Posted in USA
May 04, 2019
5 National Parks In America That Every Cyclist Will Love
When it comes to seeing all of America’s different national parks, you’ll find that most travelers make their way into these outdoor spaces by car or camper. But if you’re into enjoying the outdoors on your bike, then you’re probably interested in knowing which of our national parks have the best bicycle-friendly roadways and adventures worth taking. With some of our favorite roads opening up for the year during the spring, now is the perfect time to start planning a trip to one of these breathtaking parks in America.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
A great national park for bicyclists of all levels, Grand Teton National Park features an extensive pathway system that will leave you in awe. From the town of Jackson, the park's pathway extends north to Antelope Flats Road, surrounding you with breathtaking views and wide open spaces. If you don't want to travel with a bike of your own, you'll find that all throughout towns like Teton Village, Moose, and Jackson there are plenty of local businesses that offer bike rentals. To learn more about biking your way through this national park, click here.
Head up to the upper right corner of the U.S. and bike your way through Acadia National Park. Known for its wonderful carriage roads, only bicyclists, pedestrians, and horses are allowed on these roads that will take you right through the best parts of this national park. Ride up the mountainside along destinations like Park Loop Road and you'll quickly reach amazing views of the Atlantic Coast; it's a popular ride to enjoy during the summertime. To learn more about biking your way through this national park, click here.
Zion is a national park that's often suggested to bicyclists who consider themselves to be beginners. If you travel to the western half of Zion National Park you can find tons of amazing routes to bike along. All of the roadways within the national park are permitted for bicycling, with certain areas like the Mount Carmel Tunnel requiring a ride right through the mountain. If you want to avoid highly trafficked areas, you can bike along Zion Canyon Road where visitors will only find traffic from the park shuttles. To learn more about biking your way through this national park, click here.
One of the most beautiful places that you can go biking in America, Crater Lake National Park offers views that overlook the mountains and Crater Lake. This national park is best suited for more advanced cyclists. Crater Lake's Rim Road opens up for the year once all the snow is melted and warmer weather finally arrives. A great bike ride to kick off the spring and summer seasons, throughout the year you'll also find that certain roads in the park offer Vehicle Free Days where bicyclists can enjoy the beautiful roadways without dealing with the noise and traffic from vehicles. To learn more about biking your way through this national park, click here.
Last but not least, bicyclists can go on an unforgettable adventure through Rocky Mountain National Park. Featuring the popular Trail Ridge Road, the national park's road stretches across nearly 50 miles and has almost a 5,000-foot elevation gain. Open from spring through fall, the road sees a good amount of traffic during the summer and will require either $10 for a day pass for cyclists or a $15 pass that covers seven days. With more than 10 miles of roadway that takes you above the treeline, you'll love putting in the effort it takes to reach these amazing views. To learn more about biking your way through this national park, click here.
What’s your favorite park to go bicycling through in the U.S.? For more outdoor adventures to take around the country, read why You’ll Want To Stay At This Extraordinary Eco-Lodge At Least Once In Your Life!
