road cycling trips usa

• Cycling in USA
• Countries and States

Tour Finder

Tour type Road bike (88) Hybrid bike (86) Mountain bike (18) E-bike (80) Tour bike (23) Trip length 1 day (9) 2 - 5 days (16) 6 - 10 days (90) 11 - 15 days (7) 16 - 20 days (7) 20+ days (5) Level Easy (39) Moderate (94) Challenging (50) Support Guided (133) Self guided (9) Lodging N/A (9) Hotels (93) Campings (17) Hotel + camping (22) Cabins (2) Month January (12) February (18) March (26) April (25) May (45) June (61) July (73) August (88) September (78) October (52) November (28) December (19) US States and Other Countries Alaska (5) Arizona (8) California (16) Colorado (10) Florida (2) Georgia (1) Hawaii (2) Idaho (12) Maine (6) Maryland (3) Massachusetts (2) Michigan (1) Mississippi (1) Montana (10) Nevada (4) New Mexico (3) New York (4) North Carolina (1) North Dakota (0) Oregon (9) Pennsylvania (1) South Carolina (1) South Dakota (6) Tennessee (2) Texas (3) Utah (16) Vermont (4) Virginia (0) Washington (10) West Virginia (2) Wyoming (9) -Argentina (4) -Bolivia (3) -Canada (15) -Colombia (3) -Costa Rica (2) -Chile (4) -Ecuador (3) -Guatemala (4) -Mexico (4) -Nicaragua (2) -Panama (2) -Peru (4)

Your cycling holiday or bike tour in America

USA Bike Tours offers over 140 most spectacular cycling tours and cycling holidays in all parts of the United States of America and Canada, the whole year through. Long or short, guided or self-guided, basic or deluxe – you will always find the tour that fits you best! We selected the best and most beautiful tours. To guarantee high quality equipment, most scenic routes, excellent accommodation and dedicated support.

Experience The USA the best way – from the seat of a bicycle

Giftcard Are you looking for an original gift for a bicycle enthusiast? Surprise someone with a ‘USA Bike Tours Gift Certificate’ and let them choose any tour on our website. It is the perfect way to give someone an experience of a lifetime. You can purchase the certificate by sending an e-mail to: function f869654594(el) { var href = el.id; var part = parseInt(href.substr(0, 8)); if(Number.isNaN(part)) return; if(part .

Our Favorites

Stephen B. Mount Rushmore and Badlands Tour “USA Bike Tours provide a highly professional and attentive service. Things don’t always go to plan, but they sure know how to respond when needs arise.”

• General conditions
• Homepage Nederlands
• Homepage Deutsch

Sign up for our Newsletter

• Best Whiskey
• Best Gym Shoes
• Best Pocket Knives
• Best Apple Watch
• Porsche Models

The 25 Best Road Cycling Routes in America

From incredible rambles through the heartland to national park tours, coastal cruises and breathless mountaintop finishes, these are the 25 best routes for road cycling in America.

By Peter Koch

There are 4,092,730 miles of public road in America. It’s the most extensive road network in the world, a great tangled mass of pavement, dirt, gravel and sometimes even cobbles, that fans out from wherever you are and takes you wherever you want to go, be it the next town over, Times Square or a lung-searing climb to the top of a 14,000-foot dead-end mountain road (imagine the pants-shitting descent, though). It’s no wonder we, as a nation, have been waxing poetic about the romance of the road for so long. Adventure lies around every bend, and endless possibility starts at the end of your driveway or in front of your stoop. The best way to experience those roads is, of course, on a bicycle , with the wind in your hair and just enough burn in your legs to remind you that you’re alive.

With such a wealth, it was almost impossible to pick just 25 rides. Those we’ve selected run the gamut: incredible rambles through the heartland, national park tours, coastal cruises and breathless mountaintop finishes; there’s elevation for the climbers, distance for the endurance freaks and a few easier routes for laid-back riders to find their legs on. It’s a big, beautiful country. Get on your bike and discover it.

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d21153.486556014588!2d-113.9730481228951!3d48.49132869931176!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990728774&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The climb to the 6,648-foot Logan Pass would be brutal, were it not for the Sound of Music views — toothy peaks, wildflower meadows, glacial lakes and rivers and often wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep — around every bend. Road Notes: From the west entrance of the park, it’s 21 miles of easy, scenic spinning past Lake McDonald before things get lively. The next 11 miles feature 3,000+ feet of climbing as you make your way to the spine of the continent. Arrange for a shuttle to pick you up at the east entrance in St. Mary, or go for broke on the century ride of a lifetime.

Distance: 50 miles Elevation Gain: 4,290 feet Starts From: West Glacier, MT

Dirty Kanza Half-Pint, Kansas

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d25010.6709447465!2d-96.1912929!3d38.41064855!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990765815&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Whether you call it gravel-grinding, all-terrain riding or, our preference, adventure by bike, rattling over the rolling dirt roads of Kansas’ Flint Hills is no picnic. It is gorgeous, though, with sweeping views over the iconic grassy farmlands of our nation’s heartland. This is America. Road Notes: This is Dirty Kanza territory, and in fact, this route is the “half-pint” version of the 2014 edition. If you insist on the whole 200-mile route (it’s available here), you won’t have time to enjoy it. It’s up and down, and with 60 miles of dirt before the first town, you have to be self-reliant. God help you if it rains.

Distance: 111 miles Elevation Gain: 5,298 feet Starts From: Emporia, KS

Mt. Evans Climb, Colorado

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d12270.957913622171!2d-105.495921!3d39.74550255!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990803559&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The highest paved road in the US runs out on top of 14,271-foot Mt. Evans, where it overlooks wave after wave of Rockies in one direction and the seemingly endless Eastern Plains in the other. It’s a rare chance to climb for three straight hours, and what’s not to love about that? Road Notes: From Idaho Springs, ride through aspen- and evergreen-lined Chicago Creek Canyon. Past Echo Lake, you’ll emerge from the tree line and be rewarded with those famous views. At the summit, check your brakes, don a jacket (trust us) and point your handlebars down for a hard-earned, feel-like-a-kid-again 28-mile coaster back to town.

Distance: 27.6 miles Elevation Gain: 6,789 feet Starts From: Idaho Springs, CO

Tour of the Battenkill, New York

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d46575.70393894886!2d-73.48772835!3d43.14691785!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990846614&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: This ride through rural Washington County follows the route of the Tour of the Battenkill, America’s largest one-day pro/am cycling race, and its own shorter, hillier version of Paris-Roubaix. It rumbles through upstate dairy farm country and over covered bridges, railroad crossings and no fewer than eight stretches of rugged dirt road totaling 15 of the ride’s 68 miles. Road Notes: It’s a bit gnarly out there, so if you don’t have a cross or gravel rig, consider wider tires (28s or bigger, if your rims can handle them). The climbs are short but punchy — 17 percent is the max grade — so be ready to break in your quads if you ride it during Classics season. As for us, we prefer it in October, with a side of fall foliage.

Distance: 68.1 miles Elevation Gain: 4,423 feet Starts From: Greenwich, NY

Oregon Coast

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d11193.359848143773!2d-123.82883726642044!3d45.46295521108616!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990882884&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The Oregon Coast is one of the most democratic (not to mention gorgeous) shorelines in America. Its tide pools, old-growth forests, waterfalls, cliffside trails and sandy beaches are free and open for the public to explore. But the best of these can only be discovered at a slow, steady cycling pace. Plan on good coffee and clam chowder lunches in between long, dramatic views to lighthouses and wave-crashed sea stacks. Road Notes: Rather than send you entirely down Highway 101 (the famed “Oregon Coast Bike Route”), we’ve taken the liberty of routing you on quieter, more beautiful roads where possible. You’re welcome. There are hills, yes, but likely a tailwind, too, if you’re riding between July and September, our favorite time.

Distance: 86.2 miles Elevation Gain: 5,291 feet Starts From: Tillamook, OR

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d51919.0824488769!2d-82.55367349204212!3d35.57980724131461!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990922115&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The parkway winds along the airy peaks of the Blue Ridge from from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering riders 469 miles of nearly uninterrupted scenic two-lane road through God’s country. Wildlife, waterfalls and panoramic vistas of rolling mountains are de rigueur. Road Notes: The BRP has very few services located along its winding route, so we’ve routed you over 25 scenic miles between two of our favorite towns in western North Carolina, Asheville (great breweries) and Brevard (epic mountain biking).

Distance: 47.6 miles Elevation Gain: 5,002 feet Starts From: Asheville, NC

San Juan Islands, Washington

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d10567.82032438643!2d-123.01862709999999!3d48.534092550000004!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431990950745&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The San Juans, with their quiet two-lane roads, artsy culture and incredible scenery, have long been considered a cycling paradise. Of the three largest islands, San Juan is the most populated (with fewer than 8,000 residents) and features a good mix of roller coaster hills and open country. Lopez is flatter and more relaxed, and Orcas offers challenges on Mt. Constitution and Turtleback Mountain. Road Notes: From Friday Harbor’s Norman Rockwell-worthy downtown, pedal north through forests, farmland and vineyards on your way to Roche Harbor’s seafood joints and 19-acre public sculpture park. At Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, keep your eyes peeled for killer whales as you look across Haro Strait to Canada.

Distance: 50.4 miles Elevation Gain: 3,445 feet Starts From: Friday Harbor, WA

Crater Lake Loop, Oregon

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d23375.539151950783!2d-122.14645498919845!3d42.91625588118169!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991101938&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: According to the local Klamath tribe, Crater Lake was formed when a battle between the sky god and the god of the underworld destroyed volcanic Mt. Mazama some 7,700 years ago. Today, it’s sacred to them and all Americans, one of the world’s deepest, purest and most picturesque lakes. And it happens that a 32-mile strip of near-perfect pavement circles the ancient caldera. Road Notes: The only water available on this challenging route is at Rim Village (mile 0) and Park Headquarters (mile 29), so plan on bringing at least two bottles, especially since you’ll dehydrate more quickly at this high elevation (6,400 to 7,700 feet).

Distance: 32 miles Elevation Gain: 3,892 feet Starts From: Rim Village, Crater Lake National Park

Gran Fondo New York

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d48359.55318785867!2d-73.98071096264543!3d40.75164069274423!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991143698&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: You probably wouldn’t believe us if we told you that there’s fantastic cycling to be had — quiet, leafy two-lane roads that hug the Hudson River — a 10-minute ride from the frenetic streets of Manhattan. But it’s true, and it’s the reason Gran Fondo New York (whose route we’ve followed) has become one of the nation’s premier cycling events. Road Notes: Carbo-load at Mike’s Bagels in Washington Heights before crossing the George Washington Bridge to New Jersey’s Palisades. From there, it’s a mostly uneventful spin north along the Hudson through little river towns until the 1,200 foot climb up Bear Mountain, where you can look south and see the glimmering towers back where you started. If your legs are cooked, cross over the river to Peekskill Brewery , where you can recover while you wait on the next New York-bound train.

Distance: 100.8 miles Elevation Gain: 8,645 feet Starts From: New York City

A Ride Through Time, Utah

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d6315.835017105817!2d-112.15890844066782!3d37.67464608558654!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991191399&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Utah’s State Route 12 traverses 122 miles of otherworldly landscape — chockablock with slickrock canyons, cosmic pinnacles and monolithic buttes — between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. We’ve carved out a more manageable (relatively, mind you) chunk between Bryce and Boulder that winds past petrified forests, stratified cliffs and ancient Puebloan granaries where you can peer into history. Road Notes: From lofty Bryce (7,500 feet), the road drops down into the tiny farming towns of Tropic, Cannonville and Henrieville before climbing through Dixie National Forest and passing the granaries. After Escalante, the road is in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to Boulder. Stop to explore slot canyons, scope out the Escalante River or photograph the world-famous Hogback formation.

Distance: 74.2 miles Elevation Gain: 5,096 feet Starts From: Bryce, UT

Sea to Summit, California

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d101051.8573415854!2d-122.32533346498779!3d37.675749621775445!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991222708&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: This feature-packed ride, which starts and ends downtown, highlights the sheer geographical diversity and scenic beauty that makes NorCal so special. From San Francisco’s touristy waterfront, it crosses the Golden Gate Bridge, heads over the rugged Marin Headlands, hugs the Pacific shoreline through Muir and Stinson Beaches and climbs past redwood forests and flowering manzanitas to 2,574-foot Mt. Tamalpais. Road Notes: The Headlands will present some challenges, but they’re nothing in comparison to Mt. Tam. It’s a stiff 9-mile, 2,500-foot climb from Bolinas Lagoon to the summit, but the wide-open vistas from Bolinas Ridge are worth it. You’ll want a rugged bike for this one, since we’ve routed you down a dirt-and-crushed-stone railroad grade to Mill Valley. From there, it’s on to Tiburon to catch a ferry back to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Distance: 60.5 miles Elevation Gain: 6,272 feet Starts From: San Francisco, CA

Champlain Islands, Vermont

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d45537.621344807674!2d-73.22664839999999!3d44.492590400000005!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991259350&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Just north of the crunchy northern Vermont mecca of Burlington, the bucolic Champlain Islands bob in the center of Lake Champlain, where they’re shielded by the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east. Farm stands and creemee (that’s Vermont for “soft-serve”) shacks sprout along quiet, pancake-flat roads here, and dramatic views of mountains tumbling down to the lakeshore are almost nonstop. Road Notes: From downtown Burlington, it’s an easy ride north along 10 miles of the Island Line Trail — including three incredible miles on the narrow Colchester Causeway — before you reach “The Cut.” A dedicated bike ferry will deliver you across the 200-foot-wide break in the causeway, delivering you to the southern end of the islands.

Distance: 82.6 miles Elevation Gain: 2,503 feet Starts From: Burlington, VT

Around Acadia, Maine

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d11405.64520269777!2d-68.20956476372348!3d44.38367801321047!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991301662&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Because it’s home to Acadia National Park, Mt. Desert Island is the best place to explore Maine’s ruggedly beautiful granite coast. Between the miles of traffic-free carriage roads, well marked trails down to seaside tide pools and the panoramic view atop Cadillac Mountain (the highest point on the Atlantic Coast), this is a cyclist’s coastal dream trip. Of course, the profusion of postcard-perfect fishing villages with fresh-catch lobster pounds make it worthwhile off the bike. Road Notes: We put Cadillac Mountain’s summit just six miles into the route, so early birds can catch the sunrise up top. But also so you can bail on it, shaving eight miles and 1,100 feet of climbing from the ride, if you’re not feeling it. We’ve also included 14 miles of crushed stone carriage roads. Bypassing them in favor of Rte. 3 would be a shame, but it spares your legs eight miles and 250 feet of hills.

