National Forest for this ride, featuring nine miles of moderately difficult mountain biking. Take a shuttle to the top (reaching about 11,000 feet, so be prepared for altitude) and enjoy the ride back down. Expect a creek crossing, beautiful mountain views, and tree-lined trails.
New York: South Park to Fuhrman Blvd/Outer Harbor
Sure, you could ride around New York City’s Central Park or along the Westside Highway along the Hudson River on the promenade. But about six hours north, in Buffalo, you’ll find a 15-mile route that Liv Cycling ambassador, Jenn Kowalik, strongly recommends. Start in South Park surrounding the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Olmstead Parks Conservancy. Connect via Ridge Road to join Fuhrman Boulevard to ride along the water of Lake Erie. All together it makes for a relaxing, casual ride.
North Carolina: Sky Valley Road
Hit the gravel on Sun Valley Road in Dupont Forest, starting from Guion Farm Trailhead, a favorite of Elizabeth Walker, the Liv Racing team manager. Ride out as far as you can, then turn back when you’re ready. No matter how far you go, you’re likely to experience minimal traffic, gentle climbs, and plenty of farmland views. Looking to camp this season? For a more luxurious experience, check out these cool camping spots.
North Dakota: Maah Daah Hey Trail
Tackle the badlands of North Dakota on this 144-mile stretch of single track, closed to motorized vehicles. Choose from eight segments to ride, with six points of entry along the trail—and ten campgrounds if you want to make it a multi-day trip. No matter where you spin, you’ll get stunning, unique nature views. Just plan your trip ahead of time, as some parts of the path can make for difficult rides.
Ohio: Ohio to Erie Trail
Technically, you can hit all three major Ohio cities—Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati—on this trail, but considering it’s 326 miles one way from Cincinnati to Cleveland, you might want to choose a section of it for your weekend ride.
Oklahoma: Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
Ride the Red, Blue, Yellow or Pink trail in the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, each varying in distance and difficulty. You can also test out the 25 miles of unmarked trails throughout the park. Located just ten minutes from downtown Tulsa, you have views of a pond, the Arkansas River, and fun twists and turns to look forward to as you ride.
Oregon: Sisemore and Tumalo Reservoir Road
Bend is an outdoor adventurer’s dream come true and this ride, suggested by Serena Bishop Gordon, a pro mountain biker and cyclocross athlete with Liv, gives you a little taste of why that holds true. Traveling on a 13-mile out-and-back gravel path, you’ll see amazing views of the Cascade Mountains, with little traffic around you. You’ll also spot the Three Sisters volcanic peaks (shown) and the Skyline Forest.
Pennsylvania: D&L Rail Trail
You have 165 miles to explore Pennsylvania, from Wilkes Barre to Philadelphia on the gravel packed D&L Rail Trail. Hop on at any trailhead, each a few miles apart. One suggestion: the charming little town of Jim Thorpe, nestled into the Leigh Gorge, where you can park, eat, and hop on the route. You’ll ride along the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers through most of the path, also passing towns like New Hope and Washington Crossing, where Liv ambassador, Jessica Nankman, says you can watch a re-enactment of George Washington’s Revolutionary War river crossing in December.
Rhode Island: Blackstone River Bikeway
Get a bit of history on this route, stretching from Worcester, Massachusettes, to Providence. It extends along the Blackstone River, aka the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution and home to some of the first water-powered mills. You’ll ride through the Blackstone River Valley National Park on the 48-mile Blackstone River Bikeway where you pedal through trees and near wildlife like hawks, turtles, frogs, and fish.
South Carolina: Prisma Swamp Rabbit Trail
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced rider, you’ll love the Prisma Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile path. It flows along the Reedy River and through Greenville, where it passes by Falls on the Reedy, a beautiful green space that’s a great place to step off your saddle and explore.
South Dakota: Mickelson Trail
Weaving through the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mickelson Trail reaches 109 miles. A rail-trail, you’ll spot railroad bridges and rock tunnels throughout the century ride. Cycle north to south and you’ll pedal on a downhill for more of the ride, making it easier on your legs and giving you a little more freedom to enjoy the super green and tree-filled landscape.
