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Urban cycling is the perfect activity to stay fit, be active, and explore a city. It is a great way to keep your heart pumping and discover new neighborhoods, cultures, and scenic routes.
But hey, not all paths are meant for urban cycling. You need to think of your safety and use the best bike-friendly routes possible for a great experience on two wheels.
Don’t worry! If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next ride, we’ve got you covered.
From the Midtown Greenway to the Lakefront Trail, these best urban cycling routes are sure to impress any cycling enthusiast. So, grab your bike, and let’s hit the road!
Top 7 Scenic Urban Cycling Routes in America
The United States is home to many cities with great cycling infrastructure. But among them, these seven seemed to be the very best to me. Check them out.
1. The Chicago Lakefront Trail
There are plenty of great urban bike paths to explore all across the USA. But I always loved the Chicago Lakefront Trail.
It is an 18-mile-long paved trail that runs along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. It usually starts at the south end of the South Shore Cultural Center.
When you start your ride, you will find many bicycle riders along the way. Also, do not worry about the Chicago traffic.
While on your way, you can access some of the city’s most popular landmarks, such as:
- Navy Pier
- Grant Park
- South Shore Beach
The combination of parks, beaches, and dramatic skyline views easily helps it make the top list.
2. The Minneapolis Midtown Greenway
Here is another one that is my absolute favorite. As a matter of fact, some of my friends refer to it as the best bicycle city.
This 5.5-mile bicycle highway takes cyclists through the heart of Minneapolis. The Greenway provides a safe and efficient transportation option for bike commuters and recreational cyclists alike.
You will be glad to know that the trail is separated from pedestrian traffic. It also features plenty of amenities along the road.
Not just that.
It connects several neighborhoods. And provides a crucial link between downtown Minneapolis and the city’s southwestern suburbs.
One more thing we all like about this place is that there is no speed limit on the trail. However, you should always maintain a speed that is safe for you and other bicycle riders.
Overall, the Minneapolis Midtown Greenway is a shining example of how good an urban cycling route can be.
3. Burke-Gilman Trail Seattle, Washington
On the third of our list, we have the Burke-Gilman Trail. It is located in Seattle, Washington, and will surely blow your mind with its natural beauty.
This 20-mile multi-use trail runs from the Ballard neighborhood in Seattle to the suburb of Bothell.
The trail is entirely grade-separated. So, it is separated from vehicular traffic. That is why no matter what age you belong to; you can always expect it as a safe option.
It has many adjacent parks and passes through different neighborhoods as well. Also, you will get to see other beautiful attractions as well.
A friend from the University of Washington told me about this bicycle friendly place.
It is said that around 6,000 people go to the UW taking a bike ride. And most of them take this route.
Here’s another interesting fact. This trail is known as the “backbone” of Seattle’s cycling infrastructure, Why? Because it connects other cycling routes and is easily accessible from a lot of places.
Last but not the least. This Burke-Gilman Trail had a major impact on helping to promote public health, reduce air pollution, and create a more connected and sustainable community.
4. The Austin Lady Bird Lake Bike Trail
Austin might be known for music. But it also offers us amazing bike paths.
The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is a scenic urban trail in downtown Austin, Texas. It is a 10-mile loop trail that provides a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This Lady Bird Lake trail will offer you some stunning views.
When you pass through the miles of bike paths, you can get access to parks and several lakes. You have my assurance that you will love the place.
I personally love the skyline view of Austin City.
Even if you are not a cyclist, you can always go there as a runner or walker.
While the trail is not technically a “bike lane” in the traditional sense, it is designed to accommodate us cyclists.
You will get painted symbols and signage to give you a clear bike path. Not just that, the trail is separated from the pedestrian path by a white line.
The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is also well-maintained and well-lit, making it a popular option for exercise and recreation year-round.
I hope you can visit the place ASAP.
5. The Portland Eastbank Esplanade
Next up, I have the Portland Eastbank Esplanade. Bicycle Magazine named it the best biking city back in 2012.
