18 Best Bike Trails in the United States

In Search of the Best Bike Trails in the US

Whenever I’m planning a visit to a new destination, my research always includes looking for nearby bike paths and rail trails. I find bike paths provide a unique, slow travel way of experiencing an area. Many trails wander through conservations area with wildlife and natural beauty. Often, the history of the area is revealed by gliding over old rail beds and bridges. Seeing the local sights without the hassle of traffic or parking is also a benefit. I have many long-loved bike trails, some that I share here. I also am thankful for my collaborators who unveil their own cherished bike trails. As you travel through the United States, check out some of these amazing bike trails throughout the country.

Gear for the Best Bike Trails in the US

Comfortable and functional biking gear will make your rides on these great bike paths more enjoyable. Take a look at the gear I use on biking trips.

Bike Apparel

• Bike gloves – Cushioning your hands from bike vibrations makes for a more comfortable ride. Look for gloves with gel cushions and leather palms for good grip.
• Bike shorts – Padded bike shorts might be my favorite bike gear item. They prevent chafing and cushion your tush enough to enjoy a nice long ride. Look for high-quality chamois fabric. Light-reflection elements are great for safety.
• Bike helmet – Bike helmets don’t last forever. For safety, replace your helmet every five years. So if you still have your 20-year-old brain bucket, it’s time to get a new one. A safe ride depends on an updated helmet. Look for a well-vented helmet to keep you cool.

Bike Gear

• Handlebar bag– Tuck a snack, a map, your phone, and other go-to items in your handlebar bag for instant access. I like a handlebar bag with a transparent sleeve for a smartphone or map. And a strap that turns it into a smart-looking shoulder bag for exploring off the bike is key.
• Cycling computer – It’s fun to know how fast you are going and how long your ride is. A simple bike computer will tell you this and more. There are also computers with a GPS and other bells and whistles. However, you will pay a lot more for them. They are great for elite rides but may be overkill for a bike path.
• Bike lights – There is nothing like a sunset bike ride on a bike trail. However, after the sun goes down, you’ll need lights to find your way back. I use quick-release lights that I only put on if I’m going to travel at night. Rechargeable lights make sense too.
• Bike Tools – A bike multi-tool slipped into your handlebar bag saves headaches out on the trail. Many small bike repairs or adjustments are a breeze with this multi-tool. You will be surprised how many bike problems you can fix on the trail with the right tools.
• Bike Pump – It always seems that someone in a biking group needs to blow up a tire. Come to the rescue with this super lightweight pump that attaches easily to your bike.
• Water bottle – An insulated bike water bottle provides refreshing chilled liquid throughout the ride. I put iced tea and ice cubes in mine for a frosty drink on a hot day. It really keeps it cold.

Best Bike Trails in the US – East

Island Line Rail Trail – Burlington, Vermont

by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

If you love biking beside a beautiful lake, then the bike path in Burlington, Vermont is for you. Called the Island Line Rail Trail, it runs 13.4 miles from Oakledge Park in Burlington to South Hero in the Champlain Islands. The paved bike trail traces the shore of Lake Champlain offering excellent views of the Adirondack Mountain peaks across the lake.

The bike path travels through Burlington’s gorgeous Waterfront Park. The best sunsets in the Northeast are seen here. Bike rentals are available on the trail downtown at Local Motion. Continuing north, the bikers will enjoy stops at Burlington’s fantastic beaches at North Beach and Leddy Park. The shaded trail passes natural areas and city parks until it reaches the Winooski River where it empties into Lake Champlain. The Winooski River Trail Bridge allows bikers to cross the river with amazing views of Lake Champlain on one side and the Winooski River delta brimming with wildlife on the other.

The most unique feature making the Island Line Rail Trail one of the best bike trails in the US is the Colchester Causeway. Following an old rail bed, this narrow gravel bike path runs directly across the lake to the Champlain Islands. Views of islands and the major peaks of the Green Mountains abound. A gap in the Causeway allows boat traffic through. In the summer, a bike ferry boat transports bikers across the “Cut” to continue on for a magical bike trip on South Hero Island.

