Introduction

Biking has become a popular mode of transportation and recreation, with many cities across the United States embracing cycling culture and investing in biking infrastructure. In this article, I will take you on a closer look at what I consider to be the five best cities for biking in the USA, considering factors such as biking infrastructure, safety, bike-friendly policies, and overall biking culture. Additionally, I will explore the vast network of biking trails spread throughout the country, highlighting the length and diversity of trails available for cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re an urban commuter or an adventurous trail rider, these cities and trails offer unparalleled biking experiences. Here is my list of the best 5 US cities for riding in.

Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon consistently ranks among the top cities for biking in the USA. Known for its bike-friendly infrastructure and progressive biking policies, the city boasts a vast network of bike lanes, paths, and dedicated cycling infrastructure. The city’s commitment to cycling is evident in its extensive 350 miles of bike lanes and 90 miles of off-street bike paths. Furthermore, the city’s Bicycle Master Plan continues to prioritize the expansion of biking infrastructure.

Beyond the infrastructure, Portland has a vibrant cycling culture, with numerous cycling events, bike-friendly businesses, and a strong community of bike enthusiasts. The city’s bike-sharing program, abundant bike parking, and supportive cycling organizations contribute to a thriving biking ecosystem.

Here is a link to the Portland Oregon tourist website: https://www.travelportland.com

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota regularly ranks as one of the best cities for biking in the USA. Despite the harsh winters, the city’s dedication to cycling infrastructure and biking culture is exceptional. Minneapolis boasts an impressive 120 miles of on-street bike lanes and 90 miles of off-street paths, providing cyclists with extensive options for commuting and recreational riding.

One of the city’s most iconic biking attractions is the Midtown Greenway, a 5.5-mile-long former railroad corridor that has been transformed into a dedicated biking and walking path. This unique urban trail connects various neighborhoods and provides a safe and scenic route for cyclists.

Minneapolis is also home to Nice Ride, one of the most successful bike-sharing programs in the country. With over 1,800 bicycles available for rent at numerous stations throughout the city, residents and visitors have convenient access to bikes for short trips or leisurely rides.

Here is a link to the Minneapolis tourism board: https://www.minneapolis.org/

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, Colorado, at the base of the Flatirons, nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, offers a picturesque and bike-friendly environment for cycling enthusiasts. With its commitment to sustainable transportation and outdoor recreation, Boulder has developed an extensive network of bike lanes, paths, and trails.

The city’s 74 miles of bike lanes and 96 miles of multi-use paths make it easy for cyclists to navigate through urban areas and explore the surrounding natural beauty. Boulder Creek Path, a scenic trail that stretches for 7.5 miles, offers cyclists a tranquil route through parks, forests, and residential neighborhoods.

Boulder’s bike-friendly initiatives include ample bike parking, bike-sharing programs, and community events that celebrate cycling. The city’s dedication to a healthy and active lifestyle, coupled with its stunning scenery, makes Boulder a haven for cyclists of all levels.

Here is a link to the Boulder, CO tourism office. https://www.bouldercoloradousa.com/

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant music scene and eclectic culture, but it also has emerged as a premier biking city. The city has made significant investments in biking infrastructure, resulting in over 300 miles of bike lanes and shared-use paths.

One of the city’s most popular biking destinations is the Lady Bird Lake Trail, a 10-mile loop that offers breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and the Colorado River. This scenic trail provides a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

Austin’s bike-friendly atmosphere is complemented by its active cycling community and numerous cycling events. The city hosts the annual “Hill Country Ride for AIDS” and “The BP MS 150” cycling events, which attract riders from all over the country. With its warm climate and diverse biking options, Austin is a cyclist’s paradise.

Here is a link to the Austin tourism board: https://www.austintexas.org/plan-a-trip/visitor-center/

Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington, nestled in the Pacific Northwest, is renowned for its natural beauty and commitment to sustainability. The city’s biking infrastructure reflects this ethos, with over 50 miles of bike lanes and numerous dedicated bike paths.

One standout biking attraction in Seattle is the Burke-Gilman Trail, a 27-mile-long trail that winds through scenic parks, neighborhoods, and alongside waterways. This multi-use trail offers cyclists a chance to experience the city’s beauty while enjoying a car-free route.

Seattle’s bike-friendly culture is evident in its bike-sharing programs, bike-friendly businesses, and cycling events. The city’s Cascade Bicycle Club organizes various rides and events throughout the year, catering to cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

Here is a link to the Seattle tourism website: https://visitseattle.org/

There you go, my best 5 US cities to ride in. I will expand this list in the coming months, so bookmark this website and come back to read my other articles soon.

I wanted to include a short section on top riding trails in the US for multi-day trips. this is just a brief view of five of the top ten. We will be publishing other articles on the top ten in the US as well as others that may be great trails but don’t fall into the top ten. So keep an eye out for the new article coming in the new few weeks.

Five Great Biking Trails in the USA

The United States can boast of an extensive network of biking trails that cater to a wide range of preferences and skill levels. From scenic coastal paths to rugged mountain trails, cyclists have a plethora of options to choose from. The length of biking trails in the USA is quite impressive, with notable examples including:

Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail: Stretching for 150 miles, the GAP Trail connects Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, offering cyclists a scenic journey through mountains, valleys, and charming towns.

Katy Trail State Park: Located in Missouri, the Katy Trail spans 240 miles, making it one of the longest continuous rail-trails in the country. The trail meanders along the Missouri River, passing through picturesque farmland and small towns.

C&O Canal Towpath: Running for 184.5 miles alongside the Potomac River, the C&O Canal Towpath is a historic trail that provides a peaceful and scenic route from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland.

The Silver Comet Trail: Extending for 61.5 miles through Georgia and Alabama, the Silver Comet Trail offers a paved and well-maintained route for cyclists, with beautiful scenery and convenient amenities along the way.

The Mickelson Trail: Located in South Dakota, the Mickelson Trail spans 109 miles, traversing the Black Hills and offering stunning views of forests, canyons, and historic sites.

Conclusion

Honestly, there are many great cities to ride a bike in. These just happen to be my 5 best US cities to ride in. The USA offers a wealth of opportunities for cycling enthusiasts, with cities that prioritize biking infrastructure and promote a strong cycling culture. Whether you prefer urban biking or exploring nature on trails, cities like Portland, Minneapolis, Boulder, Austin, and Seattle provide outstanding biking experiences. Moreover, the country’s extensive network of biking trails caters to diverse preferences and showcases the natural beauty of different regions. So, grab your bike, explore these cities, and embark on unforgettable adventures as you discover the joys of cycling in the USA. There is it, my best 5 US cities for riding in and my top 5 trails in the US. I hope you liked it. I’ll expand on this because there are actually a lot of other great US cities to ride in and trails to check out.

In case you want to check out some of our other biking articles, here is a link one on bike safety and maintenance: https://bigworldcycling.com/pedal-with-safet…r-for-bicyclists/