Top National Parks for Cyclists: Trails with Breathtaking Views

Cycling through a national park is one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty up close. From winding mountain roads to scenic valley trails, these parks offer some of the most breathtaking cycling routes in the USA. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging climb, here are the top national parks for cyclists.

1. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Best Route: Carriage Roads
Distance: 45 miles of interconnected trails
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Ride: Summer & Fall

Acadia National Park’s historic Carriage Roads offer some of the most scenic cycling in the Northeast. These well-maintained gravel paths wind through lush forests, around crystal-clear lakes, and up to stunning coastal viewpoints. With no cars allowed on the trails, this is a peaceful and immersive ride.

2. Glacier National Park (Montana)
Best Route: Going-to-the-Sun Road
Distance: 50 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall (before and after peak tourist season)

For cyclists who love a challenge, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-ride. This iconic route climbs high into the Rocky Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views of glacial valleys, waterfalls, and alpine peaks. The best time to ride is in spring, when the road is open to cyclists but closed to cars, creating a truly magical experience.

3. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
Best Route: Skyline Drive
Distance: 105 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

Skyline Drive is one of the most famous scenic routes in the country, and it’s a dream for cyclists. This winding road runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering sweeping views at every turn. Expect long climbs, thrilling descents, and minimal traffic early in the morning.

4. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Best Route: Yellowstone Grand Loop
Distance: 142 miles (various sections available)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall (before summer crowds arrive)

Cycling through Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable experience, with opportunities to ride past geysers, hot springs, and wildlife like bison and elk. While summer traffic can be heavy, riding in spring or fall allows you to enjoy the park’s dramatic landscapes with fewer cars.

5. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Best Route: Hermit Road
Distance: 7 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

Cycling along the rim of the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles for most of the year, making it perfect for cyclists. The ride offers stunning views of the canyon, with several scenic overlooks along the way.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina)
Best Route: Cades Cove Loop
Distance: 11 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

The Cades Cove Loop is a cyclist’s paradise, offering a peaceful ride through lush valleys, historic homesteads, and abundant wildlife. On certain mornings, the loop is closed to cars, making it a perfect time for a stress-free ride through the Smokies.

7. Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Best Route: Geology Tour Road
Distance: 18 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Ride: Fall & Spring

For those who love desert landscapes, Geology Tour Road is an incredible cycling route through Joshua Tree’s unique rock formations and vast open spaces. The gravel road requires a sturdy bike, but the solitude and scenery make it worth the effort.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Best Route: Trail Ridge Road
Distance: 48 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Best Time to Ride: Summer

Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in any national park, reaching an elevation of over 12,000 feet. The ride is demanding but offers unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains. Early mornings are the best time to avoid traffic and experience the crisp mountain air.

Cycling through a national park offers a unique way to connect with nature, enjoy stunning landscapes, and experience the freedom of the open road. Whether you’re cruising along a peaceful valley or tackling a high-altitude climb, these parks provide some of the most spectacular rides in the country.

Before heading out, check park regulations, bring plenty of water, and prepare for changing weather conditions. Ready for an unforgettable ride? Pick a park, hop on your bike, and start exploring!