Biking
Pedal through the spectacular landscapes of our parks on two wheels.
Shift into gear and put the pedal down, because there's nothing quite like cycling through a national park. With many parks featuring car-free paths, and others offering off-road trails, you'll find seemingly endless opportunities to explore on two wheels.
Pedal power
Whether you prefer the speed and agility of road bikes, the off-road thrills of mountain biking, or the sense of discovery that awaits aboard a gravel bike, you'll find a wealth of bicycling opportunities in our parks. Little-traveled paved roads, dirt trails, gravel lanes: national parks are a cyclist's paradise, and exploring by bicycle is one of the best (and, not inconsequentially, most fun) ways to connect with these spectacular landscapes. So put the pedal down, feel the wind in your hair, and come ride with us.
A few things to consider
Bring the right wheels
Because every one of our parks is unique, it's important to check with the specific park you're planning to visit to get a better sense of the terrain and the types of roads (or trails) that are open to bicycles.
Check for electric bike access
In general, electric bikes are allowed in national parks only where traditional, non-electric bikes are allowed. Remember that many national parks are very remote and offer few services; as such, please check with individual parks regarding battery charging options and individual restrictions.
Check for bike lanes
While many of the scenic routes recommended for driving are also suitable for cycling, some have very narrow roads with little-to-no shoulders, blind corners, and inconsistent surface conditions. As always, it's best to research your preferred route ahead of time.
Dress for safety
Please wear high visibility clothing for your safety, particularly when traveling on main roads.
Stay hydrated
As with all outdoor activities, it's critical to carry plenty of water while cycling. Exertion can quickly lead to dehydration.
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Best parks to explore on two wheels
Looking for the perfect morning ride? Don't forget to bring your bike when you visit these national parks.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
This northern California park is perfect if you like a more rugged terrain. Near the avid cycling community of Redding, the mountainous and forest-covered trails are delightful during most of the year.
Saguaro National Park
If you're a cyclist, it might come as no surprise to find Saguaro National Park on this list. The Rincon District is famous for its paved loop, and the conditions are nearly perfect all year. (Be careful to start before the sun comes up in the summer months.) Tucson has no shortage of hip coffee shops to meet up with your fellow colorfully clad cyclists for a post-ride pastry.
Petroglyph National Monument
Yes, Petroglyph is known for its astounding collection of petroglyphs. However, this Albuquerque park connects to the city's iconic bike trails.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead is a powerhouse of a family-friendly park with water recreation, camping, hiking, and biking paths for park lovers of all ages. From paved paths to backcountry roads, there's no shortage of options for biking at this park on the border of Arizona and Nevada.
Where to go
Explore parks for biking
Legend
- Partner Park
- Gateway City
