As the temperatures drop and leaves start turning brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange, fall becomes the perfect time for cycling enthusiasts to hit the trails. The crisp air, colorful landscapes, and stunning natural scenery offer an unforgettable experience, making autumn one of the most popular times of the year for biking. Here are some of the best places to bike in the fall, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the season’s incredible scenic views.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
Stretching over 469 miles across the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most stunning views in the eastern United States. Known for its rolling hills, serene valleys, and spectacular autumn foliage, the parkway offers cyclists a challenging yet rewarding ride. Whether you choose to ride the entire route or pick a smaller section, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of vibrant fall colors that make the experience truly magical.
2. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a cyclist’s dream come true, especially during the fall when the New England foliage is at its peak. The park’s carriage roads offer over 45 miles of car-free paths that wind through forests and around lakes, making it an ideal destination for both beginner and experienced riders. As you cycle through the park, you’ll encounter a mix of rocky coastlines, lush forests, and picturesque mountains—all decked out in warm fall hues.
3. Great Allegheny Passage, Pennsylvania and Maryland
The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150-mile-long rail-trail that stretches from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland. The trail passes through charming towns, over historic bridges, and alongside beautiful rivers, providing a mix of scenery that’s especially gorgeous in the fall. The crisp air and vibrant fall colors surrounding the trail make it a perfect ride for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the season.
4. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway offers cyclists a unique experience, combining the beauty of nature with a sense of historical wonder. Spanning 444 miles from Mississippi to Tennessee, the parkway is known for its well-maintained road, gentle curves, and incredible fall foliage. As you ride, you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, historic landmarks, and forested areas bursting with reds, oranges, and yellows—all while enjoying the peacefulness of a route that’s largely free of commercial traffic.
5. Katy Trail State Park, Missouri
The Katy Trail is the longest developed rail-trail in the United States, stretching for 240 miles along the Missouri River. This trail offers a relatively flat and easy ride, making it perfect for cyclists of all levels. During the fall, the trail is lined with trees showing off their brilliant fall colors, and you can take in the scenic views of farmlands, small towns, and the river along the way. The charm of Missouri in autumn, with its golden fields and orange-hued trees, makes the Katy Trail an unforgettable fall destination.
6. Cades Cove Loop, Tennessee
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove Loop is an 11-mile loop that’s perfect for a leisurely ride with breathtaking views. The loop offers plenty of opportunities to view wildlife, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. During the fall, the rich foliage of the surrounding forests turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, providing cyclists with a truly immersive fall experience.
7. Door County, Wisconsin
Door County, located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is often referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” It offers a diverse array of cycling routes that take you past lighthouses, scenic coastlines, and charming small towns. During the fall, Door County becomes a picturesque wonderland, with the leaves creating a vibrant tapestry of colors that contrast beautifully against the sparkling blue waters. The moderate temperatures and quiet roads make fall biking in Door County a true pleasure.
8. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Skyline Drive, which runs through Shenandoah National Park, is another must-ride destination for fall cyclists. The 105-mile-long road offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with overlooks that showcase the surrounding valleys and colorful autumn foliage. The park’s winding roads and rolling hills make for a challenging yet rewarding ride, and the scenic overlooks provide plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the stunning fall scenery.
9. Maroon Bells, Colorado
If you’re looking for a more mountainous ride, Maroon Bells in Colorado is one of the best destinations to explore during the fall. The ride up to Maroon Lake is challenging, but the views are worth the effort. The iconic peaks, covered in snow, provide a stunning backdrop against the vibrant aspen trees, which turn bright yellow during the fall. The crisp mountain air and incredible scenery make Maroon Bells a favorite among cyclists seeking a fall adventure.
10. Cape Cod Rail Trail, Massachusetts
The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a 25-mile paved path that takes you through some of the most charming towns in Massachusetts. During the fall, the trail is lined with vibrant red and orange foliage, and you’ll pass by cranberry bogs, ponds, and sandy beaches. The flat, well-maintained trail makes it an easy ride for cyclists of all levels, and the opportunity to enjoy the unique coastal scenery of Cape Cod in the fall is truly special.
11. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Lake Tahoe offers some of the most beautiful biking routes in the country, and fall is an ideal time to visit. The cooler temperatures make for a comfortable ride, and the changing colors of the aspen and pine trees provide a breathtaking contrast to the deep blue of the lake. One of the most popular routes is the 72-mile loop around the lake, which offers stunning views at every turn and a variety of challenging climbs and descents for more experienced cyclists.
12. Mount Desert Island, Maine
Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, offers a variety of biking routes that showcase the island’s natural beauty. During the fall, the island is transformed into a colorful paradise, with the trees displaying brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The carriage roads, originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., are perfect for cyclists who want to explore the island without the stress of car traffic. The combination of coastal views and vibrant foliage makes Mount Desert Island a must-visit destination for fall cyclists.
13. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is a beautiful destination for fall cycling, with its mix of scenic trails, rolling hills, and charming vineyards. The TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) Trails offer over 60 miles of routes to explore, with paths that wind through forests, orchards, and along the shores of Lake Michigan. Fall is an ideal time to visit Traverse City, as the cooler temperatures and colorful foliage provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable ride.
14. Leelanau Trail, Michigan
Connecting Traverse City to Suttons Bay, the Leelanau Trail offers a peaceful ride through orchards, vineyards, and forests. During the fall, the trail is lined with trees showcasing a stunning array of colors, and you’ll pass by quaint farms and wineries. This 17-mile trail is perfect for those looking for a leisurely ride to take in Michigan’s fall beauty.
15. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge is a must-visit destination for cyclists seeking stunning views and challenging terrain. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail offers cyclists a car-free experience with panoramic views of the gorge, waterfalls, and lush forests. During the fall, the landscape bursts into color, making the ride even more picturesque. The crisp air and scenic vistas provide an unforgettable fall biking experience.
16. Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile rail-trail that runs from Abingdon to Whitetop Station in Virginia. The gentle downhill gradient makes it accessible to riders of all skill levels, and the trail passes through charming small towns, forests, and farmlands. During the fall, the trail is transformed into a colorful wonderland, with the leaves creating a vibrant canopy overhead. The peaceful setting and gentle ride make the Virginia Creeper Trail a popular choice for a fall biking getaway.
Autumn is truly a magical time to explore these beautiful biking destinations. Whether you’re seeking challenging climbs, leisurely rides, or just a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall, these trails offer something for every type of cyclist. Grab your bike, take a deep breath of crisp fall air, and get ready to enjoy some of the most scenic views that nature has to offer.