Distance: 80.5 miles Elevation Gain: 6,245 feet Starts From: Bar Harbor, ME

The Katy Trail, Missouri

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d12406.907532907937!2d-92.56185054468354!3d38.97590392246518!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991355730&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The Katy Trail runs 237 miles across the Missouri countryside along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad right-of-way, making it the nation’s longest Rails-to-Trails project. More than two-thirds of it hugs the banks of the muddy Missouri River, cruising on flat terrain beneath towering river bluffs and past farmland and vineyards. And despite its intrepid, middle-of-nowhere feel, dozens of would-be Mayberrys dot its length every few miles, offering rest and refuel options. Road Notes: The smooth crushed-limestone trail passes through no fewer than 15 towns between Rocheport and McKittrick, so finding lunch and refilling water bottles shouldn’t be a problem.

Distance: 77.6 miles Elevation Gain: 677 feet Starts From: Rocheport, MO

Road to Hana, Hawaii

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d14908.523998577883!2d-156.36877959616467!3d20.90704860493499!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991407897&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: In less than 50 miles, the Hana Highway wiggles its way around 600 hairpin turns and over 50 bridges as it traces Maui’s wild northern coast from the hub of Kahului to the little seaside village of Hana. Passing through lush tropical rainforest and studded with waterfalls and spectacular seascapes, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime ride. Road Notes: This is Hawaii ’s most famous stretch of road, and sometimes attracts the bumper-to-bumper traffic you’d expect. As you’ll be navigating hundreds of sharp turns and nearly 50 one-lane bridges with all of those cars, it’s critical that you’re very comfortable riding with traffic. Also, factor in much more time than you think you need for food stops (Halfway to Hana and Braddah Hutts BBQ are favorites), refreshing waterfall dips and the wildly undulating topography.

Distance: 44.5 miles Elevation Gain: 4,654 feet Starts From: Paia, HI

The Pinky Traverse, Michigan

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d22663.201932526907!2d-85.59445032531741!3d44.762449191319476!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991446294&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: With its rolling vineyards and cherry orchards, historic lighthouses, sandy beaches and charming ports, Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula comprises one of the most scenic stretches of the Great Lakes’ so-called “Third Coast”. Take in Lake Michigan’s pristine shoreline on a flat pedal from the vacationland of Traverse City to the oversized sandbox of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore. Road Notes: This relatively flat route traces the “pinky” of the Lower Peninsula’s “mitten”, following 26 miles of dedicated bike trail and quiet byways with sweeping shoreline views. Time it right and you can watch sunset over Lake Michigan from Sleeping Bear’s 450-foot-high Lake Michigan Overlook. From there, it’s an easy pedal into Empire.

Distance: 70.8 miles Elevation Gain: 1,968 feet Starts From: Traverse City, MI

Delmarva Dawdle, Maryland

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d24883.820886663114!2d-76.07212750000001!3d38.775684!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991488448&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The Delmarva Peninsula (Delaware-Maryland-Virginia) is a bucolic, 170-mile-long peninsula that separates Chesapeake Bay from the Atlantic. A crazy quilt of fields, small towns, coves and sinuous tributary rivers, it’s the perfect place for a laid-back, low-speed ramble along the Eastern Shore’s low-country back roads. Road Notes: If you start from historic 17th-century Easton, you can be in St. Michaels, seated on the waterfront patio at The Crab Claw in time for lunch — steamed blue crabs with Old Bay and a side of pickles and cheese — with a view. Then it’s on to Bellevue, where a ferry ride delivers you across the Tred Avon River to Oxford. From there, it’s am easy 13-mile pedal to Easton past cornfields and horse farms.

Distance: 31.9 miles Elevation Gain: 639 feet Starts From: Easton, MD

Covered Bridge Metric Century, Pennsylvania

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d24436.704606988962!2d-76.30034895!3d40.03997544999999!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991524415&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Covered bridges and horse-drawn buggies are the hallmarks of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country surrounding Lancaster, where the Amish and Mennonites have been farming the rolling countryside for centuries. These are the same low-traffic rural roads where a young Floyd Landis — himself raised Mennonite — cut his teeth before becoming internationally infamous. Road Notes: This ride, which traverses six covered bridges and countless rollers, isn’t technically challenging, but it will wear you down. Luckily, there are plenty of local shops — our favorite is Udder Choice in Ephrata — selling rich, creamery-fresh ice cream to power you along the way. This ride closely follows the route of the Lancaster Bike Club’s popular annual Covered Bridge Metric Century.

Distance: 64 miles Elevation Gain: 3,455 feet Starts From: Lancaster, PA

A Good Ride Near the Badlands, South Dakota

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d11525.032582691994!2d-103.5923035!3d43.76749995!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991555353&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: The ruggedly beautiful topography of South Dakota’s Black Hills presented highway engineers with some unique challenges. They responded by constructing two “impossible” roads — the Needles Highway (Rte. 87) and Iron Mountain Road (Rte. 16A) — that thread their way through the mountains using steep grades, one-lane rock-walled tunnels, hairpin curves and photogenic spiral “pigtail” bridges. This ride, which traverses both (and swings by Mount Rushmore), is as beautiful as it is challenging, crossing wide-open meadows and deep canyons that are home to abundant wildlife including elk, bison, antelope, coyotes, mountain lions and bighorns. Road Notes: Beyond the aggressive topography, all of those switchbacks and one-lane tunnels do present risks for cyclists. Dress brightly and beware blind curves. Plus, there are so many scenic overlooks that it’s hard to get into a rhythm.

Distance: 68.4 miles Elevation Gain: 7,329 feet Starts From: Custer, SD

Little Switzerland, Texas

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d27567.360289387027!2d-98.87806004999999!3d30.267859499999997!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991585380&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: With its rolling karst topography, award-winning vineyards and dazzling springtime wildflower blooms, Texas Hill Country features some of the state’s best rural cycling. These hills, while not Swiss Alps caliber, were one of Lance Armstrong’s primary training grounds. Road Notes: This ride is a Hill Country classic that leaves from the cycling capital of Fredericksburg, a quaint village founded in the 1840s by German immigrants. It’s likely a combination of that continental heritage and a Texas-sized imagination that led to locals naming this route “Little Switzerland” — there are hills with names like Mt. Crabapple, Swiss Miss and Grinder, but none are taller than 300 feet.

Distance: 41 miles Elevation Gain: 2,233 feet Starts From: Fredericksburg, TX

Grand Rounds Loop, Minnesota

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d45162.721475538565!2d-93.2614785!3d44.970696999999994!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991613967&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Though it’s only recently become recognized as a cycling paradise, Minneapolis’ best bike route — the over-50-mile Grand Rounds Loop, which traces natural features including lakes, creeks, riverbanks and wetlands in a massive circle around downtown — has been around since the 1930s. Road Notes: While the full trip includes complete laps around each and every lake, this ride comprises a practical, 31-mile route around the Grand Rounds from the University of Minnesota campus and knocks most of the climbing out of the way in the first dozen miles.

Distance: 30.8 miles Elevation Gain: 1,191 feet Starts From: Minneapolis, MN

Jackson Hole Circuit, Wyoming

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d11580.931578246089!2d-110.77810002291696!3d43.47660984455034!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991658305&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: With its profusion of singletrack radiating from town into the Gros Ventre Range, Jackson is better known for its mountain biking than its roadie culture. But the 48-mile-long valley of Jackson Hole, framed as it is by the saw-toothed Teton Range and the Gros Ventres, is a wonderfully dramatic setting for a road tour. Road Notes: This circuit climbs steadily into Grand Teton National Park at the base of the Tetons, where it traces the shores of Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake. At Moran, it turns south and follows the Snake River back downhill toward Jackson through beautifully stark, wide-open terrain.

Distance: 75.2 miles Elevation Gain: 2,262 feet Starts From: Jackson, WY

The Fruit & Wine Byway, Colorado

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d12384.091790580884!2d-108.35814578603863!3d39.10594771092941!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991692032&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Not every ride in the Centennial State features lung-searing alpine climbs. On the Rockies’ Western Slope, where the Colorado River emerges from the Book Cliffs near Grand Junction, the little farming town of Palisade is a relative flatland of peach orchards, lavender gardens and, recently, an up-and-coming wine industry. Road Notes: This laid-back route, which traces rural farm roads along the Colorado River, encourages our favorite kind of agritourism: wine tasting, as it passes more than half a dozen vineyards, and at least as many farm-fresh fruit stands. It’s no Napa, but with its lack of pretension and the dramatic backdrop of 11,000-foot Grand Mesa, it might just be better.

Distance: 24.4 miles Elevation Gain: 884 feet Starts From: Palisade, CO

Down Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d26087.848808640087!2d-111.63366138965388!3d35.18202358214011!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991742320&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Perched on the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, just beneath the San Francisco Peaks at 6,910 feet, Flagstaff is a mild-weathered, Ponderosa pine-studded outdoor wonderland. Immediately south of the city, though, you can roll down the Mogollon Rim — a 2,500-foot escarpment marking the edge of the plateau — via Oak Creek Canyon to Sedona’s otherworldly red rock desertscapes. Road Notes: State Route 89 descends rather sharply into Oak Creek Canyon via a series of hairpin turns between miles 14 and 16. From there, the descent mellows, meandering through the narrow canyon alongside Oak Creek. This fast, mostly downhill ride leaves plenty of time to enjoy the canyon’s natural beauty on your way to Sedona. Cool off in a natural waterslide at Slide Rock State Park, or explore one of more than a dozen hikes.

Distance: 29.2 miles Elevation Gain: 884 feet Starts From: Flagstaff, AZ

Down the Delaware Coast, Delaware

[iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m12!1m3!1d12452.172310716163!2d-75.08156851460447!3d38.716819955355476!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1431991866511&w=650;h=500″][/iframe] Why Go: Diminutive Delaware may not have the kind of dramatic topography that characterizes most great cycling regions, but it does occupy some of the nation’s best oceanfront real estate. This ride takes in 38 beginner-friendly miles along its most famous Atlantic strands, from Rehoboth Beach (not coincidentally, home to Dogfish Head Brewery) down to Fenwick Island and back. Road Notes: This route is dead-simple to follow: take Bicycle Route 1 south (ocean on your left) past white-sand beaches, boardwalks and dunes until you reach downtown Fenwick Island, then head back (with the ocean on your right). Bring a lock, and spend some time exploring the various beaches — in order, Rehoboth, Dewey, Delaware Seashore State Park, Bethany, Fenwick Island State Park and Fenwick Island — each of which has its own special character.

Distance: 38.2 miles Elevation Gain: 381 feet Starts From: Rehoboth Beach, DE

Related Topics

Bicycle Tours & Trips in USA

• Choose from 33 USA tours
• 9 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Bicycle USA tour packages

Compiled by

Nadine USA travel expert at TourRadar

Arizona Sonora Bike Tour

Joshua tree & anza borrego bike tour, cycling maine's coast & national park, alaska hike, bike & kayak, usa road trip — highway 1, yosemite & utah, willamette valley: a promised land bike tour, santa fe-taos bike tour, the cascade loop: north cascades to leavenworth, arches & canyonlands multisport, san juan islands 6 day bike tour.

• Explore Kartchner Caverns underground
• Ride up the scenic Mt. Lemmon
• Discover vineyards in Sonoita and Elgin

• Explore Salvation Mountain's folk art
• Cycle past the vast Salton Sea
• Hike through colorful Anza Borrego

• Road Cycling
• Ferry to the scenic Schoodic Peninsula
• Ride to Marshall Point lighthouse
• Explore Rockland's lobster scene

• Hiking & Trekking
• Walk on Matanuska Glacier with a guide
• Explore Denali's wilderness on a hike
• Hike to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords

“I got to experience what I came for - an exciting adventure road trip that was challenging and picture-worthy.” Jennifer Gawor, traveled in September 2023

• Stargaze in Bryce Canyon National Park
• Surf the waves at Venice Beach
• Walk the iconic Santa Monica Pier

• Toast at a winery by the Willamette River
• Cycle through Oregon's first Rails-to-Trails
• Explore the botanical beauty of Oregon Garden

• Cycle the scenic High Road to Taos
• Explore art galleries along Canyon Road
• Raft through Rio Grande Canyon rapids

• Taste wines at a Lake Chelan vineyard
• Discover Leavenworth's Bavarian charm
• Mountain bike and hike in North Cascades

• Hike to Corona and Bowtie Arches
• Bike or shuttle to Dead Horse Point
• Explore Arches National Park's famous arches

• Cycle around Lopez Island's scenic vistas
• Explore San Juan Island by bicycle
• Kayak around Puget Sound and Salish Sea

More about USA

Discover TourRadar

United States Bike Tours

Pacific northwest islands, rainforests, mountains and coastlines. southwest deserts and oases. tropical jungles and volcanoes. rocky mountain peaks and glaciers. mid-west badlands and “wild west” history. the manhattan skyline, and more.

We offer adventure tours that explore a wide range of uniquely beautiful destinations in the United States. Get reacquainted with your sense of adventure. Grab your helmet and let’s ride!

United States Tours

South Dakota, USA

Mt. rushmore & badlands bike tour, $3,940/ 4,140, intermediate.

Mickelson Trail Bike Tour

$2,999 / 3,198.

Oregon, Washington, USA

Columbia gorge bike tour.

Arizona, USA

Arizona sonora bike tour, $3,400 / 3,600.

Montana, USA

Montana’s bitterroot bike tour.

Northwest, Oregon, USA

Willamette valley: a promised land bike tour.

Wyoming, USA

Wyoming epic bike tour.

Arches & Canyonlands Multisport Tour

$3,398/ 3,598.

Bryce & Zion National Parks Bike Tour

$3,455/ 3,660.

Washington, USA

San juan islands bike tour.

Zion Multisport 4-Day Tour

Idaho, Northwest, Washington, USA

Trail of the coeur d’alenes bike tour.

Oregon, USA

Oregon crater lake bike tour.

California, Nevada, USA

Valley of fire & death valley bike tour, $3,617 / 3,816.

Idaho, British Columbia, Washington

International selkirk loop bike tour.

Idaho, Northwest, Oregon, USA

Bend to boise epic bike tour.

Hells Canyon & Wallowas Bike Tour

California, USA

Joshua tree & anza borrego bike tour.

Canada, Alberta, Montana, USA, International

Glacier-banff-jasper bike tour.

New Mexico, USA

Santa fe-taos bike tour, $3,811 / 4,010.

Big Sur Coast Bike Tour

Oregon Coast to Crater Lake Bike Tour

Olympic National Park & Discovery Trail

Mt. Rainier to Mt. Hood Bike Tour

$3,878/ 4,078.

Idaho, Montana, Washington, USA

Empire builder epic bike tour.

North Cascades to Leavenworth Bike Tour

$3,327/ 3,528.

