Best States for Biking Trails
We’re proud to say that our home state of Colorado offers some of the most scenic and challenging bike trails in the country.
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Colorado
With over 600 miles of paved bike paths and numerous mountain bike trails, Colorado is a paradise for cyclists. From the gentle slopes of the Front Range to the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, there’s something for every skill level and interest.
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The Continental Divide Trail
This iconic trail stretches over 750 miles from New Mexico to Montana, passing through some of the most stunning landscapes in the American West.
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The Colorado Trail
This 486-mile trail takes riders through some of the most beautiful mountains in the Rockies, with breathtaking views of alpine lakes, meadows, and towering peaks.
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California
From the sun-kissed beaches of San Diego to the redwood forests of Northern California, the Golden State offers endless opportunities for cycling adventure.
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The Pacific Coast Highway
This scenic route runs along the coast from San Francisco to San Diego, offering stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and world-class surfing.
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The Sierra Nevada Mountains
Ride through ancient forests, cross sparkling rivers, and climb to high-altitude mountain passes in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada range.
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Oregon
With its lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic coastline, Oregon is a cyclist’s dream destination.
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The Columbia River Gorge
This stunning gorge cuts through the Cascade Range, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, cliffs, and the mighty Columbia River.
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The Willamette Valley
Ride through the picturesque countryside of western Oregon, exploring quaint towns, vineyards, and orchards.
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Washington
From the rugged coastline to the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Peninsula, Washington State offers endless possibilities for cycling adventure.
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The Olympic Discovery Trail
This 134-mile trail takes riders through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest, including old-growth forests, saltwater estuaries, and rugged coastline.
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The North Cascades National Park
Ride through the stunning mountain scenery of northern Washington, exploring glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks.
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Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these states offer something for everyone. So why wait? Grab your bike and hit the trails!
Longest Bike Trail in Maryland
The longest bike trail in Maryland is the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath.
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This trail spans approximately 184.8 miles from Cumberland, MD to Washington, D.C.
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As a flat and relatively smooth path, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is ideal for riders of all skill levels.
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The trail follows the route of the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which operated from 1831 to 1924.
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Riders can enjoy scenic views of the Potomac River and surrounding countryside along the way.
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The trail is open year-round and offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas.
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For those looking to explore more of Maryland’s bike trails, consider visiting the Patuxent Research Refuge or the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail.
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These trails offer a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, hills, and scenic views, making them great options for riders seeking a challenge or a relaxing ride.
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At Leeds Bicycle, we recommend checking out our guide to Maryland’s best bike trails for more information and inspiration.
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Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in Maryland’s beautiful outdoors.
We encourage you to visit our website at https://leedsbicycle.com/ for more information on bike trails, maintenance tips, and cycling news.
Additionally, check out our friends at AllTrails for more information on bike trails and outdoor activities.
Remember to always wear safety gear and follow local traffic laws when riding your bike.
Where to Ride Bikes in LA
We’re proud to call Los Angeles home, and we know our city has plenty of amazing spots to explore by bike.
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The Beaches
LA’s beaches offer some of the most scenic bike rides in the country. From Santa Monica to Malibu, you can ride along the coast and take in the stunning ocean views.
- Start at Santa Monica Pier and ride north along the beachfront path to Venice Beach.
- Continue on to Marina del Rey and enjoy the beautiful views of the marina.
- Ride south to Malibu and stop at Surfrider Beach for some surfing or sunbathing.
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Mountains and Trails
For a more challenging ride, head into the mountains and explore the many trails and fire roads that crisscross the San Gabriel Mountains.
- Ride the Mount Wilson Trail, which takes you to the summit of Mount Wilson and offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Explore the Arroyo Seco Trail, which winds its way through the mountains and offers stunning views of the canyon below.
- Visit the Griffith Observatory and ride the trails that surround it, taking in the stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Hills.
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City Streets and Bike Paths
LA may be known for its traffic, but there are still plenty of safe and enjoyable bike routes to explore.
- Ride the LA River Bike Path, which runs along the river and offers a unique perspective on the city.
- Explore the streets of Silverlake and Echo Park, which have a vibrant bike culture and plenty of great cafes and restaurants.
- Visit the Farmers Market and ride the bike paths that wind their way through the market.
At Leeds Bicycle, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect bike and getting you out on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, we’ve got the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate LA’s bike scene.
So why wait? Get out there and start exploring – and don’t forget to wear your helmet!
Discover the Best Cycling Spots in Florida
As avid cyclists, we’re always on the lookout for the most scenic and challenging routes to explore.
- The West Coast: With its stunning beaches and picturesque coastal towns, the west coast of Florida offers endless opportunities for cycling adventures. Must-visit spots include the Sarasota County trails, which wind through mangrove forests and along the Gulf of Mexico.
