Top Bicycle Touring Routes in the USA

East Coast Greenway, Maine

There are many great Bicycle touring routes in the USA with a wide variety of destinations.

These are different than what a local cyclist might think as I am viewing this from the viewpoint of a foreign visitor.

These are 10 of the best bicycle touring routes in the USA you may wish to consider

Route 1  East Coast Greenway – also known in sections as U.S. Bicycle Route 1 spans almost 3,000 miles from the Canadian border in scenic Maine to Key West, Florida and links all the major eastern seaboard cities. About one-quarter is on traffic-free bicycle paths. Maine, and in particular the Acadia National Park area are very popular.

Route 2  Vermont – is well known for its beautiful scenery, particularly in September and October when the leaves change color. Many trips are available from adventure tour companies usually inn to inn. There are many unsigned Vermont bicycle routes throughout the state.

Route 3  Finger Lakes, New York – not top of mind but this is a popular wine region with numerous waterfalls and quiet hilly roads visited by many cyclists. It is best to base yourself in the typical New England of Hammondsport or Watkins Glen or  Ithaca and do a series of day trips.

Route 4  Lancaster County, Pennsylvania – is a unique part of the United States with one of the largest Amish and Mennonite communities in the country. There is an extensive network of quiet roads for cycling.

Route 5  Kentucky – is famous for its love of horses. There are many miles of quiet roads available passing the horse farms.

Route 6  Blue Ridge Parkway – is a 469 miles scenic route in North Carolina and Virginia. Cyclists find this route popular because of lower traffic levels compared to most highways.

Route 7  Trans America Bike Route – also know as U.S. Bicycle Route 76 it is a cross country bicycle route of 4,200 miles running from Oregon to Virginia along quiet backroads. It is one of two original U.S. Bicycle routes.

Route 8  Mississippi River Trail -Bicycling Guide To The Mississippi River Trail This is a bicycle route that travels from the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, Minnesota to the Mississippi Delta in Louisiana. It is a 3,000 mile route of bicycle friendly roads and multi-use pathways.

Route 9  Central California – includes the famous wine country of the Napa Valley north of San Francisco south to San Diego. Cycling the Pacific coast route is particularly popular.

Route 10 San Juan Islands, Washington State – a scenic artists haven with an unhurried pace. You will want to park yourself in a delightful bed and breakfast or small inn and do some day cycles. This has been voted the most bicycle friendly state for the past few years.

Yes I have left out some great regions such as Wisconsin but there were so many choices. Whichever top bicycle touring routes in the USA in the USA you choose  have a fun time!