It is a great bike route situated in Portland, Oregon.
Here you will find a 1.5-mile multi-use trail that runs along the east bank of the Willamette River. So, you will surely be amazed by the natural views.
I usually go here for shorter rides. And I especially enjoy the view of the river. We always worry about the traffic when we go out on our two wheels. Gladly, the trail here is separated from vehicle traffic for the majority of its length.
When you get through the trail, you will be able to see different parks, massive cargo ships, towering cranes, and bustling warehouses. Also, it features several bridges as well, such as:
- Hawthorne Bridge
- Morrison Bridge
Again, let’s not forget about the beauty of the river either. So, for all these offerings, you can expect a beautiful ride along the Portland Eastbank Esplanade route.
6. Rio Grande Trail-Aspen, Colorado
If you like mountain routes, then this is just the route for you.
The Rio Grande Trail is an urban bike route that is known mostly for mountain biking. It runs 42 miles through the Roaring Fork Valley, connecting the mountain towns of Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt.
I went there a couple of times, and it is without a doubt one of my most favorite rides. Why?
Well, the trail follows the historic Rio Grande Railroad corridor. It will offer you a scenic and immersive experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
You will get to see different valleys and the beautiful mountains of the Roaring Fork Valley. The route connects to 300 miles of single-track trails for mountain biking.
I always stop by the Maroon Bells and Roaring Fork River whenever I go there. You can also see Red Mountain, Basalt Mountain, and, of course, Aspen Mountain.
Trust me, you will love the places.
7. The Albuquerque Paseo del Bosque Trail
Albuquerque is a great American city; we all know that. And it has everything to provide you with an amazing bike ride.
The Albuquerque Paseo del Bosque Trail is an urban bike route that stretches 16 miles through the heart of Albuquerque, New Mexico. It follows the Rio Grande River and passes through the beautiful Bosque area.
You can get separated sections with bike lanes and several road crossings that prioritize the safety of cyclists. So there is no need to worry about safety either.
Last time I went there, I enjoyed the Sandia Mountains a lot. I would suggest you drop by Tingley Beach if you have some time. It is a perfect place for your friends and family.
Wondering what else might be there? There’s the Rio Grande Nature Center and the Albuquerque BioPark.
The first one will give you the opportunity to visit several species of birds. And the second one features several exhibits.
So, grab your bike and get there for a thrilling experience.
Safety Tips for Urban Cycling Routes
If you go out for urban cycling often, then I believe you already know how to take care of yourself. But if you are a beginner, you should always take some safety measures for yourself.
Have a look at these safety tips before heading out.
- Always wear a good, strong helmet.
- Keep your bicycle adjusted.
- Always follow the rules of the road.
- Use lights.
- Avoid night riding if you do not have enough experience.
- Always look before turning.
- Watch for the pedestrians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which city is known as the “city of cyclists”?
Answer: Amsterdam is known as the cycling capital of the world. Most of the people use cycling as it seems to be the easiest way of transport.
Q. Which city is known as a bicycle city?
Answer: Utrecht, Netherlands, is known to be the most bicycle friendly city in the whole world. Around 51 percent of people in the city are known to be cyclists.
Q. What are urban bikes good for?
Answer: Urban bikes are especially designed for inner-city riding. They have wider tyres compared to the city bikes. So you are good to go for short distance trips.
Q. Do urban bikes have suspension?
Answer: Some of the urban bikes do, but most of them don’t.
Q. Is Google Maps good for bike routes?
Answer: For me, YES. Most of the time, it’s accurate. But you should always do a double check to be completely sure.
Final Thought
I hope you got what you came for. There are a lot of urban cycling routes across the USA, let alone the entire world. Among them, I hope you will like these 7 best urban cycling routes the most, like me.
Urban cycling always seems fun and exciting. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, cycling through these cities’ streets and neighborhoods can give you a fresh perspective and an overall good experience.
So, take your bike and start exploring!
