From coast to coast, the United States offers a plethora of rail trails, providing cyclists with the perfect blend of scenic beauty and a connection to railroad history. These trails, with their relatively flat, paved or finely crushed gravel paths, offer an unforgettable biking experience, free from motorized traffic. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, these ten beautiful rail trails in the U.S. should definitely be on your bucket list. Get ready to pedal through history, connect with nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
10. Katy Trail State Park - Missouri
Stretching nearly 240 miles across central Missouri, the Katy Trail State Park is the longest continuous rail trail in the country. This trail, built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad, offers stunning landscapes as it runs along the Missouri River and through picturesque farmland, wooded areas, and historic towns. With its gentle grades, it's suitable for cyclists of all levels. Along the trail, you'll come across old railroad bridges, tunnels, and depots that tell the region's rich railroad history. The best time to visit is during the mild spring or fall weather. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this multi-day adventure.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: The trail is open from 6 am to 10 pm.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall when the weather is mild.
- Things to Do: Biking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and photography.
- Tour Duration: 7 - 10 days.
9. West Ashley Bikeway - South Carolina
For breathtaking water views, the West Ashley Bikeway in South Carolina is a must-visit. This trail follows the shorelines around Charleston Harbor and the tidal rivers, offering cyclists the opportunity to pedal past historic sites like Fort Sumter National Monument and enjoy the scenic beauty of marshlands and beaches. The James Island section, in particular, takes you through a picturesque path under sprawling live oaks adorned with Spanish moss. The bikeway has a smooth and well-maintained paved surface, making it ideal for riders of all skill levels. Take advantage of the pleasant weather in spring and fall to explore this charming trail.
Trail Highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when the temperatures are mild.
- Things to Do: Biking, walking, jogging, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and shopping.
- Tour Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes.
8. Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail - Pennsylvania
Step into the remarkable beauty of the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail in Pennsylvania, where you'll journey through steep, forested gorge terrain. This trail, carved by the Lehigh River, offers outstanding scenery as it winds through the ravine, surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking rock outcroppings. The crushed stone trail spans 26 miles from White Haven to Rockport, providing cyclists with a point-to-point trip that showcases vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow foliage during the fall season. If you're looking for adventure, this trail also offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and wildlife watching.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: The trail is open from 8 am to 8 pm.
- Best Time to Visit: Fall when foliage is changing to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
- Things to Do: Biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, wildlife watching, and fishing.
- Tour Duration: 6 - 8 hours.
7. Des Plaines River Trail - Illinois
Winding through Chicago's northern suburbs, the Des Plaines River Trail is a 55-mile trail that connects communities while following the Des Plaines River. This crushed limestone trail offers a serene journey through forests, wetlands, and prairies, providing ample opportunities to observe local wildlife and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Along the way, you'll pass by attractions such as the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Skokie Lagoons, and Wright Woods Forest Preserve. Whether you choose to cycle the entire length or enjoy shorter loops, this trail offers a wealth of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: 6:30 am-sunset, daily.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer when days are long, and fall when the weather is cooler with vibrant autumn colors.
- Things to Do: Biking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, photography, and geocaching.
- Tour Duration: 1 - 2 days.
6. Park City Rail Trail - Utah
Escape to the scenic beauty of Park City, Utah, and embark on a cycling adventure along the Park City Rail Trail. This gentle route, built on a historic rail bed, takes you through a wooded, hilly landscape, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks, as well as aspen groves and vibrant spring wildflowers. Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of the mining era and historical sites that provide a glimpse into Park City's past. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, this trail has something to offer, from mountain biking to cross-country skiing.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: Open year-round during daylight hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, depending on interests and the kind of experience sought.
- Things to Do: Biking, wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing.
- Tour Duration: 8 hours - Full day.