Methow Valley Cross-Country Ski Tour

ADVENTURE TAKEOVER

• Route Finder
• Route Planner
• Travel Guide
• Places to visit
• Eat & drink
• Accommodation
• Ski resorts
• Current Conditions
• Avalanche Report
• Collections
• Travel Stories
• Publications

Road cycling routes in the United States of America

• Show images Hide images

The 10 most beautiful road cycling routes in the United States of America

• Everything in Cycling
• Bike Riding
• Mountain Biking
• Road Cycling
• Bicycle Touring
• Gravel Bike

Forecast for United States of America

Welcome to the land of endless road cycling possibilities - the United States of America! Whether you are a seasoned cyclist looking for a new challenge or a beginner eager to explore stunning landscapes on two wheels, this diverse country has it all. With its vast expanse and varied terrain, the USA offers an array of road cycling routes that cater to riders of all levels.

Where in United States of America to Go Road Cycling?

The United States boasts numerous regions that are perfect for road cycling adventures. From coast to coast, you can find breathtaking routes that showcase the natural beauty and cultural diversity of this vast country. Some popular destinations include:

Nice Road-Cycling-Routes in United States of America

If you're looking for nice road-cycling-routes in the USA, you won't be disappointed. Here are some top picks:

• Pacific Coast Highway: This iconic route along California's coastline offers stunning ocean views and challenging climbs.

Find road cycling routes in neighboring regions

Nature regions.

• Road cycling routes in the Appalachia

Discover other road cycling routes within United States of America

Similar activities in the united states of america.

Adventures for Every Rider

Carolina Tailwinds’ Rental Bike Fleet

Fully supported inn-to-inn bicycle tours, best usa cycling vacation tour company — carolina tailwinds bike tours.

We provide carefully planned multi-day bicycle tour packages that include fine dining, memorable lodging, beautiful cycling routes and full support, all in a small group environment.  We offer 16 destinations in 10 states throughout the Eastern U.S.  Come ride with Carolina Tailwinds!

The Carolina Tailwinds Experience

Sign up for Tour Announcements & Deals

Start Your Bike Tour

See how Carolina Tailwinds gives you an amazing trip.

News from the Road

Three-peat #1 cycling tour again in 2024.

Thank you once again loyal friends and patrons who vote us Number 1 US Bike Tour Company in the 2024 USA Today 10Best Readers Choice Award!  We appreciate your votes and your faith in Carolina Tailwinds.

Carolina Tailwinds Voted #1 Bike Tour...Again!

For the second year in a row, Carolina Tailwinds has placed 1st in the USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice competition.  Thank you to all of you who voted for us.  All of us at CT are again humbled, and we will do all in our power to live up to this ranking!

Carolina Tailwinds Voted #1 Cycling Tour

Carolina Tailwinds is proud to announce that we were voted #1 Cycling Tour  in USA TODAY's 10BEST 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards .

This come on the heels of top 4 finishes each of the previous 2 years.  As before, Carolina Tailwinds was one of twenty companies nominated across the country, chosen by the panel of experts.  The top 10 bicycle tour companies were then chosen by popular vote and awarded the 10Best Readers Choice Award.

Popular Searches

• Family Trips
• River Cruises
• Women's Adventures

Bike Tours & Guided Cycling Trips

Since 1979, bike tours have been the core of who we are, and we’ve only gotten better with time. Learn more about what you can expect when you join us on a biking adventure and check out our fleet of custom-built titanium bikes . 

Destinations

More Filters

E-bike Availability

Collections

Accommodations

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambiance and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

Activity Levels

Couples, Friends & Solos

Normandy to Loire Valley Bike Tour

Premiere Hotels

From $6,599 /person

Croatia Bike Tour

Casual Hotels

From $5,199 /person

Portugal's Algarve & Alentejo Bike Tour

From $5,499 /person

Madrid to the Douro River & Porto Bike Tour

From $4,449 /person

Netherlands & Belgium Bike Tour

From $5,049 /person

Sweden to Denmark Bike Tour

Premiere & Deluxe Hotels

From $6,199 /person

Tuscany by the Sea Bike Tour

From $6,099 /person

Bordeaux & Dordogne Bike Tour

From $5,699 /person

A Taste of Camino de Santiago Bike Tour

From $4,799 /person

Norway & Sweden Bike Tour

Deluxe & Premiere Hotels

From $4,699 /person

Spain's Mallorca & Menorca Bike Tour

From $5,299 /person

Dolomites Bike Tour

From $5,599 /person

Puglia's Salento to Matera Bike Tour

From $5,399 /person

Croatia & Slovenia's Alps Bike Tour

Premiere & Casual Hotels

Santa Barbara to Ojai Bike Tour

From $4,599 /person

Sicily Bike Tour

Champagne & Alsace Bike Tour

From $6,499 /person

Brittany & Normandy Bike Tour

Spain's Mallorca Bike Tour

From $5,899 /person

Sonoma Wine Country Bike Tour - Weekend Getaway

From $2,899 /person

Provence Luberon to Lavender Country Bike Tour

Brittany & Normandy Bike Tour 

Casual Hotels*

From $3,999 /person

Banff to Jasper National Park Bike Tour

Burgundy Bike Tour

From $5,799 /person

From the Rocky Mountains to the Tuscan countryside to Vietnam's Mekong River , our expert Trip Leaders guide you on the most scenic biking routes—far from the crowds and immersed in the region you’ve come to discover. 

Discover Your Next Adventure

By sharing your email address, you agree to the practices described in our  Privacy Policy .

Cycling USA

• Boulder, Colorado
• San Francisco
• Santa Barbara County
• Santa Monica Mountains National Park

America has 4.12 million miles of public roads. That’s more than any other country in the world. Unsurprisingly, it also has a big road cycling scene and depth and strength at the world pro level too. In such a huge country, where do you start? Our answer –

Southern California is famous for its warm, relaxed, beach and surf lifestyle. Yet it is also blessed with rugged natural beauty, deserted canyon roads, sweeping vistas and high mountain ridges. It’s perfect for road biking and our guides to road cycling in the Santa Monica Mountains  and  Santa Barbara region may just get you reaching to book your plane tickets.

Alternatively, there’s the stunning riding around San Francisco – or of course Boulder in Colorado , which is a massive cycling mecca

And finally, you could consider riding all the way across America . Or even the truly epic Race Across America !

Please support Epic Road Rides

A huge amount of time and effort goes into the article you’ve just read, all with the aim of helping you!

If you found what you’ve read useful, I’d really appreciate it if you dropped something in the tip jar  here .

It’s a way you can say thank you and help us carry on creating top quality content with no annoying ads and no pay wall.

Leave us a tip here!

Looking for an organised cycling trip?

If you want someone to help you plan and book your cycling holiday, fill out this form. We aren’t a tour operator/agent but we work with lots of people who are and will do our best to put you in touch with someone that can help (within 24 hours wherever possible)!

We will use this info to send the enquiry to the author and/or their team. Our privacy policy explains more and here’s a reminder of our disclosure policy and terms and conditions.

The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here .

Inn-to-Inn Active Bicycling Vacations

We offer more inn-to-inn USA bike tour destinations than any other company.

Our bicycle tours visit over 30 destinations , 24 states and 24 National Parks , with more than 200 departures every year. A fully supported, inn-to-inn bike vacation is the perfect way to have an adventure without straying far from home.

Connect with places, people and culture in unexpected and delightful ways on your bicycle. Wilderness Voyageurs bike tours give you the opportunity to explore from mountains to bay, to taste local delicacies and to create an unforgettable way of traveling that might just become a habit.   Wilderness Voyageurs bike tours are fully supported with professional guides, a support vehicle, beautiful cycling routes and excellent food and accommodations.

Explore our tours on this interactive map!

Interactive map key.

Gravel Bike Tour

Rail-Trail Bike Tour

Road Bike Tour

Get a taste of your next adventure!

Road Bike Tours

Our road bike tours visit 16 states and Cuba. With varied daily riding, terrific inns, National Geographic award-winning Civil War tours, you’re sure to find the right tour for your next (or maybe first!) bicycle touring vacation!

Rails to Trails Tours

Wilderness Voyageurs is the leading bike tour provider of Rail -Trail bicycle tours. We operate fully-supported Inn-to-Inn tours on 10 of the top Rail-Trails in the US, including Hall of Fame Trails.

Mountain Bike Tours

Ohiopyle day trips or inn-to-inn singletrack tours in Colorado. Our Ohiopyle location offers instruction, tours, and rentals for Ohiopyle State Park and other regional trails of the Laurel Highlands.

Gravel Bike Tours

Gravel riding is an adventurous type of cycling! Combining a bit of road riding and a bit of mountain biking, a gravel route is mostly on unpaved roads, trails, paths and everything in between.

“This was my 3rd cycling trip with Wilderness-Voyageurs and they've all been great. I'm already thinking about riding with the company again in the future.”

Arthur Stern - Indianapolis, IN

“The guides were so efficient & able to handle any situation that came up. They were still smiling at the end of the day!”

Barb Galles - Le Mars, IA

“This was more than just a bike trip – we truly experienced the Georgia coast (starting with a tour of Savannah) along with history and lots of opportunities for wildlife viewing”

Susan Felter - West Chester, OH

“Our bike tour guides turned the page, transferring our dream adventure into a memorable reality!”

Jim & Lois Rawers - Corvallis, OR

“Everything about the trip exceeded my already high expectations. This was not the first Wilderness Voyageurs trip for everyone, and I can certainly understand why. I know I want to come back!”

John H - Howell, NJ

“Great biking tour on the Chesapeake Eastern Shore. Excellent guides that were knowledgeable about biking, the area, wildlife and very accommodating. Looking forward to going with Wilderness Voyageurs again.”

George W. - Austin, TX

Featured Tours

Pittsburgh to DC: GAP and C&O Bike Tour

Easy Rider GAP Bike Tour

Great Allegheny Passage Bike Tour

Katy Trail: Rail-Trail Ride Across Missouri

Cycle Colorful Colorado Bike Tour

Shenandoah & Skyline Drive Bike Tour

Sign up now to request itineraries for any Wilderness Voyageurs Bike Tour or our Full Bike Tour Catalog and we’ll get them to you right away so that you can get to planning your dream Bike Tour Vacation!

Online Catalog

Skip the wait - You can view a downloadable version of our 2024 Bike Tour Catalog right now!

Bike Tour Dates

Check out bike tour dates and descriptions for our 2024 line up!

The Best U.S. Cycling Tours to Add to Your Bucket List

Plan your next vacation around one of these epic destination tours in cities, parks, and countrysides across America.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a recreational rider, the best way to experience a new place is on a bike. That’s because pedaling is much more immersive than driving—you see, hear, and even smell things that you may miss otherwise.

Plus, the fact that you’re on two wheels allows you to cover more ground than walking. Another benefit: You get to work up a sweat while exploring the magic of a new-to-you location. Pretty sweet, right?

In the spirit of biking meets vacation, companies across the U.S. offer guided destination cycling tours of varying length, locations, price points, and difficulty. From afternoon-long urban tours to overnight trips to National Parks , wine country, and idyllic farmlands, the following cycling tours—all hosted by highly-reviewed and reputable companies—can help fulfill your two-wheeled wanderlust.

The only question: Which one are you going to book first?

New Mexico Bike Tour

Hosted by: trek travel.

For a slice of Southwestern culture and an immersion into the natural beauty of New Mexico, consider this guided group tour out of art hub Santa Fe. You’ll cycle under wide-open skies past sweeping mountain vistas and learn about local history en route: Day two includes a stop at Santuario de Chimayó, a designated National Historic Landmark, and day three entails a visit to Galisteo, an abode village occupied since prehistoric times and the current residence of many local artists.

Designed for advanced riders who are comfortable pedaling three to four hours at a time at a solid pace, this high-altitude trip encompasses 189 miles of biking with more than 14,000 feet of elevation gain. For those craving a break from all that saddle time, non-riding activities include spa treatments, a hot air balloon ride, a visit to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, and more.

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico Duration: 4 days/3 nights Cost: from $3,399

Boothbay to Bar Harbor Bike Tour

Hosted by: summer feet cycling.

This week-long, small group tour (max size: 12 riders) offers cyclists a breathtaking tour of Maine’s diverse coastline with cozy stays at local inns along the way.

The journey ranges in distance between about 300 to more than 400 miles (they offer multiple distances most days), beginning at coastal village Boothbay Harbor and then traveling north along the shores of Penobscot Bay, a popular cruising bay, and Blue Hill Bay, before finishing with two full days of riding in Acadia National Park.

Along the way, you’ll hit top tourist spots, like Camden, a quintessential New England town dubbed “the Jewel of the Maine Coast,” while also touring several not-as-famous, equally beautiful seafront towns, like Port Clyde and Castine, says Norman Patry, owner of Summer Feet Cycling.

You’ll fuel your rides with a variety of Maine delicacies, including lobster, smoked salmon, fresh blueberries , and the local favorite whoopie pies.

Location: Portland to Acadia National Park, Maine Duration: 7 days/6 nights Cost: from $3,995

The Carolinas Bike Tour

Hosted by: backroads.

Traverse the Carolinas, climb the Blue Ridge Mountains, and experience Southern Appalachian culture with Backroads, an over 40-year-old company known for its upscale, active trips.

Highlights of this five-day itinerary include riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway (a 469-mile roadway famed for its sweeping views and thrilling elevations), navigating retired pro cyclist George Hincapie’s Gran Fondo route, staying at Hincapie’s Hotel Domestique, and visiting Asheville’s 8,000-acre Biltmore estate.

When you’re not pedaling , you’ll likely be eating classic Carolina fare, like farm-to-table meals and sipping craft beer, listening to live bluegrass, viewing local art, and simply soaking in the beauty of Carolina countryside. The distance and difficulty of the cycling is scalable to your fitness level, ranging from 80 to 211 total miles and 4,600 feet to 16,800 feet in elevation gain.

Location: Greenville, South Carolina, to Asheville, North Carolina Duration: 5 days/4 nights Cost: from $3,599

Las Vegas Mountain Bike Tour

Hosted by: escape adventures.

If mountain biking is your preferred mode of two-wheeled travel, consider this half-day or full-day guided tour through Red Rock National Conservation Area , a national reserve home to 100 miles of singletrack located just 17 miles from the glittering Las Vegas Strip.

You’ll cover between seven to 12 miles on a dirt trail with the option of a Specialized full-suspension mountain bike or a Specialized Levo mountain e-bike , making the tour accessible for a wide range of levels from beginner to expert.

Customers rave about their experiences with Escape Adventures, praising the high-quality, well-maintained bikes and personable guides. The company, in operation since 1992, boasts a five-star rating from over 700 reviews on TripAdvisor.

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada Duration: Half-day (4 hours) or full-day (7 hours) Cost: from $150

Glacier National Park Bike Tour

Soak in the splendor of this million-plus acre National Park with a guided tour by Trek Travel, a Wisconsin-based company praised for its thoughtfully planned trips, high-end bikes , and knowledgeable guides.