-> Related Post: Outdoor Pocket Adventures near Burlington, VT

Minuteman Bikeway – Lexington, Massachusetts

by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

In a region known for abundant bike paths and green space, the Minuteman Bikeway stands out for its beautifully smooth and well-paved riding, flat and easy terrain, and abundance of historical and natural sights to see as you ride. The path comprises 10 miles of protected bikeways between the Massachusetts urban areas of Bedford and Alewife (Cambridge). The bikeway passes through many of the most significant sites of the early American Revolution. You will also bike by quaint towns, grassy meadows, nature trails, and bodies of water.

As you ride, there are several “junction”-style areas where you can grab a bite to eat or a coffee. The bikeway is mercifully shaded, therefore it is perfect for rides on warmer days. As you ride along, keep an eye out for great places to pull over for a photo or a sip of water. Spy Pond, Arlington’s Great Meadows, Cooke’s Hollow, and Old Schwamb Mill, the oldest still-operating mill in the U.S. are landmarks. Stop in the town of Lexington, where the Battle of Lexington began the American Revolution on April 19th, 1775. There are a variety of historic sites to see here, including period taverns and houses, the Lexington Historic Common and statue of the Lexington Minuteman, and the Old Burying Ground cemetery.

You can turn around at any point. The path is super customizable depending on what length of ride you’re seeking. The Minuteman Bikeway is the perfect weekend activity for families, biking fans, or even those who don’t bike much, It’s a great way to opt outdoors for some nature and history.

Hudson River Greenway – New York City

by Rachel and Dana of Traveling Found Love

Experience New York City by bike on the Hudson River Greenway on the west side of Manhattan. It offers a two-lane path for bikers, runners, and walkers. For 12.9 miles, you will get magnificent views of Manhattan’s skyline and the beautiful Hudson River.

Hudson River Greenway is one of the heaviest used bike trails in the USA. Riding on a mainly flat path next to the Hudson River, you will pass several Manhattan highlights. 

For the first half, get ready to see iconic bridges and ride through lush parks where you can admire cherry trees in the spring or enjoy a BBQ in the summer. The second part of the bike path is more densely populated. On your ride, you will find world-class restaurants, the historic Freedom Tower, and the 9/11 Memorial. At your final point, Battery Park, don’t forget to soak in the views of the Statue of Liberty.

To get on the bike path, you can simply choose from more than 70 access points at Manhattan’s west side between Dyckman Street in the north and Battery Park in the south.

If you can’t get enough of biking in the world’s most famous city, simply continue riding on the Manhattan Waterfront Green Loop, a 31-mile bike path bringing riders around the outskirts of Manhattan.

Mount Vernon Trail – Washington, DC

by Jennifer of DC Family Travel

The Mount Vernon Trail is located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway from Washington, DC to Mount Vernon, Virginia. It is 18 miles long, paved, and connects to other regional biking trails such as Four Mile Run and the Potomac Heritage Trail. It is a beautiful trail that runs along the Potomac River, Reagan National Airport, and George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. 

Cyclists will find a variety of views, rivers, national parks, the DC skyline, and monuments. The majority of the bike trail is paved, but a little bit is also on a very nice boardwalk near the wetlands of the Potomac. There are many places to park for the trail including Theodore Roosevelt Island National Park in the middle of the Potomac or on the southern end, Mount Vernon. There are other free parking lots along the way including Gravelly Point and Belle Haven Park. 

The Mount Vernon trail is multi-use for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. It is open 6 AM to 10 PM. There are portable restrooms at most of the parking lots. If you are visiting DC with kids, make sure to check out the best DC Playgrounds.

C&O Canal Towpath – Georgetown, DC to Cumberland, Maryland

By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Stretching from Washington DC to Cumberland, Maryland, the 184.5-mile C&O Canal is the biker’s dream. The C&O towpath begins in Georgetown, a historic neighborhood located in Washington, DC, at Mile Marker 0. The Appalachian Trail crosses the C&O Canal towpath at Harpers Ferry. The town is also the site of a National Historic Park.

Biking the towpath is perfect for first-timers as the path is flat, not at all hilly. Towpath rules include a 15 mph maximum speed limit on the towpath, ride single file, and yield right of way to all pedestrians, horses, and mules. Helmets are required. Due to the rocky and gravel paths, hybrid and mountain bikes are the best choices of transport.

Many bikers favor the towpath for a multi-day vacation. Local businesses offer food, beds, and even bike repair. There are scores of small towns near the towpath where a biker can book an Airbnb. Favorite stopovers include Point of Rocks, Harper Ferry, Shepherdstown, and Williamsport.

A biking vacation can continue by linking the C&O Canal towpath to the Great Allegheny Passage. This bike trip from Georgetown to Pittsburgh is a 335-mile ride. A fun “reverse” route is to start in Cumberland, MD, and ride to the end in Georgetown. The vacation could end with a historical tour of the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the White House. The celebration could feature dinner at the elegant Fiola Mare. There are nearby budget hotels in Foggy Bottom, such as the Hive Hotel.

Best Bike Trails in the US – South

Tulsa River Parks Trail – Tulsa, Oklahoma

by Ashlee of The Happiness Function

Tulsa, Oklahoma, has one of the best bike paths in the U.S. Located along the Arkansas River, Tulsa River Parks offers 26-miles of paved trail. This trail is a great place to recreate outdoors in the city. It is free to use, and with over 26-miles of trail, there are multiple access points and parking areas to choose from to begin your bike ride. The bike path runs along the east and west banks.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, has relatively mild weather, and it rarely snows, so this trail is accessible to bike most of the year. The path has lights for evening bike rides too!

Visitors can access more of Tulsa’s famous attractions from the bike path, including the historic Route 66 route, Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, and Gathering Place. The Tulsa River Parks trail and bike path intersect the historic Route 66 route near 11^th street. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness area has over 300 acres of undeveloped land and 25 miles of dirt trails to hike or bike. Gathering Place is Tulsa’s prized green space park which was most recently awarded as 2021’s Best City Park in the U.S. by USA Today!

Next time you’re in Oklahoma, come visit Tulsa River Parks bike path! 

Boca Grande Rails to Trail Bike Path – Boca Grande, Florida

by Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

One of the best bike paths in the United States has to be the Boca Grande Bike Path on Gasparilla Island on Florida’s southwest coast. This rail-to-trail path was the first of its kind in Florida. It was converted from the old railroad right of way mainly for bicycles but is also used by walkers and runners.

There is no charge to use the paved path which runs nearly the length of this 6-mile barrier island. However, it costs $6 to cross the Boca Grande Causeway. On Gasparilla Island, the path begins just south of the causeway and runs through downtown. It passes by the Gasparilla Lighthouse and the historic Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway Depot.

The path ends at Gasparilla Island State Park where you’ll find the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum. There’s a small charge to enter the state park which also gives admission to the museum. The section through the downtown area features some great casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and shopping. Along the way, there is also beach access to pristine white sand beaches and beautiful overlooks of Gasparilla Sound. For any cycling enthusiast, this beautiful well-maintained bike trail should be on your bucket list of things to do in southwest Florida. Besides your bike, all you’ll need is water and sunscreen. And remember, gopher tortoises have the right of way!

Hilton Head Island Bike Trails – Hilton Head, South Carolina

by Erin of Sand, Sun and Messy Buns

Hilton Head is one of the most bike-friendly beach destinations in the South. Although the family-friendly island is rather small, it’s covered in miles of trails. There are 6 miles of dedicated bike lanes and 117 miles of shared-use trails. Hilton Head is one of only 21 communities in the United States awarded the Gold Level Bicycle Community Award from the League of American Bicyclists. 

The Fish Haul Road portion of the trail will take cyclists past Historic Michelville Freedom Park, which is a beautiful maritime forest. The area of Michelville was a settlement where enslaved men and women planted roots after the Civil War. It’s considered one of the first settlements in the U.S. for formerly enslaved individuals.

Bikes are allowed on the beach on the island, so visitors can head down to Folly Field Beach to catch a beautiful Hilton Head sunset along the water. After working up an appetite from a long day of cycling, Skull Creek Boathouse makes a nice spot for dinner. 

The Town of Hilton Head provides free bike maps for visitors. Print the maps directly from their website or pick up a hard copy at the Town Hall. Kiosks with maps are located at major intersections throughout the island. There are also numerous bike rental shops on and off the island.

Buffalo Bayou Bike Paths – Houston, Texas

by Gabby of Office Escape Artist

When you think of Houston, TX, you probably think of large skyscrapers, floods, and oil companies.  Believe it or not, Houston is so much more than this and actually has some wonderful parks and outdoor spaces – all right near downtown! Without a doubt, Buffalo Bayou Park has the best bike paths in Houston.  Spanning 160 acres and offering approximately 15 miles of bike path, Buffalo Bayou is a huge installation for being in the center of a major city.