- The Panhandle: Located in the northwestern part of the state, the Panhandle region boasts rolling hills, scenic countryside, and historic towns waiting to be explored by bike. Don’t miss the Blackwater River State Forest, which features over 100 miles of trails suitable for riders of all skill levels.
- The Central Region: Home to Orlando and numerous theme parks, the central region may seem like an unlikely destination for cycling enthusiasts. However, hidden gems like the Orlando Bike Trails offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- The Keys: Stretching south from Miami to Key West, the Overseas Highway provides a unique opportunity to ride alongside the ocean, taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to stop at the iconic Key West Lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding waters.
Whether you prefer flat, easy rides or more challenging hill climbs, Florida has something for every type of cyclist. So why wait? Grab your bike and hit the roads – or trails – to discover the Sunshine State’s best-kept secrets!
Top Picks for Road Biking in Florida
- The Leeds Bicycle team recommends exploring the scenic Cross Florida Greenway, which spans over 110 miles from the St. Johns River to the Gulf of Mexico.
- For a more leisurely ride, try the Winter Park Cycling Trail in Orange County, featuring a 10-foot-wide path perfect for families and beginners.
- Adventure-seekers won’t want to miss the Ocala National Forest, offering over 600 miles of trails for mountain bikers and hikers alike.
Additional Resources
For more information on cycling in Florida, check out these helpful resources:
Most Bike-Friendly City in Florida
We’re proud to say that our home state has many amazing cities for cyclists, but which one takes the crown?
- Key West, FL: With a bike score of 87, Key West is the most bikeable city in Florida and one of the most bikeable in the country.
- Cyclist-Friendly Neighborhoods: The region boasts several cyclist-friendly neighborhoods, like Old Town and New Town, which contain bike lanes and plenty of attractions accessible by bike.
- Bike Lanes and Infrastructure: Key West has invested heavily in bike infrastructure, making it easy for cyclists to navigate the city safely and efficiently.
- Cycling Community: Key West has a thriving cycling community, with numerous bike shops, cycling events, and groups dedicated to promoting cycling in the area.
As a local bike shop, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring Key West’s bike scene and can attest to its excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, Key West is an ideal destination for anyone looking to ride in style and safety.
Other Noteworthy Cities in Florida
- Sarasota, FL: With a bike score of 76, Sarasota is another top contender for most bike-friendly city in Florida.
- Tampa, FL: Tampa has made significant strides in recent years to become more cyclist-friendly, with new bike lanes and infrastructure popping up throughout the city.
- Miami Beach, FL: Miami Beach has a strong cycling culture, with numerous bike rentals and tours available to explore the city’s scenic coastline.
While these cities may not have the same level of bike-friendliness as Key West, they’re still great options for cyclists looking to explore Florida’s beautiful scenery.
Getting Around Key West
Whether you’re visiting Key West or calling it home, getting around the city is easy and convenient. Here are some popular ways to get around:
- Biking: With its flat terrain and scenic routes, biking is a great way to explore Key West.
- Walking: Key West is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many sidewalks and crosswalks making it easy to get around on foot.
- Rentals: There are numerous bike rental shops throughout the city, offering a variety of bikes and equipment for rent.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available in Key West, making it easy to get around without a car.
At Leeds Bicycle, we’re passionate about promoting cycling in Key West and beyond. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we invite you to join us in celebrating the joy of cycling!
Where is the Cycling Capital of America?
Sparta, Wisconsin is widely recognized as the Cycling Capital of America due to its extensive network of bike trails and scenic routes.
- The city boasts over 100 miles of paved bike trails, making it an ideal destination for cyclists of all skill levels.
- The Elroy-Sparta State Trail, a 32-mile rail-trail, is one of the most popular routes in the area, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
- In addition to its extensive trail network, Sparta also offers a variety of bike rentals, shops, and services catering to cyclists.
As a cyclist myself, I can attest to the fact that Sparta’s commitment to cycling infrastructure and community makes it a haven for enthusiasts.
- The city hosts several annual events, including the Sparta Bike Festival, which celebrates all things cycling with rides, demos, and workshops.
- The local cycling community is active and welcoming, with numerous groups and clubs offering guided rides and social events.
- For those looking to explore beyond Sparta, the surrounding countryside offers rolling hills, scenic vistas, and challenging terrain, making it a paradise for road cyclists.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Sparta, Wisconsin has something to offer every type of cyclist.
Cycling Resources in Sparta
Getting Involved in the Local Cycling Community
Join one of the many local cycling groups or clubs to connect with fellow enthusiasts and stay up-to-date on upcoming events and rides.
Visit the Sparta Visitor Center for maps, brochures, and insider tips on exploring the area’s best cycling routes.
Stop by Leeds Bicycle for expert advice, bike rentals, and accessories to enhance your cycling experience.
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