Tennessee: Shelby Farms Greenline
Once you’ve had your fill eating barbecue and checking out Graceland, check out this 10.65-mile point-to-point rail-trail in Memphis, perfect for a nice casual ride. Start in Midtown Memphis and pedal to Shelby Farms Park, where you can break for ziplining or kayaking. Need to rent a bike? Reserve in advance and pick up at Hyde Lake Wheel House. Graceland is the most well-known house in Tennessee—find out the most famous house in your state.
Texas: Big Bend Ranch State Park
In the more than 280,000-acre Big Bend Ranch State Park in West Texas, you have plenty (and we mean plenty) of options for where to bike. Travel Texas suggests a few trails: Dome Loop, the Fresno-Sauceda Loop, Sauceda to Solitario Loop, and the Fresno Divide Loop. River Road, which parallels the Rio Grande River is also popular for bikers. No matter what you choose, you’ll see a beautiful, vast desert landscape with cool rock formations. Try to stay overnight to experience some amazing stargazing.
Utah: Park City Town Loop
You can hop on the Park City Town Loop from almost anywhere in town, but a good place to start is Kimball Junction. Take the long way to conquer about 15 miles, or cut it in half by turning right at Old Ranch Road. A favorite of Christian Schauf, founder of gear brand, Uncharted Supply Company, it’s an awesome road ride, with beautiful mountains and rolling hills as the backdrop. Don’t forget to grab yourself a celebratory beer in town afterward.
Vermont: East Burke Road Route
Liv mountain bike athlete, Riley Miller sets out the perfect route for signature, picturesque views of Vermont: Start at the Village Sport Shop Trailside and travel north on Darling Hill Road. Cross Burke Green Road and turn right on White School Road, which you’ll follow to the end. Turn right on Route 114 and then shortly after, take a left on Pinkham Road. Follow to the end and turn right on Mountain Road. Follow Mountain Road into town, where Miller suggests stopping for ice cream and a river swim. Then, continue on East Darling Hill road out of town, take a left on Darling Hill Road back to the Trailside shop. Finish up with a meal at the Wildflower Inn. Along the way, you’ll spot dairy farms, maple trees, blackberry patches, historical buildings, and views of Burke Mountain—everything you want from a ride in this beautiful state.
Virginia: Virginia Creeper Trail
A beginner-friendly bike route, the Virginia Creeper Trail (another converted rail-trail) in Damascus, offers shuttle services for those looking to ride one way without having to turn back. According to the tourism board, many people take the shuttle to Whitetop Station, so they can bike mostly downhill on their return trip. As for sights as you spin, you’ll see farms, rolling hills, and Whitetop Laurel Creek.
Washington: Olympic Discovery Trail
You get to touch ground in Olympic National Park on this 126-mile trail from Port Townsend to the Pacific Ocean. Most of the trail is paved, but Christina Pivarnik of the Washington Tourism Alliance says parts that aren’t will still be easy to travel on a road bike. You’ll cross through farmlands, lavender fields, and wooded areas, and spy water nearby, too.
West Virginia: Skyline Trail
Located at Snowshoe Mountain’s Bike Park, Skyline Trail is one of 40 downhill trails to choose from at the mountain. This intermediate option, a top recommendation from the West Virginia Tourism Office, features a route that weaves in and out of trees, and a long, fast section that descends right under the chairlift. You’ll also cross a creek and take some quick turns on your way to the bottom.
Wisconsin: Quarry Ridge
Ryan Birkicht, senior communications manager for Mongoose, loves Quarry Ridge so much he rides it two to three times a week. If you’re new to hitting the trails on a two-wheeler, you’ll find the green beginner loop super fun as you pedal over tree roots and rock gardens. If you’ve been riding on dirt for years, you also have options to get more technical and even add jumps to your day.
Wyoming: Johnny Behind the Rocks Trail System
Nearly 50 percent of this state is public land, so cycling options are nearly endless. One spot for beginner and intermediate mountain bikers is the Johnny Behind the Rocks Trail System, featuring 12 miles of trails. The Wyoming tourism board says Johnny Draw to Red Ridge is a stand-out dirt option, covering four miles through pinion pine and juniper trees. Best of all, it offers beautiful views of the Wyoming Rockies.
Originally Published: October 03, 2020
