Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN ATLANTA
Planning a cycling vacation in Atlanta? You’re in for a treat. This Southern gem offers a mix of urban cycling paths, historic neighborhoods, and stunning greenways that make it a dream for bike touring enthusiasts. Whether you're craving nature trails, city views, or a bit of both, Atlanta’s got you covered. From beginner-friendly routes to more adventurous treks, this guide covers the best places to ride, what to expect, and how to make the most of your time on two wheels in ATL.
Top scenic bike routes in Atlanta
Atlanta may be known for its traffic, but savvy cyclists know there’s another side to the city—a network of picturesque trails that weave through lush parks, historic sites, and skyline views. If you're in town with your bike, these are the top scenic routes to add to your itinerary.
BeltLine Eastside Trail
The BeltLine is Atlanta’s most iconic urban trail, and the Eastside segment is a must-ride. This 3-mile paved trail connects neighborhoods like Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, and Old Fourth Ward, and it’s lined with public art, patios, and people-watching galore.
Grab a coffee at Ponce City Market before hitting the trail, and don’t be afraid to hop off and explore the nearby parks and food spots. This route is flat, well-maintained, and ideal for casual touring.
Silver Comet Trail
Stretching over 60 miles westward from the Atlanta outskirts to the Alabama state line, the Silver Comet Trail is a bike tourer’s dream. Paved, car-free, and surrounded by greenery, it offers long stretches of peaceful riding with plenty of rest stops.
Access points: Smyrna, Mableton, Hiram
Highlights: Historic train trestles, quiet forest segments
Best for: Long-distance cyclists and those with road or touring bikes
Freedom Park Trail
Winding from the Carter Center to Candler Park, the Freedom Park Trail gives you a scenic ride through some of Atlanta’s most charming neighborhoods. It links up with the BeltLine and PATH trails, making it easy to customize your route.
It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of city views, public art, and shady green sections to cruise through without heavy traffic interference.
Best trails for bike touring vacations
If you're bringing your bike to Atlanta as part of a longer vacation, you’re probably looking for multi-day rides, connected trails, and safe routes with a little variety. Atlanta delivers on all fronts. Here's how to plan a memorable bike touring vacation through the city and beyond.
PATH Foundation Trails
The PATH Foundation has built more than 300 miles of off-road trails around Atlanta and North Georgia. These trails connect city parks, suburban greenways, and scenic countryside—all perfect for bike touring. Top picks include:
South River Trail: Connects Atlanta to Stonecrest through quiet woods and suburbs
Stone Mountain Trail: 19-mile route from downtown Atlanta to Stone Mountain Park
Chastain Park Trail: A relaxed ride through one of the city’s biggest green spaces
Stone Mountain Park
This park is a bike-friendly paradise with a 5-mile loop around the base of the mountain and multiple trails branching off for more adventure. You can ride here as a day trip or plan to camp overnight.
It’s scenic, peaceful, and gives you a bit of everything—nature, history, and elevation changes. Just note that weekends can get crowded, so early rides are best.
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area
This lesser-known gem offers 30+ miles of car-free trails through surreal granite landscapes, forested paths, and lakeside views. Perfect for travelers who want something unique and photogenic.
Make time to visit the Davidson-Arabia Nature Center and ride across the Vaughters’ Farm meadow—it’s like stepping into a postcard.
Tips for cycling in Atlanta
Before you clip in and ride, it pays to know a few local tips to make your Atlanta cycling adventure smoother, safer, and more fun. From terrain quirks to gear suggestions, here’s what savvy bike tourers should keep in mind.
Traffic and bike laws
Atlanta drivers are getting better about sharing the road, but it's still wise to stick to bike lanes and trails when possible. Always use hand signals, wear a helmet (required for riders under 16), and obey all traffic signs.
Apps like Ride with GPS and Komoot offer route overlays with elevation and traffic heatmaps—super helpful in busy areas.
What to pack
Hydration gear: Atlanta’s hot and humid much of the year
Flat kit: Potholes and trail debris can strike anytime
Lights: Required for early morning or dusk rides
Multi-tool: For on-the-go adjustments
When to ride
Spring and fall are the sweet spots for Atlanta cycling. Temperatures hover around the 60s–70s °F, and the trees are either blooming or glowing with fall color. Summer rides are still doable—just aim for early mornings to beat the heat.
If you're planning longer rides, weekdays are generally quieter on trails. Weekends, especially on the BeltLine, can feel like a festival.
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