Cycling through the United States’ national parks offers an unforgettable experience, combining breathtaking landscapes with the joy of biking. With 63 national parks, many featuring scenic cycling trails, not all are equally suited for cycling enthusiasts. Here’s a guide to the 10 best national parks for cycling, selected based on safety, scenic routes, and bike-friendly conditions.
1. Glacier National Park
The highlight of Glacier National Park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a must-see for cyclists. While the road is closed to cars during the winter, it becomes a cyclist’s paradise in early summer, before it opens to vehicle traffic. The road is often accessible to bikes before it’s fully cleared for cars, providing a serene ride through stunning mountain scenery. Be prepared for wildlife encounters and bring bear spray.
2. Grand Teton National Park
In Grand Teton National Park, the multi-use pathway alongside the main road offers cyclists fantastic views of the Tetons. The path stretches to Jenny Lake and connects to nearby Jackson, providing over 50 miles of cycling routes. More experienced cyclists can also take on the main road through the park, which offers additional scenic opportunities.
3. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is known for its Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which is closed to private cars for most of the year, except in winter. This restriction allows cyclists to enjoy approximately 15 miles of scenic road, free from the usual traffic congestion. While bikes must yield to shuttles, this setup provides a more relaxed and enjoyable cycling experience.
4. Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park features a network of 45 miles of carriage roads originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. These roads, designed for horses, are now perfect for cyclists seeking a picturesque and smooth ride. The park’s bike-friendly roads offer access to some of the most scenic spots in Maine.
5. Death Valley National Park
Contrary to its name, Death Valley National Park offers an exceptional cycling experience during cooler months. With hundreds of miles of paved roads, the park features a range of desert landscapes. The stark contrast between the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and the high Telescope Peak provides a unique backdrop for cycling.
6. Olympic National Park
The Hurricane Ridge ride in Olympic National Park is renowned for its challenging climb and stunning views. Covering about 19 miles, this route gains over 5,000 feet in elevation. Cyclists can enjoy this road car-free every August, but spots are limited, so early registration is recommended.
7. Everglades National Park
For a flat and wildlife-rich cycling experience, Everglades National Park is ideal. The park boasts five bike pathways, including the 15-mile Shark Valley Tram Road. This flat terrain offers excellent opportunities for observing a variety of wildlife, from alligators to diverse bird species. The bike paths are open year-round.
8. Redwood National Park
Cyclists in Redwood National Park can explore trails like the Lost Man Creek Trail, which features a segment of old-growth forest. The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway provides an excellent ride, with the added benefit of being closed to car traffic on the first Saturday of each month from October to May.
9. Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park offers a unique cycling challenge with its 33-mile Rim Drive around the lake. The route involves a climb of approximately 4,000 feet and is best suited for experienced cyclists. Seasonal car-free periods allow cyclists to enjoy the route without vehicle interference.
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park features about 20 miles of car-free roads in spring and early summer, after snow removal. While the park’s roads are open to cars during peak seasons, the early-season biking opportunities offer a quieter experience through the park’s volcanic landscapes.
Each park has its own regulations regarding cycling, including e-bike usage. Before visiting, check the latest guidelines on nps.gov to ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure.