Exploring national parks by bike is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the natural beauty of the United States. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just enjoy a scenic ride, biking allows you to see landscapes up close and at your own pace. These top 10 national parks for cycling will surely blow your mind.
At Velo, it is believed there’s no better way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air than on two wheels. So, if you’re ready to start planning your next adventure, here’s a list of the top 10 national parks for cycling.
We’ve put together this list by focusing on parks that offer scenic and safe routes, so you can enjoy the ride without worrying too much about heavy traffic. Plus, some parks even have car-free days or seasons, making the cycling experience that much better. Now, let’s dive into our top picks!
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
The first one among the Top 10 National Parks for Cycling in the United States is Glacier National Park, located in northern Montana. This park is known for its stunning mountain views and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
While most people drive this scenic route, one of the best-kept secrets is that cyclists can enjoy the road before it opens to cars each year. After the snow is plowed but before traffic is allowed, cyclists get a chance to ride this 50-mile stretch without the stress of cars. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, and trust me, the views of the waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife make it worth every pedal.
2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Next up is Grand Teton National Park, where the majestic Teton mountain range rises above a stunning valley. What’s great about this park is the multi-use pathway that runs parallel to the main road, giving cyclists a car-free option for most of the ride.
The path is perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxed ride while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. It lands second on the list of Top 10 National Parks for Cycling in the United States, And if you want a longer ride, the pathway connects to Jackson, Wyoming, adding another 50 miles of cycling opportunities. More experienced cyclists can also tackle the main road through the park, which offers spectacular views of the Tetons.
3. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is one of the most popular parks in the U.S. and with good reason. However, what many people don’t realize is that Zion is also a fantastic place for cycling, especially because cars are restricted on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive for most of the year.
This gives cyclists access to 15 miles of beautiful, traffic-free riding. You’ll have to let the park’s shuttle buses pass occasionally, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace and quiet you’ll enjoy as you pedal through Zion’s famous red rock canyons.
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
If you’re looking for a cycling destination on the East Coast, Acadia National Park in Maine is a must-visit. Thanks to John D. Rockefeller Jr., the park features 45 miles of carriage roads, all completely closed to cars.
These roads were designed to blend with the natural landscape, offering cyclists a scenic, peaceful ride through forests, around lakes, and up mountains. The best part? The well-maintained gravel roads are great for cyclists of all skill levels, and the views from Cadillac Mountain are simply unbeatable.
5. Death Valley National Park, California
One of the Top 10 National Parks for Cycling in the United States is Death Valley. When you think of Death Valley, cycling might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, during the cooler months (fall and winter), this park offers hundreds of miles of paved roads for cyclists to explore.
From the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, to the towering Telescope Peak, you’ll experience the surreal beauty of the desert up close. Just be sure to avoid the summer months when temperatures can reach dangerous levels.
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
If you love a good climb, Olympic National Park in Washington has you covered. The Hurricane Ridge ride is one of the best climbs in the Pacific Northwest, with cyclists gaining over 5,000 feet of elevation in just 19 miles.
Each August, the park closes the road to cars for a special cycling event, giving riders a chance to tackle this challenging climb without worrying about traffic. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
7. Everglades National Park, Florida
For those who prefer flat terrain, the Everglades in southern Florida is an excellent choice. Unlike many national parks with steep climbs, the Everglades offers a number of bike paths that are flat and easy to navigate.
The most popular route is the Shark Valley Tram Road, a 15-mile loop where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife as you ride. The best part? The park is open year-round, making it a perfect winter cycling destination when the weather is pleasant.
8. Redwood National Park, California
Cycling among the towering redwoods of Northern California is an unforgettable experience. In Redwood National Park, the Lost Man Creek Trail is a great option for cyclists looking to explore the forest on two wheels. This trail, along with others in the park, was once used by logging trucks, but today it’s a peaceful route for cyclists.
For an even more special experience, visit the park on the first Saturday of the month from October to May, when the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is closed to cars. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the forest without any distractions.
9. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake is another gem among the Top 10 National Parks for Cycling in the United States for cyclists, offering a 33-mile loop around the rim of the caldera. The Rim Drive offers breathtaking views of the deep blue lake, but it’s a challenging ride with about 4,000 feet of elevation gain.
For those looking for a quieter experience, the park has car-free days in the spring and fall, when the roads are open only to cyclists. If you’re up for the challenge, this is one of the most beautiful rides in the country.
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Last but not least in the list of Top 10 National Parks for Cycling is Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California. Like many parks that experience heavy snowfall, the roads in Lassen are closed to cars in the winter but start to reopen in the spring.
This creates a window of time when cyclists can enjoy car-free roads while riding past volcanic peaks, hot springs, and stunning landscapes. If you visit in early summer, you’ll have miles of road all to yourself as you explore this lesser-known gem.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or someone who just enjoys a scenic ride, these national parks offer incredible opportunities to explore and have fun in the great outdoors by bike. From the towering peaks of Glacier and the Tetons to the peaceful roads of Acadia and the Everglades, each park has its own unique charm.