Over the six-day trip, you’ll pedal 163 miles and climb more than 9,000 feet of mountainous terrain, including a stint on iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a nearly 50-mile road that brings together the east and west sides of the park and intersects the Continental Divide, per the National Park Service .

As you cycle, you’ll see glacial lakes, snowy mountains, cedar forests, alpine tundra, and more. The itinerary also features time off the saddle, including a rafting trip along the Flathead River (keep your eyes peeled for bears, moose, and other wildlife), plus a trip to the local farmer’s market in the resort town Whitefish.

Location: Glacier National Park, Montana Duration: 6 days/5 nights Cost: from $4,599

Denver City Tour

Hosted by: mile high bike tours.

Explore Colorado’s capital city in this approximately 9-mile tour that combines history, architecture, public art, and more. Operated by Mile High Bike Tours, which currently holds a five-star rating on TripAdvisor, the route charts through downtown Denver and along the Cherry Creek and Platte River Trails, highlighting landmarks like the historic Daniels and Fisher Clock Tower, Mile High Stadium, Coors Field, the Pepsi Center, and more.

All tours are led by born-and-raised Coloradans, who provide a local’s perspective on great things to do both in the Mile High City and around the Centennial State, according to the company. These folks will also adjust the experience to local happenings, per the company. If there’s a festival on the route, for example, the group will take a pit stop to listen to the music or, if it starts raining, everyone will duck inside for a beer. (E-bikes available for an additional charge!)

Location: Denver, Colorado Duration: 2.5 hours Cost: $65

Kentucky Bike Tour

Pedal rolling farmland hills, sample craft bourbon, and explore the history of the Bluegrass State in this guided group tour through Kentucky. Joey Coe, a trip expert at Backroads who grew up in Louisville and helped design this tour, says the trip is about giving participants “a real sense of connection to Kentucky” and “access to places that you could really only get if you were with someone that grew up there.”

With that ethos, the trip takes riders on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail , a region encompassing large-scale distilleries where you’ll cycle past idyllic pastures, sprawling country estates, and farms that raise Thoroughbred stallions.

Off the bike, you’ll jam out to bluegrass music, do a behind-the-scenes distillery tour, and sample Southern cuisine while staying in plush accommodations, including a medieval-style castle hotel with its own farm-to-table restaurant.

Participants rave about the experience, describing it as “the trip of a lifetime” and “very far off the usual tourist trail.” Several mileage options, ranging from 16 to 55 miles a day, make the experience accessible for varying abilities.

Location: Louisville to Lexington, Kentucky Duration: 5 days/4 nights Cost: from $3,499

Mt. Rushmore & Badlands Bike Tour

Hosted by: bicycle adventures.

Visit two National Parks, two National Monuments, and a whole bunch of other historic sites on this week-long group tour from the Badlands to the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Highlights include a stint in Badlands National Park , a 244,000-acre expanse home to bison, big-horn sheep, and black-footed ferrets; a visit to Mammoth Hot Springs Site, an archeological dig that boasts the largest collection of mammoth remains on the planet; a stop at Wind Cave National Park, one of the oldest National Parks; a climb up to breathtaking Mt. Rushmore National Monument; and a ride to Devils Tower National Monument , a ginormous geologic feature you may recognize from the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind .

Daily mileage ranges from 30 to 60, with day four scheduled as an “off-the-bike” day in which you have the option to hike up to Black Elk Peak, the tallest point east of the Rockies.

Location: Rapid City, South Dakota Duration: 7 days/6 nights Cost: from $3,940

Florida Keys Bike Tour

Hosted by: great bike tours.

Get a dose of mid-winter vitamin D with this January trip to south Florida, where temperatures average in the mid-70s. Marketed as “very easy” in terms of riding intensity, this group tour, led by raved-about travel company Great Bike Tours involves pedaling 15 to 30 miles a day on flat terrain with generous tailwinds and e-bikes available. That leisurely pace sets the tone for a week of laid-back vacationing as you explore the Everglades, the Florida Keys, and Key West.

Highlights include a ride through Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to endangered species including the manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther; a private kayak tour through John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park; visits to a rehab hospital for injured sea turtles as well as the Dolphin Research Center; and a sailing cruise complete with bottomless cocktails.

Location: Miami, Florida Duration: 6 days/5 nights Cost: From $3,895

The Heart of New Hampshire

Hosted by: ciclismo classico.

Led by Ciclismo Classico founder and New Hampshire native Lauren Hefferon, this group tour provides an intimate look at the southern region of the state dubbed “Switzerland of America.” You’ll pedal past winding rivers, under covered bridges, and through historic hamlets, averaging 29 to 45 miles a day on rolling, hilly terrain.

The adventures continue off the bike, with a hike up Mount Monadnock , a 3,165-foot National Natural Landmark; tours to local wineries and art galleries; and a variety of culinary highlights. Think: Honey and liqueur tastings at a beekeeping business, a visit to L.A. Burdick’s chocolate factory, and daily samplings at gelato shops and farm stands.

Location: Keene, New Hampshire Duration: 5 days/4 nights Cost: from $2,395

Washington D.C. Wilderness Ride

Hosted by: dc cycling concierge.

You probably don’t envision nature when picturing our nation’s capital, but this half-day tour explores a surprisingly serene side of Washington D.C. Pedal through the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens , an oasis within Anacostia National Park populated by beavers, turtles, and dragonflies. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, as birds of prey are sometimes spotted on the tour.

Other highlights include views of the National Arboretum; a stop at the newly constructed Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge; and a visit to Bladensburg Waterfront where the Battle of Bladensburg occurred in 1814, famous for being the only battle in U.S history where the sitting president (James Madison) was present, according to guide and local historian Jeff Miller. All in, you’ll ride about 22 to 30 miles at a “decent pace” with several breaks along the way.

Location: Washington, D.C. Duration: 3-4 hours Cost: from $155

California Wine Country Bike Tour

Hosted by: sojourn bicycling vacations.

Wine lovers, this trip is for you. You’ll pedal through Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley, famed for its Zinfandels; Russian River Valley , known for New World Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines; and Alexander Valley, where 15,000 acres of vineyards support 42 wineries, many of whom produce Cabernets, according to Sonoma County Tourism . Along the way, you’ll stop for winery and vineyard tours plus samplings of all the delicious vinos.

Additional highlights include picnicking under towering Redwoods, pedaling past the Pacific Ocean and eucalyptus groves, and staying at a cozy inn that boasts a hot tub or jacuzzi in every room. Daily mileage options range from 11 to 54 miles, with limited e-bikes available.

Location: Santa Rosa, California Duration: 6 days/5 nights Cost: from $3,975

Death Valley Weekend Cycling

Hosted by: rei adventures.

Explore the otherworldly wonders of Death Valley National Park—think: volcanic craters, multi-colored sandstone, salt flats, and towering sand dunes—with this three-day cycling tour that’s great for everyone from beginners (who can e-bike ) to experienced riders.

No matter your speed, enjoy the solitude of Death Valley as you pedal the quiet, smooth paved roads where traffic is minimal. Expect epic sunrises and sunsets, and if you plan your visit in the spring, you’ll likely see a large super-bloom of wildflowers spread across the valley.

Another highlight, no matter when you go, is the day three stopover at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America (elevation: 282 feet below sea level).

One more plus: Compared to other tour groups, this one minimizes the amount of time spent in the van. All in, you’ll pedal 113 miles with just six hours of driving. Riders eager for more can add extra distance on days two and three to reach a total of 186 miles.

Location: Death Valley National Park, California Duration: 3 days/2 nights Cost: from $2,199

U.S. and Aspen Snowmass Tour

Hosted by: pure adventures.

Designed for serious road riders comfortable pedaling at altitude (e-bikes are not an option here), this guided tour takes you on routes that pro cyclists tackle in series including the USA Pro Cycling Challenge and the Colorado Classic. Highlights include climbing 2,625 feet to the top of Vail Pass (elevation: 10,666 feet), pedaling in Glenwood Canyon alongside the Colorado River, riding along the Roaring Fork River to the small picturesque town of Carbondale, and climbing to the Maroon Bells, dubbed the “ most photographed mountains in North America .”

All that exertion will likely work up an appetite , which is good since the itinerary includes a three-course dinner in Glenwood Springs (a resort town brimming with natural hot springs), a sunset BBQ cookout, and an evening meal at the historic Redstone Inn, where the menu features hearty pastas, steaks, and classic American desserts (apple crisp, anyone?).

Location: Vail to Snowmass Village, Colorado Duration: 7 days/6 nights Cost: $4,200

Bikes, Bites & Brews Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour

Hosted by: bobby’s bike hike chicago.

This casual-paced, 13-mile guided tour combines two of our favorite things: cycling and eating. You’ll sample fare from the Windy City’s “four favorite food groups:” pizza, hot dogs, brownies, and beer, according to the tour company’s website .

The daytime tour takes you through northside neighborhoods, passing Lincoln Park, the Old Town Historic District, and Wrigleyville (home to Wrigley Field, where the Chicago Cubs play), and more. And the evening route charts through downtown, encompassing highlights like the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park (a hub of public art), and Buckingham Fountain, plus others.

Both tours include deep-dish pizza from locals’ favorite Lou Malnati’s plus lots of other bites, as well as history lessons on Chicago’s classic food dishes and local neighborhoods.

Location: Chicago, Illinois Duration: 4 hours Cost: from $80

Jenny is a Boulder, Colorado-based health and fitness journalist. She’s been freelancing for Runner’s World since 2015 and especially loves to write human interest profiles, in-depth service pieces and stories that explore the intersection of exercise and mental health. Her work has also been published by SELF , Men’s Journal , and Condé Nast Traveler , among other outlets. When she’s not running or writing, Jenny enjoys coaching youth swimming, rereading Harry Potter , and buying too many houseplants. 

Cycling Tips

Create a Bike Route for All Types of Rides

How to Increase Cycling Intensity

Post-Crash Safety Checklist for Your Body and Bike

What's the Average Cycling Distance?

12 Tips for Your First 50-Miler

What to Know About VO2 Max as You Age

Century Ride Tips for Success

How to Increase Cycling Cadence

3 Workouts to Help You Get Faster

How to Fit Cadence Training Into Your Schedule

Quick Tips for Making Your Bike More Comfortable

How to Become a Better Climber

• MAGAZINE OFFERS
• BIKE INSURANCE
• Best Products
• Maintenance
• Accessories
• Long-Term Reviews
• First Look Friday
• Bike of the Week
• Tech Features
• Routes and Rides
• Bike Galleries
• BikeRadar Bargains
• Buyer's Guides
• Fitness & Training
• Sizing & Fit
• Mountain Biking UK
• Cycling Plus
• BikeRadar Podcast

Best cycling destinations in the US

America’s top 10 locations for cyclists

Jill Rosell

fred dreier in the us

It’s time to fire up the family wagon, tie down the bikes and hit the road for a cycling vacation. But where to go? BikeRadar conducted an informal survey of pro and amateur riders from various regions of the US to pick 10 of America’s best cycling destinations.

MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Marin is hardly a secret in the cycling world, and you’ve undoubtedly heard a buddy’s gushing account of the redwood-lined roads and trails that crisscross Mount Tamalpais, Muir Woods National Monument and the Marin Headlands. Guess what? Your buddy is spot on, as Marin County offers up a never-ending supply of sublime loops and out-and-backs, just a short spin across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.

From Mill Valley, the 2,600ft climb up Mt Tamalpais rewards riders with a twisting descent to Stinson Beach and Highway 1. The Bolinas Ridge trail from Olena to Fairfax takes off-road riders along tracks that helped give birth to the original mountain bike. And if you’re looking for a serious challenge? Start in San Rafael and tackle the Mount Tam Century’s 100-mile lollypop course.

What it offers

– The challenging but beautiful Mount Tamalpais climb.

– Highway 1’s route through Stinson Beach and Tomales Bay.

– Classic mountain bike trails in Fairfax and Bolinas.

Why it’s the best

Some of the country’s most scenic rides, just a short spin from San Francisco.

How to get there

Fly to San Francisco International Airport and drive north on Highway 101, across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Best bike shops

Fairfax Cyclery , 2020 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Fairfax, (415) 721-7644

Bici Sport , 143 Kentucky Street, Petaluma, (707) 775-4676

Tam Bikes , 357 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, (415) 389-1900

ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

The south-east’s most revered cycling town, Asheville is home to a plethora of long, hilly road loops through the Blue Ridge mountains, as well as challenging mountain biking in nearby Pisgah National Forest.

“We have no flats anywhere – you’re always climbing or descending,” said Mike Smith, a lifelong Asheville resident and employee at Liberty Bicycles . The highest point east of the Mississippi, Mt Mitchell, is a 35-mile ride away on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville offers a wide range of dining and hospitality opportunities, too, but we recommend grabbing a cold one at the Wedge Brewing Company .

– Highest climb east of the Mississippi.

– Challenging mountain bike trails in Pisgah National Forest.

– The endless, wide roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

For a combination of road and mountain biking, no place east of the Mississippi comes close.

Asheville has its own regional airport, or a two-hour drive east of Charlotte will get you to where you need to be.

BioWheels , 76 Biltmore Avenue, (828) 232-0300

Liberty Bicycles , 1378 Hendersonville Road, (828) 274-2453

Pro Bikes , 610 Haywood Road, Suite B, (828) 253-2800

Ride around Asheville and you should expect nothing but climbs and descents

TUCSON, ARIZONA

We don’t recommend Tucson in the summer, but the city is one of the country’s best cycling destinations from December through to March, when conditions are usually a steady 70 degrees and sunny. The winding Catalina Highway climb up the 9,100ft Mount Lemmon is one of the south-west’s most famous climbs.

Sandy mountain bike trail networks crisscross the nearby Rincon, Santa Rita, Catalina and Tucson mountain ranges. You’re bound to see a smattering of pro riders on the Saturday Shootout group ride, which meets at the Starbucks at University Blvd, just west of the University of Arizona campus. Watch out, though – the Shootout reaches top speed as soon as riders clear the city limit.

– Winter riding taking in some stunning roads and climbs.

– The Willow Springs, Starr Pass and Robles mountain bike trail networks, plus the La Milagrosa and Chiva Falls trails in the Rincon mountains.

When the rest of the country is buried by snow and rain, Tucson is high and dry.

Flights into Tucson International Airport are regular. Otherwise, it ’ s an eight-hour drive east of Los Angeles or a two-hour drive south of Phoenix.

Sabino Cycles , 7045 E Tanque Verde Road, (520) 885-3666

Fairwheel Bikes , 1110 East 6th Street, (520) 884-9018

Ordinary Bike Shop , 311 East 7th Street, (520) 622-6488

AUSTIN, TEXAS

Texas’s capital is heaven for group rides. Each day, between five and 20 organized road outings leave from various meeting spots around the city. Some, such as the Sunday RoadKill and Wednesday Hump Day Nooner , are conversation paced socials. Others, such as Saturday’s Tri-Cyclist , are traditional, fast-paced rides. The online calendar at Austin on Two Wheels is a helpful guide to the various events.

The riding around Austin ranges from flat and fast to hilly, with challenging climbs in the Balcones Canyonlands wildlife refuge north-west of town.

– Year-round road riding.

– Group rides every day of the week.

– Flat and hilly terrain.

If Austin is good enough for Lance Armstrong to train in, chances are it’s good enough for you.

Flights run daily to and from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Mellow Johnny’s , 400 Nueces Street, (512) 473-0222

Austin Tri-Cyclist , 923 Barton Springs Road, (512) 494-9252

Bicycle Sport Shop , 517 South Lamar Boulevard, (512) 477-3472

DURANGO, COLORADO

There’s a reason the world’s best mountain bike racers favoured Durango during the sport’s Nineties heyday. The extensive trail networks that crisscross the surrounding San Juan mountains start downtown. “It’s the only non-ski resort town I’ve been to where the trails are accessible right from town,” said pro mountain biker Todd Wells, who lives in Durango.

The 500-mile Colorado Trail connects Durango with Denver, and provides numerous alpine loops through pine forests. The Overend Mountain Park trails (yes, it’s named after local mountain bike hero Ned Overend) also start in town. And the Hermosa Creek, Kennebec Pass and Cascade Creek networks provide longer loops for more skilled and adventurous riders.

The town also has worthy road riding, including the 55-mile trek across the Coal Bank and Molas passes to Silverton. And when you’ve hung up the bike for the day, head to The Summit for a pint and burger.

– Mountain bike trails for all levels of riders, starting downtown.

– Road climbs of more than 12,000ft passes on the historic route to Silverton.

– An easy base for those who want to explore the Colorado Trail.

Ned Overend, John Tomac, Missy Giove and many other greats of American mountain biking cut their teeth on Durango’s trails.

Durango has a regional airport (Durango-La Plata County) with regular flights from Denver.

San Juan Cycles , 48 County Rd 250, (970) 259-6014

Mountain Bike Specialists , 949 Main Ave, (970) 247-4066

Durango Cyclery , 43 East 13th Street, (970) 247-0747

PEAK TO PEAK HIGHWAY, COLORADO

Colorado’s oldest official scenic byway, the 65-mile Peak to Peak Highway made our list because of the numerous road and mountain bike routes that spring from its pavement, as well as its soaring views of the Front Range.

Starting at Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the route winds south on Highway 7 beneath the 14,259ft Longs Peak and on to Black Hawk. It undulates between 7,500 and 10,000ft along the route. There are numerous bailout options along the route, with Golden Gate, Coal Creek, Boulder, Left Hand, Jamestown and South St Vrain canyons leading down to the flats.

Want a challenge? From Black Hawk, ride over to Idaho Springs and tackle the 23-mile climb up 14,265ft Mt Evans.

– 65 miles of long climbs and fast descents at the foot of Colorado’s Front Range.

– Golden Gate, Coal Creek, Boulder, Left Hand, Jamestown and St Vrain canyon descents.

– Mountain biking at the Eldora ski resort, just outside Nederland.

Lung-busting altitude just a short drive from Denver and Boulder.

Get to Denver, then drive for about an hour and a half, heading for Estes Park.

Estes Park Mountain Shop , 2050 Big Thompson Avenue, (970) 586-6548

Happy Trails Bicycle Shop, 98 Highway 119 SNederland,(303) 258-3435

BEND, OREGON

Forget about Oregon’s rainy reputation – Bend is kept high and dry on the Cascade range’s soaring volcanoes, which also supply numerous road climbs and mountain biking trails. Many cyclists liken Bend’s high, arid climate to that of Boulder, only without the competitive crowds of bike racers and triathletes.

Looking for a road ride? Check out the route for the Cascade Cycling Classic , the longest-running elite stage race in the US. And if you’re a mountain biker, the trails from Mount Bachelor to Bend provide 45 miles of challenging singletrack.

Don’t feel like exploring on your own? Contact the folks at Cog Wild , who provide guided tours and shuttle runs to the best trails in the region. Of course, no ride is complete without a stop at one of Bend’s many breweries. We recommend Deschutes or the Bend Brewing Company .

– Extensive opportunities for mountain, road and cyclocross fans.

– Year-round riding in a high but dry climate.

– Long climbs.

Just like Boulder, only without the crowds.

If you can get to Portland International Airport it’s a three-and-a-half hour drive on Highway 97.

Sagebrush Cycles , 35 SW Century Drive, (541) 389-4224

Hutch's Bicycles (541) 382-6248

The Cascade range ’s snowy peaks make a striking background in Bend, Oregon

LEHIGH VALLEY, PENNSYLVANIA

One of the north-east’s unofficial cycling capitals, the Lehigh Valley region of Allentown and Bethlehem offers an easy cycling getaway for riders from New York and Philadelphia. The region is dotted with challenging hills and covered in a network of small farming roads, many of which are used by the area’s Amish residents.

The Delaware river valley provides challenging terrain, especially around the towns of Jim Thorpe and Palmerton. The Lehigh velodrome has been holding regular track races since 1975, and is the reason a smattering of pro roadies and track cyclists still live and train in the area. And the Lehigh Wheelmen Association , which has been around since 1951, organizes group rides and races each week.

– Hilly riding on empty farm roads.

– Trexlertown’s Lehigh velodrome.

– Regular group rides and a robust cycling infrastructure.

Only an hour-and-a-half west of New York City and two hours north of Philly, it’s well within reach for a weekend getaway.

From New York, head west on Interstate 78 for 90 miles. From Philadelphia drive north on I-76 to I-476 for 75 miles.

Genesis Bicycles , 126 Bushkill St, Easton, (610) 253-1140

Bike Line , 1728 West Tilghman Street, Allentown, (610) 437-6100

Cutters Bike Shop , 418 East 3rd St, Bethlehem, (610) 419-4027

BURLINGTON, VERMONT

Burlington is up there, about 35 miles shy of the Canadian border, but the mountainous terrain and seclusion make it a paradise for cycling (once the snow has melted). The riding is punctuated by steep, short passes such as the App, Lincoln and Middlebury gaps. We recommend tackling the Smuggler’s Notch climb on Highway 108, which is part of a larger loop to Stowe ski area and back.

For off-road riding, check out the local Catamount ski area, which is the gateway to several great trail networks. Catamount also has a weekly Wednesday night mountain bike racing series. Pro cyclist Lea Davison, who grew up in nearby Jericho, recommends the resort as a ride-in, ride-out option. “It’s the idyllic Vermont bed and breakfast option, with trails right out the door, road loops and swimming holes close by.”

– Pristine mountain climbs and off-the-beaten-track remoteness.

– Rooty, rocky, East Coast-style mountain biking.

– Flatter roads along Lake Champlain.

You’ll be the only one on the road.

Get a flight to Burlington International Airport, or head north from Boston on I-93 and I-89 (about four hours).

Local Motion , 1 Steele St 103, (802) 861-2700

Earl’s Cyclery & Fitness , 2500 Williston Road, South Burlington, (802) 864-9197

Cycle Loft , 28 Cambridge St, Burlington, (781) 272-0870

The edge of Lake Champlain provides a natural route in Burlington, Vermont

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

You don’t need to race horses to appreciate the derby city. Louisville sits at the southern edge of the Ohio Valley, possibly the best region for rural road riding in the mid-west.

But we’re most excited about Louisville as a cycling destination because the city will host the 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships from 29 January to 3 February. You don’t have to be a hardcore fan to appreciate cyclo-cross, which provides some of the most spectator-friendly and exciting action in pro bike racing. Check it out.

– UCI cyclo-cross for 2013.

– Year-round riding on challenging terrain.

– A variety of group rides hosted by the Louisville Bicycle Club .

The cyclo-cross worlds don’t come around every day.

Louisville has its own international airport, with regular flights from many major cities.

On Your Left , 618 Baxter Avenue, (502) 749-6775

Bicycle Sport , 132 Breckenridge Lane, (502) 897-2611

VO2 Multisport , 131 St Matthews Ave, (502) 290-7433

Feeling inspired? Find mountain biking holidays in the US with MuchBetterAdventures , or share your top American cycling routes with BikeRadar Training.

Share this article

• Terms & Conditions
• Subscribe to our magazines
• Manage preferences

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• United States

The 10 Best Long-Distance Cycling Trails in the United States

Whether visiting a major city or bucolic countryside, traveling by bicycle is a convenient and romantic way to see more of a destination at your own pace. Although not as bike-friendly as European countries like the Netherlands and Denmark, the United States possesses a surprisingly extensive network of trails ripe for exploration. These 10 long-distance trails across the U.S. stand out for their natural beauty, access to historic sites, and options for beginners and seasoned cyclists alike. 

Washington Parks

This 314-mile trail gives riders an up-close look with Washington state’s diverse and remarkable landscapes. Beginning in Sedro-Woolley in the shadow of North Cascades National Park , the trail heads west to Anacortes to pick up a ferry to the San Juan Islands, known for its thriving orca population, lush scenery, and deserted roadways. After touring the archipelago, the route traces south along Whidbey island to pick up another ferry to the mainland at Port Townsend.  From here, the trail heads west to circle the high peaks and dense forest comprising Olympic National Park . Riders will climb more than 15,000 feet over the duration of the trail, so training and conditioning is recommended beforehand. Alternatively, focusing on one portion of the route, such as the calmer San Juan Islands, is doable for more casual cyclists. 

Utah Cliffs Loop

Southwestern Utah boasts extraordinary canyons and otherworldly rock formations. Beginning and ending in the town of St. George, cyclists can traverse sub-alpine forest and highlands for 288 miles round-trip to witness the region's dramatic landscapes up-close and personal. The main highlight for many is Zion National Park , known for its striking rocks, river canyon treks, and lush mesas. The trail takes in many lesser known sites with smaller crowds, such as Snow Canyon State Park, the Pine Valley Mountains, and Grafton (a ghost town used for western films). The total distance, high elevation, and less predictable weather conditions make this trail a fit for experienced cyclists only. 

Lewis & Clark Trail

Although the famous explorers traveled by boat, this trail follows a similar route from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest. Spanning 3,539 miles from Hartford, Illinois, to Seaside, Oregon, this trail is for the truly adventurous. Completing the entire route takes between two and three months for most riders. On its way through the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains, the trail passes many natural wonders and historic sites, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center in Great Falls, Montana. Instead, cyclists can also choose a smaller portion, such as the Missouri River corridor between St. Louis and Kansas City, for a shorter multi-day trip. In its entirety, trail conditions fluctuate from dirt paths to paved trails, so a sturdy bike is recommended. 

Great Allegheny Passage

Covering 150 miles of former railway between Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Cumberland, Maryland, the Great Allegheny Passage is a popular route for its scenic journey along the Youghiogheny and Casselman Rivers and through small towns and forest. Numerous access points mean the trail is feasible for both casual rides and multi-day excursions. If you intend on riding the full route, be sure to spend a night in Ohiopyle for its quaint downtown and proximity to two Frank Lloyd Wright marvels: Kentuck Knob and Fallingwater . As riders approach the Maryland border, they will pass through the 3,294-foot-long Big Savage Tunnel and then cross the Mason-Dixon line. 

Ohio to Erie Trail

Spanning 326 miles across the Buckeye state from Cincinnati to Cleveland, the Ohio to Erie Trail is well-suited for casual rides and multi-day journeys alike. Portions of the trail follow abandoned railways, keeping cyclists safe from vehicle traffic and offering more scenic surroundings. Along the way, the trail meanders through farmland, historic villages, downtown Columbus, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park . History buffs will have a packed itinerary between the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, and numerous heritages sites and museums in between. 

Denali Park Road

Although it is the shortest trail on the list at 92 miles, it is by far the most remote. Denali National Park occupies 6 million acres of mountainous wilderness between Anchorage and Fairbanks and serves as habitat for caribou, grizzlies, and other wildlife. Denali’s single park road is paved for the first 15 miles before changing to gravel. Vehicles are restricted to 15 mph along the latter portion, making it safe for cyclists. Riding between Denali’s six campgrounds is a great way to see more of the park than a bus tour offers. The first campsite is just a quarter-mile past the park entrance, with the farthest two being Igloo Creek at mile 35 and Wonder Lake at Mile 85. Buses are fitted with bike racks, so cyclists can plan for a one-way trip in and leisurely ride out.  

Florida Connector

In its entirety, this 519.5-mile trail crosses Florida’s interior twice. Starting from St. Augustine’s Atlantic shores, the path runs southwest across gently rolling terrain to Fort Myers and the Gulf of Mexico, from where it cuts back east to Fort Lauderdale. The trail is a mix of roadside bike lanes and separated trail. While some urban sections, such as Orlando, can be a bit hectic, the Florida Connector trail grants access to Florida’s less developed interior of swamps, farmland, and orange groves, too. Remote stretches between Fort Myers and Fort Lauderdale have limited amenities, especially amid the Everglades and around Lake Okeechobee. However, this is where riders have the best chance of spotting birds, reptiles, armadillos, and alligators. Cycling conditions are best between December and March when temperatures aren’t sweltering and hurricanes are less of a risk. 

Erie Canalway Trail

This trail traces the Erie Canal for approximately 400 miles between Buffalo and Albany. The flat terrain and frequent entry points in cities, towns, and villages along the way make it ideal for all skill levels and day trips. From the trail, cyclists will pass many historic locks, bridges, and gates from the canal’s days as a commercial shipping route. There are also hundreds of access points and places to rent kayaks to break up the ride. A nonprofit organization, Parks & Trails New York, organizes an annual bike tour that attracts hundreds of riders to complete the trail in one week. The ride is divided in 40 and 60 mile increments, making it doable for less experienced riders, too. 

Texas Hill Country Loop

This circular trail runs 311 miles from downtown Austin and back. The Texan capital and its bohemian neighborhoods are quite bike-friendly, and the Texas Hill Country Loop lets visitors get out and experience the state’s rural charm and natural beauty. The spring sees a burst of wildflowers and bluebonnets across the rolling hills. Although summer can be steamy, there are frequent places to stop for a dip, namely McKinney Falls State Park, Guadalupe River, and Blanco State Park. Other highlights include the Lyndon B. Johnson Historic Site and Gruene Hall , Texas’s longest-operating dance hall. The loop features sections with separated trails in the urban and suburban areas, while the rural stretches follow quieter county roads. 

Kingdom Trails

Rather than a single route, Kingdom Trails is an extensive network of recreation trails that collectively span more than 100 miles in northern Vermont. The rugged interior is excellent for mountain-biking, but there are family-friendly and beginner trails too. Both the Darling Hill and Moose Haven Forest trails feature more gradual terrain. A lift at Burke Mountain makes it easy for riders to speed downhill without a strenuous two-wheel ascent. Riders must purchase a membership to access the private trail system, which goes towards maintenance and conservation efforts. For optimum conditions, plan your visit between early summer and fall. 