5. Banks-Vernonia Trail - Oregon
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Pacific Northwest countryside as you explore the Banks-Vernonia Trail in Oregon. This 21-mile paved trail winds through towering Douglas fir trees and fern-filled undergrowth in the forested Coast Range foothills. As you pedal along the path, you'll cross wood trestle bridges and breathe in the crisp, evergreen-scented air. Whether you choose to complete the entire out-and-back or enjoy a shorter intermediate ride, the Banks-Vernonia Trail promises an unforgettable cycling experience.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: 5 am - dusk (Monday - Friday) and 7 am - dusk (Saturday, Sunday, and state holidays).
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall.
- Things to Do: Biking, walking, picnicking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding.
- Tour Duration: 6 hours - Full day.
4. Finger Lakes Trail - New York
For a scenic journey through the Finger Lakes region of New York, the Finger Lakes Trail is a must-ride. Built on an old Auburn Branch railroad corridor, this paved trail takes cyclists between the historic towns of Auburn and Seneca Falls, offering tranquil views of Cayuga Lake and the surrounding forests and fields. With its gently rolling profile, the Finger Lakes Trail is suitable for riders of all levels, providing a peaceful and picturesque route for a day of cycling.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: Daylight hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Fall.
- Things to Do: Hiking, boating, kayaking, wine tasting, waterfalls and scenic views.
- Tour Duration: 5 hours - Full day.
3. Military Ridge State Trail - Wisconsin
As one of Wisconsin's crown jewels, the Military Ridge State Trail offers incredible landscape diversity and a rich history. This 40-mile trail stretches through picturesque landscapes, following the path of an old military road from the mid-1800s. The well-maintained trail connects the towns of Madison, Dodgeville, and Waukesha, providing opportunities for biking, hiking, and snowmobiling in the winter months. Whether you choose to explore a small section or cycle the entire length, the Military Ridge State Trail is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: 1:30 am - 10 pm (Monday and Tuesday), 4 am - 10 pm (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday), 2 am - 4 am and 10 pm - 12 am (Saturday).
- Best Time to Visit: Fall when temperatures are mild, and foliage transforms into vibrant colors.
- Things to Do: Biking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, wildflowers and stunning foliage, photography.
- Tour Duration: 1 day.
2. Cowboy Trail - Nebraska
Embark on an adventure through the heart of Nebraska on the Cowboy Trail, the longest rail trail route in the state. This 321-mile trail stretches from Norfolk to Valentine, flanked by prairie grasslands and offering wide-open vistas reminiscent of the state's rugged cowboy days. As you pedal along the crushed limestone trail, you'll pass through ranches, farmland, and areas teeming with wildlife. Whether you're a nature lover or history enthusiast, the Cowboy Trail provides a uniquely Nebraskan landscape escape.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: Open 24 hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer when days are longer.
- Things to Do: Biking, stargazing, wildlife viewing, historical sites, and photography.
- Tour Duration: 3 - 7 days.
1. Santa Fe Rail Trail - New Mexico
Discover the beauty of New Mexico's arid high desert landscape as you ride the Santa Fe Rail Trail. This 18-mile trail takes cyclists between Santa Fe and Lamy, offering a unique biking experience through a sun-baked environment dotted with yucca and cholla cactus. As you pedal, keep an eye out for roadrunners and take in the big-sky views of the Ortiz Mountains. With its proximity to Santa Fe and the southern end trailhead near the famous El Ortiz restaurant in Lamy, this trail is a true New Mexico treasure.
Trail Highlights:
- Hours: Daylight hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall.
- Things to Do: Biking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and photography.
- Tour Duration: 5 hours - Full day.
In conclusion, the United States is home to a diverse range of rail trails that offer cyclists breathtaking scenery, a connection to history, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to explore the longest continuous rail trail in Missouri or immerse yourself in the enchanting Pacific Northwest countryside in Oregon, these ten beautiful rail trails in the U.S. are a cyclist's dream come true. So grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and embark on a journey through these stunning trails that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.