The paths at Buffalo Bayou often split off to have walking and running only paths and multi-use paths.  This is great for bicyclists because that helps keep foot traffic out of the way.  And despite Houston being largely flat, the path meanders through the bayou which naturally adds some elevation changes and makes the ride a bit more physical.

Buffalo Bayou is so much more than only bike and walking paths, however.  There are art installations sprinkled throughout the park that you’ll stumble upon while exploring.  There’s also the famous Waugh bat colony, home to thousands of small bats.  Eleanor Tinsley Park, a large green space within the larger Buffalo Bayou Park, is a huge area to gather. You’ll see everything from baby showers to volleyball games to large yoga classes taking place here.  And, of course, there’s the bayou itself and the unmatched views of the downtown Houston skyline that just cannot be missed. Buffalo Bayou has so much energy, vibrance, and trail space, which is why it is one of the best bike paths in the US.

Best Bike Trails in the US – West

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail – Anchorage, Alaska

by Susan of This Big Wild World

One of the best ways to explore Anchorage is on two wheels! The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a 22 mile (11 miles each way) paved bike path that stretches from downtown Anchorage to nearby Kincaid Park.  Enjoy views of the Chugach Mountains, Talkeetna Mountains, Denali, and the Cook Inlet in the Gulf of Alaska. It’s not uncommon to spot bears, moose, and coyotes on land and beluga whales just off the shore.

Stop in Earthquake Park to learn about the 9.2 magnitude earthquake that devastated much of Anchorage in 1964. Even today, this is on record as the most powerful earthquake ever in North America. The trail takes a brief turn inland as you ride through Point Woronzof Park, which is ideal for birdwatching. This section also offers beautiful views of the Anchorage skyline. See airplanes taking off and landing at Ted Stevens International Airport. 

Kincaid Park has a chalet with restrooms. If it’s not open when you arrive expect to find a port-o-potty available outside. This is a great place for a picnic before the ride back to Anchorage.

The trail is well marked with mile marker signs throughout and is relatively flat with just a few short steep sections. Plan 2-4 hours to ride the entire trail, depending on how often you want to stop to take photos and enjoy the view! Plan your visit for E-biking on the Anchorage Coastal Trail.

Summit County Recreational Pathway – Frisco, Colorado

by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

If you like cruising long downhills on your bike, then the Summit County Recreational Pathway is for you. The section of this 55-mile trail from Vail Pass to Frisco is an exhilarating descent. Views of the Eagle Nest Wilderness peaks spread out around the trail. Look for mountain goats on the mountain flanks as you speed downhill. Or stop to admire the wildflowers or golden yellow aspens in season. The paved trail travels to many towns in Summit County, Colorado including Frisco, Dillion, and Breckenridge making it one of the best bike trails in the US.

Rent a bike in Frisco and reserve a space on the Vail Pass bike shuttle to be transported with your bicycle to the top of the ride. From there it’s 12 miles of coasting through Ten Mile Canyon to Frisco. You can stop at Copper Mountain Ski Resort to check out the activities, for example, scenic lift rides, bumper boats, or golf.

At the bottom of the pathway descent, enjoy a meal or drink in the frontier mining town of Frisco. Then continue the bike trip around Dillion Reservoir through splendid lodgepole forest with scenic lake views. The pedaling is easy as you wind around the huge lake. Enjoy views of the snow-capped peaks of the Gore Range.

Certainly, you will have an amazing biking trip in the heart of the Rockies on whichever section of the Summit County Recreational Pathway you decide to pedal.

Los Gatos Creek Trail – Santa Clara, California

by Tracy of Sunshine and Vine

Los Gatos Creek Trail is a 10-mile bike and pedestrian pathway in California’s western Santa Clara County. Mixed surfaces of asphalt, wooden bridges, and gravel run along Los Gatos Creek through remote areas, busy parks, and near delightful communities. 

For the most part, the trail is easy with slight inclines and is marked for two-way traffic. There is a difficult graveled hill near Lexington Reservoir, the preferred beginning point for many thru-cyclists. 

Bike the trail from end to end or plan time to explore points of interest. 
– Lexington Reservoir to Los Gatos- 2 miles. (Old Town Los Gatos offers upscale outdoor shopping and dining).  
– Los Gatos to Vasona Lake County Park – 1.5 miles.
– Vasona Lake County Park to Los Gatos Creek County Park – 3 miles.
– Los Gatos Creek County Park to Campbell Park – 1 mile. (Check out nearby Historic Downtown Campbell). 
– Campbell Park to Meridian Avenue in San Jose – 2.5 miles. (Visit nearby Willow Glen’s walkable Lincoln Avenue).

