Explore America’s National Parks on Two Wheels: The Ultimate Cycling Adventure
If you're looking for a thrilling and unique way to experience the beauty of America's national parks, cycling might just be your best bet. The United States boasts 63 national parks, many of which offer picturesque trails perfect for biking. However, not all parks are created equal when it comes to cycling. Some provide better safety, scenic routes, and overall experiences for those on two wheels. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 national parks in the U.S. that every cycling enthusiast should explore.
1. Glacier National Park: A Cyclist’s Secluded Paradise
Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is a true marvel. While most visitors navigate this stunning route by car, the best way to experience it is by bike. Every year, snowfall closes this road, requiring extensive clearing before it can be reopened. However, before it opens to vehicles, cyclists have a golden opportunity to enjoy this scenic path all to themselves. Imagine pedaling through breathtaking landscapes, with the occasional sighting of wildlife like bears—don't forget your bear spray! Though the road eventually opens to cars, the cycling experience remains unforgettable.
2. Grand Teton National Park: Majestic Rides Amidst Towering Peaks
Grand Teton National Park offers one of the most stunning backdrops in the country. The multi-use pathway that runs parallel to the main road allows cyclists to enjoy the park’s craggy mountain views without the worry of car traffic. This pathway extends to Jenny Lake and beyond into Jackson, giving you the chance to extend your ride through some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. For the more experienced riders, the park’s main road offers an exhilarating ride with spectacular mountain views.
3. Zion National Park: A Car-Free Cycling Experience
Zion National Park, one of America’s most visited national parks, surprisingly offers a tranquil cycling experience. To manage heavy traffic, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private cars for most of the year, leaving it open only to shuttle buses and bicycles. This allows cyclists to enjoy a serene, 15-mile round-trip ride through some of the park’s most scenic areas, without the constant interruption of cars. This unique experience lets you connect with the park’s natural beauty at a pace only cycling can provide.
4. Acadia National Park: Pedal Through History
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Acadia National Park, located in Maine, offers 45 miles of carriage roads, funded by John D. Rockefeller Jr., that provide one of the most bike-friendly experiences in any national park. These historic roads, carefully designed to blend with the surrounding landscape, lead cyclists to some of the park’s best views. Free from car traffic, these roads allow you to explore the park’s natural beauty and historical significance on two wheels.
5. Death Valley National Park: A Ride Through Extremes
Death Valley might not seem like the most inviting place for a bike ride, especially in summer when temperatures can soar to 130°F (54°C). However, in the cooler months, this park becomes a cyclist’s dream. Hundreds of miles of paved roads wind through varying desert landscapes, offering a unique experience. From the lowest elevation point in North America at Badwater Basin to the heights of Telescope Peak, Death Valley provides a cycling adventure unlike any other.
6. Olympic National Park: Conquer the Hurricane Ridge
Olympic National Park in Washington State offers one of the best climbs in the Pacific Northwest. The Hurricane Ridge ride starts at the coast and climbs over 5,000 feet in just 19 miles, providing cyclists with an incredible challenge and breathtaking mountain scenery. Each August, the park closes the road to cars, allowing cyclists to tackle this tough climb in peace. Make sure to sign up early, as spots for this car-free event are limited.
7. Everglades National Park: Flat Rides Through a Wildlife Wonderland
If you're looking for a flat, leisurely ride, Everglades National Park in southern Florida is the place to go. The park offers five bike pathways, including the 15-mile Shark Valley Tram Road, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife as you ride. Unlike many national parks, the Everglades’ bike paths are open year-round, making it an ideal destination for cycling in the winter months.
8. Redwood National Park: Cycle Among the Giants
Northern California’s Redwood National Park offers a unique opportunity to cycle through some of the tallest trees in the world. Starting at the Elk Meadow Day Use Area, cyclists can explore several trails converted from old logging roads. The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is another excellent route, and on the first Saturday of each month from October to May, it’s closed to cars, offering a peaceful ride through these ancient giants.
9. Crater Lake National Park: A Serene Loop Around a Volcanic Lake
Crater Lake in Oregon provides a stunning 33-mile loop around its deep blue waters. With 4,000 feet of elevation gain, this ride is best suited for experienced cyclists. While the road can get busy with cars during peak season, there are periods when it’s closed to vehicles, allowing cyclists to enjoy the ride without interruption. Twice a year, the park even closes about two-thirds of the road to cars, making it an ideal time to visit.
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Springtime Solitude on Volcanic Roads
Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California may not have dedicated bike paths, but its roads offer scenic rides through volcanic landscapes. During the spring and early summer, after the snow has been cleared but before the roads are opened to cars, cyclists can enjoy 20 miles of car-free riding. This unique window of opportunity offers unparalleled solitude and the chance to explore the park’s volcanic features at your own pace.
Cycling through America’s national parks offers a unique way to experience their natural beauty. Whether you’re navigating through towering redwoods, circling a volcanic lake, or cruising along the flat paths of the Everglades, these parks provide unforgettable adventures on two wheels.
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