Related Articles

More related articles.

Tailwind on every ride? – See e-bike trips

European Classic booking fast – see the trips

• Request a Catalog
• 866-464-8735

Select Date Range

Popular searches.

Denmark to Sweden Bike Tour

Croatia and The Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike Tour

Dolomites Hiking & Walking Tour

Cross Country USA: Portland to Portland Bike Tour

The Bucket List Trip from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine

Tour Duration

Cross Country

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Trek Domane SL 7

Starting from

$ 26,999.00 per person

Have a question?

The goal: ambitious. The training: intense. The opportunity: unrivaled. This is your ultimate bucket-list bike tour.

We are excited to offer our epic Cross Country USA trip from Portland to Portland again this year! If you're ready for the cross country bike trip of a lifetime, prepare to join Trek Travel on a bicycle tour that stretches from the Pacific to the Atlantic, across the northern tier of this beautiful country. As we bike across America, you'll ride 3,800 miles across 15 states over the course of 43 riding days—all from the saddle of a top-of-the-line Trek Domane bicycle, the use of which is included in your trip price. The average distance is 88 miles per day with the longest ride being 126 miles. You'll have 15 days at 100 miles or more, including multiple back to back centuries, and four rest days. Although the challenge and dedication to training is substantial, your Trek Travel guides will be with you every pedal stroke of the way, offering encouragement, mechanical and logistical support, camaraderie, and our renowned Trek Travel guest service. Our signature attention to detail and exhaustive planning and provisioning will leave you free to focus on riding. You'll accomplish more physically in 48 days than most people do in a lifetime!

Ride through the Columbia River Gorge past panoramic viewpoints and breathtaking sights like Multnomah Falls

Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, two of the world’s greatest explorers, as you travel the country like pioneers

Pedal past the eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires of South Dakota’s Badlands National Park

Catch a glimpse of Amish country in action as you make your way through the country roads and small towns of the Midwest

Revel in the spectacular scenery as you climb through New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Vermont’s Green Mountains, and New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Final day in Portland, Maine

Check this iconic trip off your Bucket List

Join us for the true adventure of a lifetime as you ride past some of the countries most iconic landmarks and historical sights. See the United States like never before as you pedal from the Pacific to the Atlantic.

What Guests are Saying

Trip was phenomenal, it was truly a ride of a lifetime and Trek Travel's attention to detail and the incredible staff are top notch. Would recommend this trip to all who have a desire to be taken care of in all areas, guides, equipment, safety, and organization. Truly a great opportunity to fulfill your dream of a lifetime, to ride cross country. THANK YOU TREK TRAVEL.

Mike, Trek Travel Guest

Trek Travel did an outstanding job each and every day for 7-weeks to make my lifelong dream of cycling across America come true. I could not have accomplished this big, audacious goal without Trek.

Dave, Trek Travel Guest

Thank you a million times for helping me make a lifetime dream come true! You all were awesome in every way.

Sybil, Trek Travel Guest

Badlands National Park

The awe-inspiring view changes with every turn as you pedal through the colorful spires and buttes of Badlands National Park.

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

August 21-october 7, 2025 limited availability.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

• Cross Country Hotel

Available bikes:

$ 26999.00 per person

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 5,999.00

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Portland International Airport (PDX)

Pick-up location :

Portland Marriott Waterfront, Portland, Oregon

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Portland International Jetport (PWM)

Drop-off location :

Press Hotel, Portland, Maine

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your bike across America adventure, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays.

We recommend that you fly into Portland International Airport (PDX), which is approximately 12 miles from downtown Portland. You can hail a taxi outside baggage claim, which will cost approximately $35 plus gratuity and should take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront (1401 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You will then shuttle approximately two hours to Astoria for a picnic and bike fit followed by your first ride. Please feel free to dress comfortably for the shuttle, but keep your riding clothes and gear handy and separate from your main luggage. You will be able to change at the hotel before the ride. Your main luggage will be stored until your room is ready.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Cannery Pier Hotel (503-325-4996), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Press Hotel. We recommend that you fly out of the Portland International Jetport (PWM), which is located about six miles from downtown. A taxi can be arranged with assistance from the front desk, takes about 20 minutes and will cost approximately $25 plus gratuity.

Day 1 Aug 22 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Aug 22 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Today is the day to get everything in order before embarking on your cross-country odyssey. After a two-hour shuttle to the town of Astoria, you will enjoy a hearty welcome lunch and brief introductions, and your guides will take time to ensure you have a comfortable fit on your bike. We recommend that you have a professional bike fit early in you... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Today is the day to get everything in order before embarking on your cross-country odyssey. After a two-hour shuttle to the town of Astoria, you will enjoy a hearty welcome lunch and brief introductions, and your guides will take time to ensure you have a comfortable fit on your bike. We recommend that you have a professional bike fit early in your training for the greatest efficiency and to reduce the risk of injury. Please bring your measurements, as well as your saddle, pedals, personal GPS unit, and any other equipment you would like affixed to your bike to this meeting so your guides can set up your bike to your requirements. Following the bike fit, safety tips and some introductory information, it's time for a short scenic spin from Astoria to Fort Stevens State Park and down to the Pacific Ocean where you can dip your wheel into the water to mark the official start of your journey. Use the rest of this ride to warm up your legs and make sure you are comfortable in the saddle. Your warm-up ride will be followed by a social hour and dinner, where your guides will discuss your upcoming adventure in more detail and answer any questions you may have. Read More

Cannery Pier Hotel

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Highlight of the Day

Dip your wheel in the Pacific Ocean

Pedal to Shipwreck Point to commemorate the official start of this epic journey.

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Astoria to Fort Stevens Return - Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 789 ft | 240 m

Day 2 Aug 23 - Astoria to Portland

Aug 23 - Astoria to Portland

Your adventure begins today as you depart Astoria and head for Portland on your first long ride of the trip! It's time to bid farewell to the West Coast and turn east as you ease into your first pedal strokes along Youngs River and through the beautiful and densely forested Clatsop State Forest. As you ride, the enclosed green canopy and winding roads gradually open up to bring you just north of Portland where you will continue southeast on the Scappoose-Vernonia Hi... Your adventure begins today as you depart Astoria and head for Portland on your first long ride of the trip! It's time to bid farewell to the West Coast and turn east as you ease into your first pedal strokes along Youngs River and through the beautiful and densely forested Clatsop State Forest. As you ride, the enclosed green canopy and winding roads gradually open up to bring you just north of Portland where you will continue southeast on the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway and directly into downtown. Explore one of America's most bike-friendly cities this evening as you relish the feeling of accomplishment from completing your first full day in the saddle. Read More

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Ride through Portland

Get a glimpse of what makes Portland a Platinum level Bicycle Friendly Community during your first big ride.

Astoria, OR to Portland, OR - Approximately 100 mi | 161 km and 4,768 ft | 1,453 m

Day 3 Aug 24 - Portland to Hood River

Aug 24 - Portland to Hood River

You'll depart Portland this morning on a network of popular bike trails and lanes. Once in Troutdale, you will ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway 30 that separates Washington from Oregon. The north side of this 75-mile scenic byway boasts spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge while the south is blessed with a collection of astonishing waterfalls. Take the time to stop at Columbia Point, one of the most scenic outlooks on the journey, and visit... You'll depart Portland this morning on a network of popular bike trails and lanes. Once in Troutdale, you will ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway 30 that separates Washington from Oregon. The north side of this 75-mile scenic byway boasts spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge while the south is blessed with a collection of astonishing waterfalls. Take the time to stop at Columbia Point, one of the most scenic outlooks on the journey, and visit the Vista House which was built as a rest stop for early travelers. As you finish your ride, don't forget to look out onto the river, as Hood River is renowned as one of the best windsurfing locations in the U.S. Tonight is yours to explore. Take a stroll down Oak Street and dine in one of the many tasty bistros. Read More

Hampton Inn

Breakfast | Lunch

Ride the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway

Enjoy the view as you pedal along this scenic byway, including the famed Multnomah Falls.

Portland, OR to Hood River, OR - Approximately 75 mi | and 121 km and 3,750 ft | 1,143 m

Day 4 Aug 25 - Hood River to Condon

Aug 25 - Hood River to Condon

Depart this windsurfing and mountain-biking hotspot to continue following the Lewis and Clark Trail along the water. Cycle through the five-mile Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail that passes through two climate zones and is bordered by numerous types of foliage and plants. The route hugs the Columbia River on Interstate 84 for about 15 miles before turning inland. Finish the day’s ride winding past rolling ranch lands, and tackling the climbs through Cottonwood Canyon Sta... Depart this windsurfing and mountain-biking hotspot to continue following the Lewis and Clark Trail along the water. Cycle through the five-mile Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail that passes through two climate zones and is bordered by numerous types of foliage and plants. The route hugs the Columbia River on Interstate 84 for about 15 miles before turning inland. Finish the day’s ride winding past rolling ranch lands, and tackling the climbs through Cottonwood Canyon State Park and Recreation Area. We’ll be spending the night in Condon, a proud, century-old farming community nestled between miles of rolling, golden wheat fields in Eastern Oregon. Read More

Hotel Condon | Condon Motel

Stay at Historic Hotel Condon

Built in 1920, the historic Hotel Condon offers classic charm with a quaint, “small-town America” atmosphere.

Hood River, OR to Condon, OR - Approximately 94 mi | 151 km and 7,835 ft | 2,388 m

Day 5 Aug 26 - Condon to Hermiston

Aug 26 - Condon to Hermiston

After a hilly start this morning, we'll reach the small town of Heppner, known as the “Gateway to the Blues.” Pedal a short stretch of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway before gradually descending back towards the Columbia River. Enjoy dinner at Nookie’s restaurant, home of the Hermiston Brewing Company & Tap House. This historic building housed a Plymouth dealership for many years in the early 1940s, but now offers over 15 beers produced in-house! Spend the nigh... After a hilly start this morning, we'll reach the small town of Heppner, known as the “Gateway to the Blues.” Pedal a short stretch of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway before gradually descending back towards the Columbia River. Enjoy dinner at Nookie’s restaurant, home of the Hermiston Brewing Company & Tap House. This historic building housed a Plymouth dealership for many years in the early 1940s, but now offers over 15 beers produced in-house! Spend the night in Hermiston, once known as home of Six Mile House, an old-west hotel that served as a stopover for weary travelers, and is now famous for watermelon farms. Read More

Holiday Inn Express

Cross the Blue Mountains

Continue to roughly follow the route of Lewis and Clark as you cross over the Blue Mountains.

Condon, OR to Hermiston, OR - Approximately 90 mi | 145 km and 4,087 ft | 1,246 m

Day 6 Aug 27 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Aug 27 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Today is a relatively short ride as we make our way into Washington. Pedal through high-desert sage and the farmland producing the sweet onions, wheat, and wine that give Walla Walla its flavor. Finish your ride in the heart of town where the tree-lined streets are lined with a mix of vintage shops, boutiques, cafes, and bookstores. This evening, venture out to enjoy a wine tasting and dinner of your choice.

The Finch Hotel

Enter State #2 and discover Walla Walla

Walla Walla is one of the most beautiful towns in Washington and has over 30 tasting rooms featuring varietals from the surrounding wine cou... Walla Walla is one of the most beautiful towns in Washington and has over 30 tasting rooms featuring varietals from the surrounding wine country. Read More

Hermiston, OR to Walla Walla, WA - Approximately 70 mi | 113 km and 3,014ft | 919 m

Day 7 Aug 28 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Aug 28 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Climb out of Walla Walla on gently rolling hills as you make your way through eastern Washington's beautiful golden fields of wheat. Today you will work hard to get to Idaho, the third state of your journey, but the effort will be well worth it as you enjoy a long, winding descent into the state alongside the gentle Asotin Creek and the powerful Snake River. Shortly after crossing the border you will find yourself in Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake ... Climb out of Walla Walla on gently rolling hills as you make your way through eastern Washington's beautiful golden fields of wheat. Today you will work hard to get to Idaho, the third state of your journey, but the effort will be well worth it as you enjoy a long, winding descent into the state alongside the gentle Asotin Creek and the powerful Snake River. Shortly after crossing the border you will find yourself in Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Due to a system of locks and dams, Lewiston is accessible by some ocean-going vessels and is the easternmost port on the west coast. Read More

Walla Walla, WA to Lewiston, ID - Approximately 98 mi | 158 km and 4,870 ft | 1,484 m

Day 8 Aug 29 - Lewiston to Kamiah

Aug 29 - Lewiston to Kamiah

Soon after departing Lewiston you will enter the land of the Nez Perce Native American tribe. Cruise through undulating hills and scattered towns as you uncover this magnificent gateway to the West. With many areas to hunt, fish, hike, and farm, the Nez Perce have made this area home since before the history of the West was recorded. Enjoy the striking views from the banks of the Clearwater River into the hills above as you make your way to the small town of Kamiah.

Clearwater 12 Motel or Clearwater Motel

Lewiston, ID to Kamiah, ID - Approximately 80 mi | 129 km and 5,725 ft | 1,744 m

Day 9 Aug 30 - Kamiah to Lolo

Aug 30 - Kamiah to Lolo

Today's epic ride follows the historic Route 12 into the Bitterroot Mountains and over Lolo Pass. You'll pedal along the banks of the Clearwater River this morning and the Lochsa River this afternoon, both of which are lined by majestic pines. Enjoy the serene yet striking scenery as you roughly follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The road climbs gently until the last few miles, which greet you with steeper terrain and sweeping views. Near the end of the rid... Today's epic ride follows the historic Route 12 into the Bitterroot Mountains and over Lolo Pass. You'll pedal along the banks of the Clearwater River this morning and the Lochsa River this afternoon, both of which are lined by majestic pines. Enjoy the serene yet striking scenery as you roughly follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The road climbs gently until the last few miles, which greet you with steeper terrain and sweeping views. Near the end of the ride, you'll reach the top of Lolo Pass at 5,233 feet, which is also the Montana border. Say hello to state number four and a new time zone! All that's left is a short descent to the Lodge at Lolo Hot Springs. It's a great place to rest and soak your legs after the day's climb. Read More

The Lodge at Lolo Hot Springs

Enter State #4 and summit Lolo Pass

Enjoy breathtaking views as you climb along the Clearwater River and into the Bitterroot Mountains and Montana.

