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 LAS VEGAS
Thinking of bringing your bike on a Vegas vacation? Good call. Beyond the casinos and neon, Las Vegas is packed with incredible cycling routes that mix desert views, red rock canyons, and surprisingly chill urban paths. Whether you’re into smooth pavement or rugged climbs, this city’s got something for every type of rider. From sunrise rides through Red Rock Canyon to downtown greenways with local eats at every turn, let’s break down where to ride, refuel, and make your Vegas bike tour unforgettable.
Cycle through stunning desert landscapes
Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop
Red Rock Canyon is basically cycling nirvana for riders who love scenic views, a little challenge, and zero distractions—except jaw-dropping geology. Just 20 minutes west of the Strip, this 13-mile one-way scenic loop gives you smooth roads, a well-maintained shoulder, and views that’ll make you forget about slot machines entirely. The loop gains about 1,200 feet in elevation, so come ready to climb. But the reward? Epic vistas of red cliffs, desert wildlife, and switchbacks that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
Pro tip: Ride early in the morning to beat the heat and traffic. Cyclists can enter for a small fee or flash an annual pass. And if you're down for a bigger challenge, extend the ride with Blue Diamond Road or loop in the 159 and 160 highways for longer desert adventures.
Nearby routes and expansions
Blue Diamond to Red Rock (20+ miles RT)
Scenic Drive Loop plus Calico Basin offshoot
Route 159 corridor for longer rides
Late afternoon rides for golden hour views
Mountain bike options in Cottonwood Valley
This area is super popular with local cyclists and visiting riders alike, so don’t be shy about striking up a convo at the parking lot or trailhead—you might score some local tips or new friends for the ride. Bring extra water, sunscreen, and a patch kit—the desert doesn’t mess around.
Ride the Vegas valley on two wheels
Downtown, Arts District, and suburban trails
Believe it or not, you can ride through Vegas without weaving through traffic or dodging tourists. The city has been building up its network of bike lanes, shared paths, and greenways. Start downtown and cruise through the Arts District—graffiti walls, murals, and coffee stops galore. This area is ideal for chill exploration and taking in the culture you might not expect from Vegas.
From there, hop on the Las Vegas Wash Trail or the Flamingo Arroyo Trail. These paved, well-maintained routes run through suburban Vegas and link neighborhoods with parks, shopping centers, and even wildlife preserves. They’re flat and fast, so you can rack up miles without even realizing it.
City trail highlights
Las Vegas Wash Trail (20+ miles of paved paths)
Flamingo Arroyo Trail through east Vegas
Downtown murals and outdoor galleries
Springs Preserve detour for desert gardens
Bruce Woodbury Beltway Trail for extended loops
These trails are especially great for families, casual riders, or anyone wanting to spin the legs without high elevation or heavy traffic. You’ll find shaded rest stops, bike repair stations, and even water fountains on some routes. Bonus: these are open year-round, so whether you’re escaping a winter up north or sweating it out in July, Vegas has you covered.
Epic full-day bike adventures
Lake Mead and Hoover Dam routes
Ready for a bigger challenge? Plan a full-day ride out to Lake Mead or even Hoover Dam. Start in Henderson (a bike-friendly suburb southeast of the Strip) and connect to the River Mountains Loop Trail. This 34-mile paved loop offers epic views of the Mojave Desert, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and plenty of high-speed descents if you’ve got the legs for it.
The trail is well-marked and smooth, though expect rolling hills and exposed terrain—again, hydration is key. If you want the iconic experience, ride all the way to Hoover Dam, lock up your bike, and take a quick walk across the dam itself. It’s a surreal contrast: engineering marvel meets raw desert power.
Don’t have time for the full loop? Try a half-loop version or explore nearby trails like the Wetlands Park Trail or the Pittman Wash Trail. Many of these are connected via underpasses and safe crossings, giving you lots of flexibility without ever needing to ride on busy highways.
Popular day tour options
River Mountains Loop Trail full ride (34 miles)
Henderson to Hoover Dam and back (40+ miles)
Lake Mead Lookout detour for photo ops
Pittman Wash Trail for easy suburban ride
Combine Wetlands Park + Wash Trail loop
Vegas might be famous for nightlife, but its cycling scene is a full-on daytime adventure. From sunrise canyon climbs to riverside chill-outs, this is a city that knows how to surprise. Bring your helmet, charge your lights, and get ready to ride into the unexpected.
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