Trail connections are not always obvious, and there are options to follow the trail along either side of the creek. Therefore, first-time users will want to have access to a tail-map.

Los Gatos Creek Trail is beloved by many for its accessibility, blooming vines, scurrying wildlife, resident geese, and more. Whether you are biking for sport or taking the family for a leisurely outing, this trail is for you.

Kapa’a Bike Path – Kauai, Hawaii

by Alex of Alex Getting Lost

The Kapa’a Bike Path is a stunning seafront bike path on the east coast of Kauai, Hawaii. Kauai is also known as the ‘Garden Island,’ thanks to its luscious green rainforests and rugged landscape. Therefore, cycling along the Kapa’a Bike Path is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the island. 

Currently, the path is almost eight miles in length, running from Lydgate Beach to Donkey Beach. However, there are plans to lengthen the bike path to a total of seventeen miles. 

The path is extremely accessible, with ample parking available at Kapa’a-which is a great place to begin. The views along the entire path are absolutely incredible, stretching inland to the mountains and taro fields of the Kauai countryside, and on the other side out towards the Pacific Ocean. Keep your eyes peeled during whale watching season for passing whales and their newborn calves. The season runs from November through March, but sightings are most frequent during January and February. 

Make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen and water as there’s not a lot of shade along the bike path. And be sure to remember your swimming things. Kealia Beach, about halfway along the bike path, has lifeguards who will let you know if conditions are good for swimming. Donkey Beach is a wilder, slightly more secluded spot for swimming, right at the end of the Kapa’a Bike Path. There are no lifeguards here, so make sure you’re confident before jumping in. 

Whitefish Bike Path – Whitefish, Montana

by Taryn of Chasing Trail

Western Montana as a whole is a haven for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. There are countless rivers, world-class blue-ribbon trout fishing in Missoula, epic hiking trails in Big Sky — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Adventure abounds in every corner of this stunningly beautiful section of the U.S., and Whitefish, Montana, is no exception. 

Something unique about Whitefish is that you don’t even have to leave town to find endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Sure, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Glacier National Park are just a short drive away, but you don’t need to hop in the car to find adventure. Instead, grab your bike and hop on the Whitefish Bike & Pedestrian Path, part of the Whitefish Trail.  

The scenic bike and pedestrian trail runs for about 15 miles around town. One of the most popular stretches runs alongside the Whitefish River, from Riverside Park downtown to City Beach at Whitefish Lake. Stop and enjoy the beach before continuing on, either back toward downtown or up to the ski resort. Along the way, you’ll find dozens of quaint cafes and craft breweries. And keep your eyes open, because you’re likely to see deer!

If you’re visiting and don’t have your own bikes, note that many hotels in Whitefish loan them out. The Whitefish River is also extremely calm, so it’s ideal for kayaking, tubing, or SUP. There are plenty of access points along the bike path, so you can easily turn your outing into a full day without ever leaving town. Combine one of the best bike trails in the US with tons of outdoor adventures.

Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path – Santa Barbara, California

by Dhara of Roadtripping California

Biking the Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path is one of the top things to do in Santa Barbara, in south-central California. Both residents and visitors love the bike path as a means to enjoy the city’s fabulous weather. 

Running along the beautiful shore, with wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean on one side, and the Santa Ynez Mountains on the other, the Cabrillo Bike Path is about 4.5 miles long one way. It runs from Butterfly Beach in the south to Leadbetter Beach in the north. 

While two-wheeled regular bicycles are popular, you can also rent e-bikes, or surrey bikes (quadricycles) if you are traveling as a group or a family. Kids, especially, love the surreys. Rentals are available close to the beach. 

Along the route, enjoy the tall palms that line either side of the bike path. Also enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean, sea birds flying overhead, and boats out at sea. You will pass the Santa Barbara Harbor, the historic wharf, and East Beach. The path also goes by the Andree Clark Bird Refuge. 

Biking the Cabrillo Boulevard bike path is especially scenic at sunrise, if you enjoy biking in greater solitude, or at sunset, when you can people watch as you pedal, along with a sensational west coast sunset over the water.

