Top 10 Cycling Routes in the U.S.

The open road, wind in your hair, landscapes rolling past - there’s nothing better than a cycling adventure. 

And where better to do so than in the United States? From iconic coastal paths to hidden mountain trails, America offers an eclectic range of cycling experiences for all levels and ages.

Well-trodden trails that see thousands of bikes traversing them each day, as well as hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the wider cycling community.

At buycycle, we set out to uncover these, using search data to reveal the most well-known and the best-kept secrets in American cycle trails. 

Read on to discover which are the most popular paths and the under-the-radar routes in the U.S!

Most Popular Cycling Routes in the U.S.

Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia

The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile, multi-purpose rail trail located in southwest Virginia. It journeys between Abingdon and Whitetop, close to the North Carolina state line, and traverses through National Forest and over the Appalachian Trail. Of the routes in the study, it had the highest search volume amongst Americans as well as globally.

However, the route is currently only open between Abingdon and Damascus, with 18 miles of the trail having been recently decimated by Hurricane Helene. Many of the trestles between Damascus and Whitetop have been destroyed or washed away, but they’re currently looking to rebuild this.

Route tip: There is little signal on the Virginia Creeper Trail, so download your map in advance, although some stops have Wi-Fi available.

The Colorado Trail, Colorado

The second most popular cycle route is Colorado’s 567-mile trail between Denver and Durango, the aptly named The Colorado Trail. Most of the route is above 10,000 feet, with the highest point being 13,271 feet, meaning that it offers spectacular scenery in the Colorado Rockies. It traverses eight mountain ranges, six National Forests, and six wilderness areas - a great route for any cycling enthusiast!

Route tip: Bring extra socks - The Colorado Trail is often dusty!

Katy Trail, Missouri

America's longest continuous recreational rail trail takes third place. The Katy Trail is a 239-mile trail that stretches across most of Missouri, and much of it runs along the Missouri River. Cyclists will enjoy pedaling under river bluffs with leafy canopies and journeying through forests and fields. The Katy Trail is open year round to the public, from sunrise to sunset.

Route tip: Make sure you have enough water because there are a few stretches where water isn't available for several miles.

Hidden Gem Cycling Routes in the U.S.

Central Lakes State Trail, Minnesota

With the lowest search volume, The Central Lakes Trail is a 55-mile trail that runs along a former Burlington Northern Railroad line through the heart of Minnesota, journeying from Osakis to Fergus Falls. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy traversing through a mixture of woodland, grassland, lakes, and farm country - a true hidden gem!

Route tip: Visit in spring when the route becomes a haven for wildflowers and wildlife, making for an even more beautiful ride!

Down East Sunrise Trail, Maine

Another hidden gem is the Down East Sunrise Trail in southern Maine, an 87-mile trail that passes through woods, marshlands, and coastal villages. The gravel path crosses twenty-eight bridges and rides along tree-lined streams and salmon rivers. You’ll see wildlife along the route, including moose, beavers, eagles, and wild turkeys.

Route tip: Much of the route has an uneven, rocky surface, so prepare yourself! 

Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail, Illinois

The Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail is a 21-mile trail in southwestern Illinois that runs alongside limestone bluffs and the Mississippi River. The scenic pathway, which follows much of the Alton-Grafton section of the Illinois Terminal Railroad, offers woods, marinas, ferry landings, and historic buildings.

Route tip: Use a mountain bike if possible, as some of the trail has debris, rocks, and cracks in the pavement.

Methodology

We compiled a list of 75 cycling routes around the USA, using credible sources such as Strava, Momentum Mag, Triathlete, and Komoot. We then analysed the average monthly search volume for each of these, both in the United States as well as globally.

Routes that allow motorized transport were omitted from the study to ensure that searches were primarily related to cycling or other health-focused activities.