11 Beautiful Cycling Destinations In The USA
For those who like to spend their time outside, cycling is one of the best ways you can get the exercises as well as explore the great outdoors. So, when you combine cycling and travelling you are creating one of the most magical experiences. When you cycle you will be able to explore parts that you can’t reach by foot or car. It is also one of the best ways to improve your physical and mental health. For most enthusiasts, it is not even about how green their transportation is, it is all about experiencing the breathtaking surroundings. If you are one of those people, here are some of the most beautiful cycling destinations that you can find in the USA.
Slickrock Trail, Utah
For those who are looking for something more adventurous, one of the best trails that you can choose to go to is the Slickrock trail in Utah. Because of its adrenaline levels, it is often referred to as the mountain biking Mecca. Because it is such a popular location, it is found on almost every bucket list of an advanced rider. It is both technically and physically challenging and that is why you should be an advanced cyclist if you are going to take on this trail. What makes it even more special is that the trail will take you along breathtaking sand dunes to dry seabed which will leave you with the most breathtaking views of Utah’s rocky hills. The trail is about 20 kilometres long.
Trail 401, Colorado
If you are looking for a trail that will leave you breathless literally and physically, Trail 401 is the way to go. It not only has some of the most majestic scenery that Colorado has to offer but there will also be no moments where you aren’t surrounded by astonishing views. It starts at Schofield and from there you will have to cling to the evergreen forests and meadows where the trail is located. On your ride, you will be able to experience a mesmerizing backdrop of the Red Mountains. One of the best times that you can choose to visit this amazing trail is during summer when everything comes alive.
Centennial Trail, South Dakota
If you are looking for life-changing American scenery, the Centennial trail is the place to be at. It is about 178 kilometres long and it will make you feel like you’ve been sent all the way back to the old west. But the thing that makes this trail so special is that you will be able to enjoy beautiful lakes. Something that you should keep in mind is that all the little different trails will vary in difficulty. But you will definitely be battling some steep inclines and rocketing downhill so be prepared.
Gauley Headwaters Trail, West Virginia
The Gauley Headwaters is a 60km looping track that goes through the Allegheny Mountains and the magical forests of Monongahela. This track is known as the best superb track you can find around the Appalachian range. It has everything an experienced mountain biker would want including thick luscious forests to navigate through some difficult slopes which lead you to the legendary downhill path. Because it is an advanced trail, everyone going there needs to have proper good-quality mountain bikes as well as all the following equipment that will make you as safe as you can be.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi
For those cyclists that are looking for having a more laid-back cycling adventure that lasts longer, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a destination that you should visit. It has an easier and more horizontal territory that you can cycle on. This trail is approximately 714 kilometres long and it is filled with scenic windy roads that take you through amazing woodland sections.
A good part of the people who visit here choose to go here because they like to absorb the awning of 10,000 years of history. This life-changing trail is the best opportunity for less advanced cyclists to get a taste of trails that are more advanced while not putting themselves or anyone around them in danger.
Buffalo Creek, Colorado
If you are travelling with a group that is made out of combinations of cyclists’ levels, Buffalo Creek is the way to go. This trial will take you a couple of hours to complete and you will be challenged by rocky trails and steep inclines while going through a luscious forest.
Soquel Demonstration Forest, California
For those who are looking to have a more peaceful and crowd less experience, Soquel Demonstration Forest is the best one to choose. It is set deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the trails wind down the fastest tracks and have advanced downhill sections that have quite a few tight turns. These magical woodland trails provide about 32 kilometres and challenging and exhilarating trails in the whole area.
Big Boulder Ride, California
Another trail that is an off-road ride is the Big Boulder ride. It will offer you a highly technical and challenging 35 kilometre loop. The trail is a 130-year-old mining road that starts in Downieville that is a mining town hidden in the luscious Tahoe National Forest.
San Juan Islands, Washington
San Juan Islands are one of the most popular cycling destinations in the USA. As it is considered to be one of the most breathtaking tropical islands it offers multiple trials where any type of cyclist can enjoy and feel engaged. This is one of the few places where you will be able to cycle while being able to enjoy the view of marine wildlife along with magical leafy shorelines. The trails are approximately 48 kilometres long.
Big Sur Highway 1, California
As you can see, California is filled with breathtaking trails on which you can cycle, but one of the most popular ones is Highway 1. It stretches all the way through the Big Sur. You will be able to cycle150 kilometres along the Pacific coastline while experiencing some of the most stunning ocean panoramas followed by the calming sounds of waves crashing on the shore. On your ride, you will be able to make your way down the Redwoods and pass by cute little beach towns followed by some pretty tough hills.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most magical routes you will find in the whole Mississippi surroundings. It is filled with diverse wildlife, incredible foliage as well as expansive mountain ranges. This road is around 755 kilometres and it is one of the safest routes a cycle can take. Something that you have to keep in mind is that it is quite a popular location so it can get pretty crowded if you go during the peak seasons. On top of that, when you are finished with your cycling adventure you can make a stop at one of the fulvous breweries for a filling lunch and some beers.
No matter which one you end up visiting, you can’t make a mistake as they are all amazing trails. One thing that you need to keep an eye out for is the difficulty of the trails, if you are a beginner, you shouldn’t go on advanced trails as you can get hurt but also hurt other people around you.