Best Bike Trails in the US – Mid West

The 606 Bloomingdale Trail – Chicago, Illinois

by Tanya of Travels and Treasures

Biking in the Windy City requires skill to navigate some heavily trafficked streets. However, choose the 2.7-mile long 606 Bloomingdale Trail (better known as the 606) if you are looking for the best bike path with no cars!

The 606 is a multi-million dollar effort to create more green space and recreational areas for city residents. As a result, this car-free path was made for walkers, runners, and bikers. It has the added benefit of connecting several neighborhoods such as Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park.  

The 606 is a 10-foot-wide pathway with 2-foot-wide running tracks along both sides. What makes it unique is that the trail is elevated above the city streets, and celebrates the history and art of Chicago.  

With 12 different entry points, the 606 can be easily accessed using the blue line CTA Elevator trains, also known as the “L”, or the Metra commuter train within a 10-minute walk. There are benches and other spots to sit and relax along the trail. Public restrooms may be added in the future. However, there are businesses and restaurants near the exits. On the trail, you’ll find 5 city parks and 21 points of interest (eg. former manufacturing sites), and artwork.  

The 606 is open 7 days per week, from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM CST.

The Monon Trail – Indianapolis, Indiana

From Rachel of Means to Explore

The Monon Trail in Indianapolis is a beautiful railroad-turned-bike-trail corridor that connects downtown with its northern suburbs. This well-shaded, paved path runs for 27 miles from end to end and connects some of Indy’s best-known neighborhoods!

Indianapolis is an unexpected hidden gem in the Midwest. There are plenty of reasons to visit Indianapolis: sports, food, and culture are just the beginning. Enjoy all three with a bike ride on the Monon! 

The trail begins in downtown Indy at 10^th Street, just east of Mass Ave. Head north under the interstates and emerge into Indy’s tree-lined neighborhoods, each with a unique flair!

Cruise past houses, shops, and waterways. Fall Creek and the White River are within a few miles of each other. The Indiana State Fair Grounds, Broad Ripple, and Marrot Park are all popular stops along the trail. Keep going north, passing under I-465 and into Carmel and Westfield for more trail-side shopping and eateries!

Bike into Broad Ripple and grab lunch in this quirky neighborhood full of artists and good food. The 86^th Street crossing of the Monon has an ice cream shop trail-side! 

With dozens of trailheads, it’s easy to customize the length of a bike ride to suit your needs. Visitors without a bike can rent a yellow Indiana Pacers Bikeshare bike for about $10/hour. Kiosks are mainly downtown, but there are a few in Broad Ripple and one or two kiosks at trailheads in between. Cheap transportation for a short trip out of downtown!

The Grand Rounds – Minneapolis, Minnesota

by Tom of MN Trips

The Grand Rounds of Minneapolis bike and hiking route is one of the United States’ longest continuous systems of public urban parkways.  

More than 50 miles of bikeways and hiking paths encompass Minneapolis’s famous chain of lakes, run for more than nine miles along the banks of the Mississippi River, and parallel the long Minnehaha Creek. 

The serene paths around the four large lakes that line the west side are full of cyclists and walkers on any day the weather permits. Walking or cycling the lakes is very high on any what to do in Minneapolis and Saint Paul list of things to. The chain of lakes bikeway is connected via dedicated bike and hiking paths along the Minnehaha Creek, which will, in turn, connect you to parkway paths on the Mississippi. These paths afford lovely views of the scenic river as you cycle toward downtown Minneapolis. See the historical locks and dams that mark the northernmost reaches of river navigation.

The Grand Rounds encompass natural features, including lakes, creeks, woodlands, riverbanks, waterfalls, and wetlands. It’s a constant wonder how much true wilderness is preserved in the city. Indeed, on some reaches of the path, you’ll see little evidence that you’re even in a large city. However, some of the attractions along your route will include human-made features, such as canals, lagoons, parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, picnic grounds, gardens, restaurants, and bridges. From most stretches of the Grand Rounds, you’ll also catch glimpses of the Minneapolis skyline.

Wrap Up of Best Bike Trails in the US

The best way to explore a new area is often by bicycle. Being able to ride on a path with no cars is certainly special, particularly when the bike path meanders past hidden gems of the area. These 18 best bike trails in the US are stuffed with hidden gems and popular destination sights. Enjoy them, and be sure to mention what you think is the best bike trail in the US in the comments.

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