Kamiah, ID to Lolo, MT - Approximately 115 mi | 185 km and 6,451 ft | 1,966 m

Day 10 Aug 31 - Lolo to Missoula

Aug 31 - Lolo to Missoula

Enjoy a relaxed morning with your fellow riders as you get used to the time change, because this short day is nearly all downhill! Today you finish descending the gorgeous, winding road from Lolo Pass into the town of Missoula—home of the University of Montana. Take a look around at the peaks dominating the horizon, as this town lies at the convergence of five separate mountain ranges. It's your choice for lunch so enjoy your favorite foods as you soak in the scen... Enjoy a relaxed morning with your fellow riders as you get used to the time change, because this short day is nearly all downhill! Today you finish descending the gorgeous, winding road from Lolo Pass into the town of Missoula—home of the University of Montana. Take a look around at the peaks dominating the horizon, as this town lies at the convergence of five separate mountain ranges. It's your choice for lunch so enjoy your favorite foods as you soak in the scene in this fun college town. Tonight you will gather for a social hour and dinner at the hotel, as you raise a glass to congratulate each other on reaching your first well-earned rest day. Read More

DoubleTree Hotel Missoula - Edgewater

Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Missoula

Celebrate the milestone of making it to your first rest day location.

Lolo, MT to Missoula, MT - Approximately 37 mi | 60 km and 587 ft | 178 m

Day 11 Sept 1 - Rest Day in Missoula

Sept 1 - Rest Day in Missoula

Your first rest day has arrived and you’ve certainly earned it! Today is a day to relax, put up your feet, and enjoy. Benefit from a recovery stroll along the trail beside the Clark Fork River or explore the quaint downtown. This could also be the day to get some shopping done as Montana levies no state sales tax! Alternatively, catch up on some sleep, unwind, and simply get some correspondence and laundry done. Today is yours to explore, dine, and recover as you ... Your first rest day has arrived and you’ve certainly earned it! Today is a day to relax, put up your feet, and enjoy. Benefit from a recovery stroll along the trail beside the Clark Fork River or explore the quaint downtown. This could also be the day to get some shopping done as Montana levies no state sales tax! Alternatively, catch up on some sleep, unwind, and simply get some correspondence and laundry done. Today is yours to explore, dine, and recover as you please. Read More

DoubleTree Missoula - Edgewater

Rest day in Missoula

Enjoy some rest and relaxation or, if you are up for it, there is plenty to do from hiking to fly fishing to tubing the Clark Fork River.

Day 12 Sept 2 (Labor Day) - Missoula to Helena

Sept 2 (Labor Day) - Missoula to Helena

Saddle up! Today you'll take advantage of your well-rested legs to tackle another big ride as you continue across the fourth largest state in America. Follow the Blackfoot River out to the plains and enjoy the cool breeze as it wicks down the surrounding mountains and stirs the wildlife below. Keep a careful eye on the sky and passing fields to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle, mule deer, antelope, elk, or maybe even a grizzly bear. You'll climb to the top of Flesher... Saddle up! Today you'll take advantage of your well-rested legs to tackle another big ride as you continue across the fourth largest state in America. Follow the Blackfoot River out to the plains and enjoy the cool breeze as it wicks down the surrounding mountains and stirs the wildlife below. Keep a careful eye on the sky and passing fields to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle, mule deer, antelope, elk, or maybe even a grizzly bear. You'll climb to the top of Flesher Pass at 6,131 feet before enjoying a gradual descent into Montana's capital city for the evening. Read More

DoubleTree Helena - Downtown

Missoula, MT to Helena, MT - Approximately 116 mi | 187 km and 4,961 ft | 1,512 m

Day 13 Sept 3 - Helena to Three Forks

Sept 3 - Helena to Three Forks

Another picturesque day of riding awaits as you work your way south through Big Sky Country. You'll end up in Three Forks, near where the Jefferson, Gallatin, and Madison rivers converge to form the Missouri River. Sacajawea, who was interpreter and guide for Lewis and Clark, was kidnapped near here as a child and recognized it as her homeland when the explorers arrived here in 1805. Tonight, you'll stay at the historic Sacajawea Hotel.

Sacajawea Hotel

Stay at the charming Sacajawea Hotel

Originally built in 1910, the hotel was restored in 2009 by the Folkvord family, who runs it today.

Helena, MT to Three Forks, MT - Approximately 88 mi | 142 km and 3,491 ft | 1,064 m

Print full itinerary

Please view the full itinerary to see more days.

Day 1 Aug 21 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Aug 21 - Astoria to Pacific Ocean

Day 2 Aug 22 - Astoria to Portland

Aug 22 - Astoria to Portland

Day 3 Aug 23 - Portland to Hood River

Aug 23 - Portland to Hood River

Day 4 Aug 24 - Hood River to Condon

Aug 24 - Hood River to Condon

Day 5 Aug 25 - Condon to Hermiston

Aug 25 - Condon to Hermiston

Day 6 Aug 26 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Aug 26 - Hermiston to Walla Walla

Marcus Whitman or The Finch Hotel

Day 7 Aug 27 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Aug 27 - Walla Walla to Lewiston

Day 8 Aug 28 - Lewiston to Kamiah

Aug 28 - Lewiston to Kamiah

Clearwater 12 Motel

Day 9 Aug 29 - Kamiah to Lolo

Aug 29 - Kamiah to Lolo

Day 10 Aug 30 - Lolo to Missoula

Aug 30 - Lolo to Missoula

Day 11 Aug 31 - Rest Day in Missoula

Aug 31 - Rest Day in Missoula

Day 12 Sept 1 (Labor Day) - Missoula to Helena

Sept 1 (Labor Day) - Missoula to Helena

Day 13 Sept 2 - Helena to Three Forks

Sept 2 - Helena to Three Forks

Activity Information

Activity Level: Level 4

Terrain: Hilly to Mountainous

On our Cross Country Tour, the terrain is extremely varied, including rolling terrain, long gradual climbs and descents, as well as steep climbing and descending. Roads are primarily two-lane secondary highways with good shoulders but include some short stretches of interstate highways with wide shoulders, smaller local roads, and surface streets with little or no shoulder. Some road surfaces may be rough. Our Portland to Portland cross country bike tour is best suited for our Type 4 Riders, due to the extreme physical demands of the trip.

Daily Average

88 miles | 142 kilometers

3,791 miles | 6,100 kilometers

3,606 feet | 1,099 meters

155,078 feet | 47,265 meters

This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Because of the terrain and/or remoteness of the hotels and riding routes, there are few, if any, non-riding options available. If a non-rider wants to accompany a rider guest on this trip, they would need to spend many hours in the van and/or at the hotels on the trip. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:

• California Wine Country»
• Glacier National Park»
• Crater Lake & Oregon Cascades»
• Bryce & Zion»
• Prague to Vienna »

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift when you really need it. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from finding the nearest chocolate milkshake, laundromat, or massage therapist.

• Fully guided and supported with at least two guides and one van
• Daily route on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
• Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

Built on the site of the former Union Fish Cannery, the Cannery Pier Hotel is located 600 feet into the Columbia River. From this unique and enviable position, it offers guests unparalleled views of a real working river, as well as views out to Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and the impressive Astoria–Megler Bridge. Each room has a private balcony and a fireplace, hardwood floors, and luxurious amenities. Take advantage of the authentic Finnish sauna before embarking upon the first ride of your long cross country journey.  Please note that only the first, last, and rest day hotels are shown here. 

DoubleTree Hotel Missoula – Edgewater

The Doubletree Edgewater is located in the heart of the college town of Missoula, on the banks of the Clark Fork River. The campus of the University of Montana is only three blocks away and the restaurants and main attractions of downtown are within walking distance. You may decide to take advantage of the world-class fly fishing right out the door, or maybe just kick back and take in the stunning views of Mount Sentinel and watch the river flow past.

Hotel Alex Johnson

Enjoy the authentic Native American decor at this historic hotel in the heart of downtown Rapid City. The guest rooms have been recently renovated, although we understand some may still be haunted. Spend your rest day visiting Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, or the wild west town of Deadwood.

Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown

Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown is a contemporary hotel situated just a short stroll from the downtown Capital Square. It is housed in the landmark Mautz Paint Company building where modern meets historic with creatively crafted murals throughout the space that showcase the authentic style of the original architecture. The well-appointed guest rooms feature nostalgic touches with modern amenities. Enjoy the convenience of an onsite restaurant as well as being a short walk away from countless local gems!

Hilton Garden Inn Corning Downtown

The Hilton Garden Inn offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Enjoy the heated indoor pool and use the fitness center for a recovery session. It is located next door to the famous Corning Museum of Glass and across the river from the city’s downtown Gaffer District where you’ll find the historic Market Street filled with restaurants and boutiques.

Press Hotel

The Press Hotel is a boutique luxury hotel in Portland’s famed Old Port District and is part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, which features unique properties selected for their rich character and imaginative details. Constructed in 1923, the brick and stone building was the former home of the state’s largest newspaper, the Portland Press Herald. Many of the architectural details and artifacts have been preserved during its transformation into this stunning boutique hotel. Enjoy the array of artwork throughout the hotel and your beautifully appointed guest room with its oversized windows, marble-tiled bathrooms, luxury linens, vintage desks, and modern conveniences.

Bikes & Gear

Experiencing your cycling vacation of a lifetime is not complete without a world-class bike and the Trek Domane SL 7 Gen 4 is the best on the road. It raises the bar to deliver incredible endurance road bike comfort without sacrificing performance and features highly responsive disc brakes, road-smoothing IsoSpeed technology, and electronic shifting. This new bike is lighter than ever before, and carbon wheels are standard on every Domane SL 7 bike.

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

• Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
• Custom Cross Country Trek Travel Santini kit
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Cinch sack day bag to keep
• Garmin Edge Explore 2 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
• Bontrager saddle*
• Bontrager helmet*
• Choice of Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals or Shimano SPD mountain style pedals*
• *For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• Garmin Varia radar tail light
• A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator

Trip Inclusions

• 47 nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
• Daily breakfast, 42 lunches, and 37 dinners
• Six social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
• Trek Travel cycling jersey, water bottles, cinch sack day bag, and luggage tag
• Two or more experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
• Daily route support with both guides and our support van
• Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

• Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
• Post-ride refreshments
• Gu Energy Gels
• Electrolyte drink supplements
• Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events
• All gratuities for drivers, local experts, and hospitality staff
• All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
• A digital photo album of your trip
• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.
• Trip cancellation and travel protection are not included. We recommend adding travel protection to your trip. Go to our FAQs section for more information.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we suggest a tip for your guides between $2400-$2880 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or Venmo or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

• Routes : When planning this tour, we avoid interstates and busy roads as much as possible, however, due to the nature of this trip there are a few days where you will have stretches on the interstate and on busier than ideal roads.
• Cell Service: There are a few days where cell service is lacking on the route and at the hotel. Your guides will be equipped with walkie talkies and a satellite communication device to enable them to communicate and provide effective support even when cell service is lacking.
• Accommodations : You will stay in a blend of high-end hotels, resorts, rustic lodges, national chains, and roadside motels. The first and last nights of the trip and most rest days are spent in high-end, full-service hotels. Along the way, many hotels are national chains such as Best Western and Holiday Inn due to their consistent quality and service. We also pass through some areas where accommodations are limited and we stay in some basic roadside motels. Every effort has been made to secure the best lodging available, but in some rural parts of the country, our options are limited and may not meet the quality criteria of every guest.
• Alternate Hotels and Room Sharing: If the trip is near capacity, there are approximately five nights where the group will be split between two hotels. Guests will be placed in the alternate hotel based on booking order, starting with the last to book. In addition, some guests may have to share a room or bathroom once or twice during the trip, even if you book a single supplement.
• Dining: Most evenings, you will dine at the best restaurant available near the hotel—from simple, hearty dinners to decadent nouvelle cuisine. In an effort to provide an efficient meal and maximize recovery time, we sometimes opt for a buffet or have pizza, pasta or other fare delivered to a hotel conference room. We also strive to provide an early, hearty breakfast, but options and quality varies from town to town. As such, your guides will supplement breakfast at certain hotels.
• Energy Products: Trek Travel will have a range of energy products and electrolyte tablets on hand for whenever you need a boost. If you require a specific brand of energy product, we recommend bringing an adequate supply for your personal needs as there will be little opportunity to restock on this trip. For lunches, most days your guides set up “feed zones” at designated spots along the route. These are quick lunch stops providing sandwich fixings, light salads, fresh fruits, sweet and savory snacks, energy products, and beverages—designed to enable riders to maintain momentum. On occasion, you’ll dine at a perfectly situated cafe along the route.
• Training: Trek Travel provides our guests with a basic training plan, developed by Vision Quest Training , to help you prepare for this trip. Vision Quest also offers customized training plans specifically tailored to you – taking into account your equipment, terrain, goals, and fitness level. They offer a free consultation to help you determine whether the basic training plan or a customized version is right for you.

Before and After Your Trip

Portland, Oregon

We recommend spending a few days in the vibrant, bustling city of Portland, Oregon. An excellent public transit system makes it easy to get around the City of Roses (so named because its climate is very conducive to growing rose bushes). Portlanders are widely known for their enthusiasm for local food, microbrews, coffee, art, and bikes. The Willamette River flows through downtown and constitutes the boundary between east and west sections; Burnside Street divides north and south; and the north section is defined by the river to the west and Williams Avenue to the east. Locals use these sections to give directions, so it's good to be familiar with the general idea! Farm to table restaurants, food trucks, bike shops, fun and funky architecture, book stores (don't miss Powell's City of Books in the heart of downtown!), parks, and museums are abundant in this quintessential city of the Pacific Northwest. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel:

Where to Stay

Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Stay on trend at Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront, a reimagined hotel directly on the waterfront in downtown, surrounded by more than 60 breweries. This is our hotel of choice for the second night of our trip, and it comes with modern rooms, delicious dining choices, and the perfect location for enjoying the city. www.marriott.com

Hotel deLuxe

Part of the well-crafted Provenance Hotel group, Hotel deLuxe offers a desirable location in the Southwest District, close to the exclusive Pearl District and Nob Hill, and only a few blocks from the MAX Light Rail System. This luxurious property is centered around a cinema theme and features a beautiful collection of historic film stills that capture the magic of Hollywood from the the 1930s, '40s, and '50s. www.provenancehotels.com

Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

Nestled just south of downtown Portland on a pedestrian river walk, the RiverPlace Hotel is a luxurious retreat that offers access to both an invigorating urban buzz and an enchanting natural landscape. Relax in the communal Living Room, try a local brew at the daily hosted social hour, and enjoy dinner at the onsite restaurant. The list of amenities here is long and includes a yoga mat in your room, spa services available in your room, a workout room with a Peloton bike, a curated music playlist, and a $10 credit at the King Tide Fish & Shell restaurant. www.riverplacehotel.com

Portland, Maine

The city of Portland, Maine (for which Portland, Oregon was named) has a relaxed, small-town feel that makes it an ideal place to unwind after your ride across the country. Take a few extra days to explore the cobbled Old Port District, check out the working waterfront and Portland Museum of Art in the arts district, and visit some of the many historical sights in town. Take a trolley tour or a lighthouse tour, or visit the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, childhood home of the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. According to locals, Portland has more restaurants and bars per capita than any other city in the country outside of San Fransisco. Many of the more popular restaurants are chef-owned and highly renowned. Kick back and take in the sights and smells of the Atlantic as you relax at the conclusion of your epic trip. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:

The Press Hotel is a boutique luxury hotel in Portland’s famed Old Port District. It’s part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, which features unique and imaginative properties selected for their quality, bold originality, rich character, and uncommon details. The Press Hotel offers spa services, a workout room, valet parking, and a free airport shuttle. When you are ready to explore the city, you are just steps away from the Old Port’s historic cobblestone streets full of galleries, shops, cafes, day-spas, and many historic landmarks. www.thepresshotel.com

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

The Regency is also located in the Old Port District and offers a boutique experience in a property originally built as a home for the Maine National Guard in 1895. Each room retains some architectural elements from the original design of the home—alcoves, torrent windows, and decks. An on-site spa and fitness center, complimentary wireless internet, and valets to provide complimentary transportation to the airport make the Regency a convenient place to stay for your extra time in Portland. www.theregency.com

Hilton Garden Inn - Downtown Waterfront

This modern hotel is also located on the waterfront in Portland's Old Port District, just steps from the boutique shops, restaurants, and museums this area has to offer. It features an indoor lap pool, complimentary wireless internet, and airport shuttle. www.hilton.com

Packing and Weather

The weather across the country will be extremely varied. You can expect all conditions including rain, snow, fog, wind, sun, heat, and cold, in both humid and arid climates. Extreme weather conditions may exist in certain parts of the country. Your guides will monitor the safety of riding in such conditions and will delay or cancel rides if they deem the conditions to be too dangerous. Bring adequate layers and riding gear for riding in any and all conditions throughout our Cross Country bike tour. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.

