1. The High Line Canal Trail (Denver, CO)

Distance: 71 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

Denver may be known for its mountain biking, but the High Line Canal Trail is an urban gem that winds through parks, woodlands, and quiet neighborhoods. This scenic route follows an old irrigation canal, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. With multiple entry points, it’s perfect for short rides or a full-day urban adventure.

2. The Anacostia River Trail (Washington, D.C.)

Distance: 20 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Best Time to Ride: Spring & Summer

While most cyclists head to the National Mall, the Anacostia River Trail offers a more relaxed and scenic ride. This hidden route takes riders along the Anacostia River, through wetlands, past historic sites, and into quiet parks. It’s a great way to experience D.C. beyond the tourist hotspots.

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3. The Riverview Greenway (Chicago, IL)

Distance: 7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Best Time to Ride: Summer & Fall

Most cyclists in Chicago stick to the famous Lakefront Trail, but the Riverview Greenway is a quieter alternative that follows the North Branch of the Chicago River. This lesser-known path weaves through tree-lined neighborhoods and small parks, offering a peaceful ride away from the crowds.

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4. The Los Angeles River Path (Los Angeles, CA)

Distance: 32 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Time to Ride: Year-Round

Los Angeles is often seen as a car-centric city, but the L.A. River Path provides a hidden cycling route that showcases a different side of the city. Passing through revitalized green spaces and urban art installations, this path offers a mix of industrial and natural scenery, with views of the city skyline.

5. The Springwater Corridor (Portland, OR)

Distance: 21 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Ride: Spring & Fall

Portland is known for its bike-friendly streets, but the Springwater Corridor offers a secret escape from the urban hustle. This trail runs along the Willamette River and through forests, wetlands, and quiet neighborhoods. It’s one of the best ways to experience Portland’s natural beauty without leaving the city.

6. The BeltLine Eastside Trail (Atlanta, GA)

Distance: 3 miles (expanding)

Difficulty: Easy

Best Time to Ride: Fall & Spring

Atlanta’s BeltLine Eastside Trail is a former railway corridor transformed into a vibrant multi-use path. While it’s gaining popularity, it remains one of the best-kept secrets for urban cycling. The route passes by colorful street art, trendy cafés, and historic industrial buildings, making it a perfect ride for those who love exploring a city’s creative side.

7. The Buffalo Bayou Trail (Houston, TX)

Distance: 15 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Best Time to Ride: Fall & Winter

Houston’s Buffalo Bayou Trail is an unexpected urban oasis, offering a scenic ride along the bayou with stunning skyline views. The path takes cyclists through lush green spaces, past modern art installations, and under historic bridges, creating a unique mix of nature and city life.

8. The Mystic River Greenway (Boston, MA)

Distance: 10 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Best Time to Ride: Summer & Fall

Boston’s Mystic River Greenway is a lesser-known cycling route that follows the Mystic River through quiet parks and historic waterfront areas. Unlike the crowded Charles River paths, this trail offers a more relaxed ride with beautiful views and access to hidden green spaces.