National parks are some of the most beautiful and treasured landscapes in the world, and there is no better way to experience their splendor than on two wheels. Biking through national parks allows you to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy breathtaking views at your own pace, and access trails that cars simply cannot reach. From smooth scenic loops to rugged off-road trails, there are national park experiences suitable for all types of cyclists. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best national park biking trails that you simply must explore, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking to enjoy a leisurely ride surrounded by natural beauty.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Carriage Roads: Acadia National Park is home to some of the most iconic bike trails in the northeastern United States. The park features 45 miles of historic carriage roads that wind through lush forests, around sparkling lakes, and over beautiful stone bridges. Built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., these wide, crushed-stone paths are ideal for beginner and intermediate cyclists looking to enjoy a peaceful ride with spectacular views.
The Jordan Pond Loop is a particularly popular route, offering a scenic ride around one of the park’s most beautiful lakes. The path is easy to navigate, with plenty of places to stop for a break or a photo. Riding in Acadia is a great way to take in the sights without the congestion of motor vehicles, making it an ideal spot for families and casual riders.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Multi-Use Pathway: Grand Teton National Park offers incredible biking opportunities, with the Grand Teton Multi-Use Pathway being a highlight for cyclists of all abilities. This 20-mile paved pathway stretches from the town of Jackson to Jenny Lake, offering breathtaking views of the towering Teton Range, expansive meadows, and occasional sightings of wildlife like elk and bison.
The smooth, well-maintained path is separated from vehicle traffic, making it a safe and enjoyable ride for families and less experienced cyclists. Riding in the shadow of the Tetons with the jagged peaks in view is a truly unforgettable experience. Be sure to take a break at Jenny Lake to soak in the scenery or take a quick hike along one of the nearby trails.
Yosemite National Park, California
Valley Loop Trail: Yosemite National Park is world-renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including iconic granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and towering sequoias. The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is a perfect way to explore the park on two wheels. This 12-mile loop winds through Yosemite Valley, providing views of famous landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
The trail is mostly flat, which makes it accessible to cyclists of all levels. Riding through Yosemite Valley allows you to experience the grandeur of the park up close, while also avoiding the traffic that often clogs the main roads. There are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or to snap a photo, and the loop offers a fantastic perspective of some of Yosemite’s most iconic features.
Zion National Park, Utah
Pa’rus Trail: Zion National Park is a stunning landscape of red rock canyons, sandstone cliffs, and emerald pools. The Pa’rus Trail is the only trail in the park where bikes are allowed, and it provides an amazing introduction to the park’s beauty. This easy, paved 3.5-mile trail runs along the Virgin River, offering cyclists incredible views of the surrounding canyon walls.
The Pa’rus Trail is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for families. For a longer ride, consider riding along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive—while bikes aren’t allowed on the hiking trails, the scenic drive is open to cyclists, allowing you to take in the stunning views without the crowds, especially during the shuttle-only season when cars are restricted.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a 20-mile route that follows the historic canal where mules once pulled canal boats along the waterway.
The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. Riders can enjoy beautiful views of the Cuyahoga River, pass through lush woodlands, and explore historical structures along the way. The towpath offers numerous access points, making it easy to customize your ride to fit your schedule and ability level.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Trail Ridge Road: For those seeking a challenge, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is an iconic ride. Known as the “Highway to the Sky,” this 48-mile road reaches altitudes over 12,000 feet, making it the highest continuous paved road in North America. The climb is tough, but the views are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Rockies, alpine tundra, and abundant wildlife.
This ride is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced cyclists—it requires a high level of fitness and proper acclimation to the altitude. However, for those up for the challenge, the reward is an unforgettable experience as you ride above the treeline with the expansive mountain landscape stretching in every direction.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Cades Cove Loop: The Cades Cove Loop is a popular biking destination in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 11-mile, one-way loop road takes cyclists through a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. The ride is filled with opportunities to see wildlife, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings from May through September, the road is closed to motor vehicles, allowing cyclists to enjoy the loop without any traffic. The combination of historic cabins, wide open meadows, and stunning mountain views makes Cades Cove a perfect choice for a leisurely ride in the Smokies.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road: Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most iconic roads in the United States, and biking it is an unforgettable adventure. This 50-mile route takes cyclists through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
The road is steep and challenging, with significant elevation gain, so it’s best suited for experienced cyclists. However, during the spring and early summer, sections of the road are closed to cars but open to cyclists, providing a unique opportunity to experience the road without traffic. The stunning scenery and sense of accomplishment make this a must-do ride for those who are up for the challenge.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Skyline Drive: Skyline Drive runs the entire length of Shenandoah National Park, offering 105 miles of winding roads through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The road features numerous overlooks where cyclists can stop to take in panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont to the east.
While Skyline Drive is open to motor vehicles, the speed limit is low, and drivers are generally accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists. The rolling terrain and beautiful scenery make this a rewarding ride, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing and the landscape is ablaze with color.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Rim Drive: Crater Lake’s Rim Drive is a 33-mile loop that circles the stunning blue waters of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States. The route offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding cliffs, as well as access to several viewpoints and trailheads. The ride is challenging, with significant climbs, but the breathtaking views make every mile worth the effort.
In September, the park hosts a Car-Free Day, when Rim Drive is closed to vehicle traffic, allowing cyclists to enjoy the route without the presence of cars. This is the best time to experience Crater Lake by bike, as you can fully appreciate the serenity and beauty of the area.
Enjoying the Journey
Exploring national parks by bike offers a unique perspective that simply can’t be matched by driving or even hiking. The ability to cover more ground than on foot, while still being immersed in the environment, allows cyclists to experience the beauty and tranquility of these natural wonders in a deeply personal way. Whether you prefer gentle rides on scenic pathways or challenging climbs to mountain summits, there’s a national park trail for every type of cyclist. Pack your gear, plan your route, and set off on a two-wheeled adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the incredible landscapes that national parks have to offer.
