The best cycling routes in the United States of America

Cycle the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, a moderate 11.4-mile route through ancient redwood groves in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Cycle the Natural Bridges National Monument Drive, a 9.4-mile moderate loop offering stunning views of three natural bridges and desert land

Explore the heart of Yosemite National Park on the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, an easy touring cycling route that offers incredible views of iconic granite formations and waterfalls. This gentle ride covers 13.0 miles (20.9 km) with only 366 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for most riders and typically completed in about 1 hour and 12 minutes. You will cycle through picturesque meadows and alongside the Merced River, with expansive vistas of landmarks like El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.

While the trail is generally accessible year-round, be aware that winter conditions can bring snow and ice, and spring may cause localized flooding. The route is mostly flat, but a section leading to Mirror Lake has a gradual incline, so a bike with gears is helpful for a smoother experience. Signage can be infrequent in some areas, so it is a good idea to carry a map to help with navigation during your ride.

This route provides a unique opportunity to get up-close views of Yosemite's famous natural wonders, including the towering El Capitan and the majestic Yosemite Falls. You can stop at various points, such as the Swinging Bridge, for fantastic photo opportunities. The trail allows you to immerse yourself in the Valley's stunning scenery and appreciate its scale and beauty from a different perspective.

Prepare for a challenging touring bicycle ride on Rim Rock Drive, a difficult 26.3 miles (42.3 km) route that takes about 3 hours to complete. You will gain 3038 feet (926 metres) as you cycle through the Colorado National Monument. The route offers expansive views of redrock canyons and dramatic sandstone formations, often described as otherworldly landscapes. As you pedal, you will pass pinyon pine and juniper trees, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as golden eagles or desert bighorn sheep. Make sure to pause at viewpoints like Red Canyon Overlook to fully appreciate the panoramic scenery.

This difficult touring bicycle route is best suited for experienced cyclists who are comfortable with significant climbing. The road itself is narrow in many sections, often lacking a shoulder and featuring steep drop-offs, so exercise caution when sharing the road with vehicles. You will also navigate through three tunnels along the way, where it is mandatory to have lights on your bicycle for safety. Consider starting early in the day to avoid peak traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.

Rim Rock Drive is renowned for its dramatic geology, showcasing the unique redrock canyons and sandstone formations that define the Colorado National Monument. This area is often nicknamed the “Tour of the Moon” due to its distinctive, almost lunar-like terrain. Beyond the geological wonders, the route also offers a chance to observe the high desert ecosystem, home to various plant species and wildlife. The sheer scale of the landscape and the engineering marvel of the road itself make this a truly memorable cycling experience in the region.

Prepare for a challenging touring bicycle ride on the Colorado National Monument loop, a difficult route spanning 32.8 miles (52.8 km). You will conquer a significant 3533 feet (1077 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 46 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you'll be immersed in panoramic desert vistas, winding past towering red rock monoliths and through sheer-walled canyons, with numerous opportunities to pause at viewpoints like Red Canyon Overlook.

This demanding ride requires good to very good fitness due to its steep climbs and descents. Plan your visit for spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures, which can make the journey even tougher. Remember to bring front and rear lights for the dark tunnels you'll encounter along Rim Rock Drive, and be aware that some sections of the road are narrow with no shoulder. Cyclists should also be prepared for an entrance fee to access the monument.

Often referred to as the “Tour of the Moon,” this route offers a unique way to experience the monument's dramatic landscapes near Grand Junction. The trail showcases distinctive stone pillars and red rock plateaus, sculpted over millions of years. It's a journey through geological time, providing a memorable perspective on the region's natural beauty and its ancient, rugged terrain.

Cycle the difficult 23.8-mile San Francisco Bay Trail and Marin Headlands Loop for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Pacific Ocea

Cycle the Sausalito, Tiburon, Paradise Cay Loop, a moderate 24.8-mile route with 1302 feet of gain, offering stunning Bay Area views.

Cycle the Custis, W&OD, and Mount Vernon Trail Loop, a 20.6-mile moderate route with D.C. views and plane spotting at Gravelly Point.

If you're looking for a serious touring bicycle challenge, the Whitney Portal Road delivers. This difficult 12.2 miles (19.7 km) route climbs a staggering 4670 feet (1423 metres), taking about 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll experience a dramatic shift in scenery, starting with the distinctive rock formations of the Alabama Hills. The climb then opens up to expansive panoramic views of the Owens Valley, with the towering granite cliffs leading to Mt. Whitney's summit providing a constant backdrop. It's a demanding ride, but the visual rewards are immense.

Before you head out, know that the Whitney Portal Road is generally well-maintained, but expect some bumpy sections on the descent due to expansion joints in the upper parts. For your safety, large trucks, trailers, buses, and RVs are now prohibited on the road. At the Whitney Portal summit, you'll find a campground, a store, and a restaurant, which are convenient amenities after such a strenuous climb. Plan your visit to take advantage of these facilities.

This route is consistently ranked among the toughest bike climbs in the U.S., making it a notable destination for cyclists seeking a significant test of endurance. The journey offers a unique perspective of the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, showcasing the raw beauty of the Inyo National Forest. It's more than just a climb; it's an opportunity to experience one of the region's most iconic landscapes from your bike.