Read our Cancellation Policy

Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Discover trip, we recommend $2400-$2880 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs

Similar Trips

England Coast to Coast Bike Tour

 Compare

Pyrenees Coast to Coast Bike Tour

Crater Lake and Oregon Cascades Bike Tour

Italy Coast to Coast Bike Tour

Classic Climbs: The Dolomites Bike Tour

Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Classic - Discover:

Single occupancy.

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

Cycling tours

No big bus windows. No phone screen. No maps, walls or guidebooks. Just your wheels, the wind and the open road. That’s how we roll.

From pedalling through peaceful villages in  Vietnam  and  Japan  to cruising down epic, ever-changing landscapes in  Jordan  and  Tanzania , our cycling tours allow you to really immerse yourself in a place and not just travel through it. Powered by nothing but your legs (and maybe a slice of biscotti and a couple of extra-strong cafés au lait), there’s a nice simplicity to cycling as well as plenty of adventures waiting for you off the saddle. Intrepid style cycling isn’t the Tour de France – you don’t get prizes for coming first and the lycra bodysuits are definitely optional – but we promise it’s a totally unique way to experience the world.

On most of our trips we use hardtail mountain bikes armed with front suspension. Depending on the country, we’ll use a mix of makes and models like Giant Talon and Trek X Caliber 5, but they’re pretty similar when it comes to form and function. Our bikes are serviced regularly by local experts who know their stuff, and any pesky broken chains or flat tyres can be fixed in a jiffy. You can usually bring your own bike, too (check our FAQs for the logistical info).

Riding a bike is good for you (even factoring in the odd gelato or Tuscan cellar door pitstop). But it’s also good for the environment. Like all our trips, our cycling tours are 100% carbon offset. Most of the transport is powered by the greenest energy of all: yours. We’ve been certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid, you’re traveling to improve the planet.

There’s something special about Intrepid travelers. You travel differently; you travel with purpose; you seek to leave a positive impact and give back to the people and places you visit. By traveling on an Intrepid cycling trip, you’ll directly support our  Intrepid Foundation cycling partner, World Bicycle Relief . Donations provide school children, health workers and farmers in rural low-income communities with durable bicycles, research and mechanics training.

We run risk assessments on all our cycling trips and our leaders are specially trained to run cycling adventures, so you can rest assured you’re well taken care of. Our leaders are also trained in basic first aid, and we’ve got a support vehicle that follows the group in case of injury, inclement weather, unexpected and hazardous road conditions, or if you’d like to give your legs a rest.

The beauty of small group travel means our groups are small enough to allow you to ride at your own pace, but big enough to connect with others and create a good social vibe. Our maximum group size is 12 people, which we’ve found is a great number to let you get to know your fellow cyclists and also benefit from your leader’s knowledge and experience.

We think the best folks to show you around the heart of a destination is someone who lives there. That's why we work exclusively with local cycling leaders, which means you’ll really get to know the places you’ll be visiting. Our leaders are not just cycling enthusiasts, they’re also your travel guru, teacher and enthusiastic purveyor of local experiences.

Our local leaders are all cycling junkies, but they go through some pretty rigorous training before being allowed behind the handlebars of an Intrepid cycling tour. Each leader has undergone on-road supervision and knows how to do safety checks, basic repairs and emergency first-aid. But they’re still regular Intrepid leaders, which means they know the best local bars, cafes and hidden spots (not to mention handling all the logistical stuff). You just focus on the ride.  

One of my favorite trips is  Cycle Tuscany . We ride from the Apuan Alps down to the coast, followed by a dip in the Mediterranean and a picnic of fresh focaccia and tomatoes. We continue through rural villages, protected wildlife parks and sandy beaches all the way to the medieval jewel of the walled city of Lucca – and that's just in one day. Top tip for an Intrepid cycling trip: bring patience, an open heart and an open mind. Oh, and trust your legs!

Filter by rating

Cycle Provence

Cycle the Danube

Cycle the Balkans

What’s the range of cycling tours available?

Our cycling tours span the gamut of two-wheeled challenges: from a leisurely ride through Vietnam to cycling across landscapes of Cuba. Some of these trips include cycling as just one of a number of active adventures, others are more cycling focussed (ie. You’ll be riding almost every day).

Should I bring my own bike on a cycling trip?

To take the hassle out of preparing for your trip, we've included bike hire on all our dedicated cycling tours. Alternatively, you can bring your trusty bike from home. If you're bringing your own bike, make sure you let us know when booking so we can make sure your bike is appropriate for that particular tour. As always, check your Essential Trip Information. 

Bringing your own bike  – If you are a dedicated cyclist or just want to take your bike on a holiday, you can usually bring it along for the ride. You’ll need to box it up for transport on the plane.

The easiest way to do this is to go to your local bike shop and ask if they will do it for you (a fee may apply). They often have boxes on hand from old stock and have the tools to remove the pedals and secure your handlebars.

Airline fees will also apply, so check with your airline about costs. It's worth remembering not all trips will be able to accommodate your own bike, so let us know what you're planning at the time of booking. 

Hiring a bike  – The bikes we use are from proven brands, very well maintained, typically less than 3 years old (most are newer) and specifically chosen to suit the terrain you'll be cycling on the trip. They come in a full range of sizes from extra small to extra large and usually have front suspension, flat bars, and 27 gears.

The only thing you need to do is advise us of your height at the time of booking. We’ll handle the rest. If you'd like, you can always bring your own saddle (seat) or gel over-cover for comfort. If you want to use cleats, bring your pedals and shoes, too. 

How do I fly with my bike?

All airlines will have their own rules and fees when transporting bikes. Make sure you contact the airline (preferably) before you pay for your flights to see what charges and requirements they have.

Before you depart, you must box your bike for transport. See our section ‘taking your own bike vs. hiring one’ for more information.

What do I have to carry while I ride?

On all of our cycling tours your accommodation is pre-booked and your luggage is transferred from one point to the next. All you have to carry is water, any snacks or gadgets you may want and a few layers to keep you dry and warm. A small, lightweight backpack may come in handy.

Do I need to pack anything special?

Helmets are compulsory on our cycling tours, so you can either bring your own or (to save on luggage space) buy one at a local bike shop once you arrive in-country. We also recommend you bring your own water bottle/hydration pack and closed shoes. You may also wish to bring Cycling shorts and (if you ride regularly at home) your own saddle and pedals. Many of our clients who do not ride regularly find a gel seat cover helpful in making the ride more comfortable. For more info on packing, check out the What to Pack section of your Essential Trip Information.

How fit do I need to be to do a cycling tour?

All you need to enjoy our cycling trips is the ability to ride a bicycle and a passion for seeing a destination on two wheels. That’s about it.

While there are occasionally longer days on some itineraries, the vast majority of our cycling days are between 19-37 miles and are done at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery or just take a break. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness will get by with no trouble. Be sure to check the physical rating and description in the Essential Trip Information to make sure the trip suits your fitness level and skills.

Our cycling trips are done predominantly on sealed roads (with the odd unsealed section), but none of the trips require any specialist cycling skills. We’ve also researched extra riding routes in each of the destinations we visit, so if you want to stretch your legs a bit more, you can.

My partner is fitter than me, should I still book this trip?

To make our trips more accessible for cyclists of varying fitness levels and skills, most of our trips will have a support vehicle that follows the group. You can jump into the support vehicle any time you feel like taking a short (or long) break from riding. Many of our cycling trips also include the option to use an e-bike, an electric motor-assisted bike that’ll get you up any hill or allow you to zip along the flats with minimum effort.

What sort of safety precautions do you take?

We run risk assessments on each and every one of our cycling trips to make sure they’re up to scratch and your cycling leaders have personally ridden every inch of the itinerary in advance. We’ve assessed the road conditions, the level of traffic and any potential blackspots.

Our leaders are trained in cycling health and safety, as well as basic first aid, and we usually have a vehicle following us if an evacuation ever becomes necessary. We’ve also made sure our cycling tours depart during the milder months when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold, so the ride should be as pleasant (and safe) as possible. 

Do I need special insurance for a cycling trip?

Not as a rule. Any injuries you might suffer while riding should be covered by the more reputable comprehensive policies (we can recommend some good brands if you’re unsure of what to get). It’s always important to double-check the fine print before departing on your trip and be aware that, like all Intrepid trips, travel insurance is compulsory on our cycling itineraries.

Turkey’s most underrated experience: mountain biking in Cappadocia

Keep the wheels turning: How bicycles are empowering rural communities around the world

What to expect on a cycling trip in Southern Thailand

All your questions answered: 10 things to know about Intrepid’s cycling trips

5 reasons you should do a Sonoma bike tour

7 great things to do in Arizona

Breaking down the myth of ‘Wellness Travel’

5 of the best things to do in Northumberland National Park

• Quicklinks Join / Renew Membership Results & Rankings Category Upgrades Rule Book & Policies Resources Search Events Find A Club Plan An Event Officials Coaches USA Cycling Foundation

How To Watch the 2024 UCI Road World Championships

Watch Team USA take on the UCI Road World Championships on September 21-29

USA Cycling announced the athletes representing the United States at the 2024 UCI Road and Para-Cycling Road World Championships that will take place in Zurich, Switzerland on September 21-29. 

You can watch the racing live on FloBikes . You can also follow the live timing and on @USACycling and @uci_cycling.  

All times Eastern

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. - Para-Cycling Mixed Handbike

6-8:45 a.m. - Women Elite Individual Time Trial


8:45 a.m.-Noon - Men Elite Individual Time Trial

3:15-6 a.m. - Men Junior Individual Time Trial


8:45 a.m.-Noon - Men Under 23 Individual Time Trial

2:30-5 a.m. - Women Junior Individual Time Trial

8 a.m.-Noon - Team Time Trial Mixed Relay

4-6:30 a.m. - Women Junior Road Race


8:15-11:45 a.m. - Men Junior Road Race

6:45-11:15 a.m. - Men Under 23 Road Race

6:45-11:15 a.m. - Women Elite Road Race

4:30-11:30 a.m. - Men Elite Road Race

The full schedule can be found here .

Who To Watch

Matteo Jorgenson  (Boise, Idaho; Visma - Lease A Bike) - Road Race 

Brandon McNulty (Phoenix, Ariz.; Team UAE) - Road Race, Time Trial

Neilson Powless  (Roseville, Calif.; EF Education-EasyPost) - Road Race

Riley Sheehan  (Boulder, Colo.; Israel – Premier Tech) - Road Race

Magnus Sheffield (Pittsford, N.Y.; Ineos Grenadiers) - Road Race, Time Trial

Quinn Simmons  (Durango, Colo.; Lidl-Trek) - Road Race

Kevin Vermaerke  (Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.; Team dsm-firmenich PostNL) - Road Race

Larry Warbasse (Traverse City, Mich.; Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale Team) - Road Race

Chloe Dygert (Brownsburg, Ind.; CANYON//SRAM Racing) - Road Race, Time Trial

Ruth Edwards  (Nederland, Colo.; Human Powered Health Cycling) - Road Race, Time Trial

Emily Ehrlich (Greenville, S.C.; Team Twenty24) - Road Race, Time Trial

Kristen Faulkner  (Homer, Alaska; EF-Oatly-Cannondale) - Road Race

Heidi Franz (Seattle, Wash.; Lifeplus - Wahoo) - Road Race

Amber Neben (Irvine, Calif.) - Time Trial

Lauren Stephens  (Dallas; Cynisca Cycling) - Road Race

AJ August  (Pittsford, N.Y.; Ineos Grenadiers) - Road Race, Time Trial 

Gavin Hlady (Riverside, Calif.; Aevolo Cycling Team) - Road Race

Cole Kessler  (Newbury Park, Calif.; Lidl-Trek) - Road Race

Artem Shmidt  (Cumming, Ga.; Hagens Berman Jayco) - Road Race, Time Trial

Colby Simmons  (Durango, Colo.; Visma – Leas A Bike Developemnt) - Road Race

Gray Barnett  (Greenville, S.C.; EF Education-ONTO) - Road Race 

Ashlin Barry  (Toronto, Ont.; EF Education-ONTO) - Road Race, Time Trial

Peyton Burckel (Lancombe, La.; EF Education-ONTO) - Road Race 

Braden Reitz  (Carmel, Ind.; DECATHLON AG2R LA MONDIALE NEWGEN) - Road Race 

Noah Streif  (Boise, Idaho; EF Education-ONTO) - Road Race

Lidia Cusack (Chevy Chase, Md.; dcdevo Racing Academy) - Road Race, Time Trial 

Helena Jones  (Boulder, Colo.; Team Twenty24) - Road Race, Time Trial 

Vida Lopez de San Roman (Sebastopol, Calif.; Bear National Team) - Road Race 

Alyssa Sarkisov  (North Potomic, Md.; dcdevo Racing Academy) - Road Race

This Article Updated September 10, 2024 @ 12:00 AM

For more information contact: [email protected]

Stephens and Wertz Win Elite Titles at the 2024 USA Cycling Gravel National Championships