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.
WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC BIKEPACKING TRAILS IN NORTH AMERICA?
Bikepacking in North America offers an unrivaled blend of adventure and scenery, with trails that cross deserts, mountains, forests, and coastlines. From iconic long-distance routes like the Great Divide to hidden gems tucked into national forests, these trails cater to both seasoned endurance riders and weekend explorers. This article highlights the most scenic bikepacking trails in North America, examining their landscapes, challenges, and cultural significance to help riders choose their next unforgettable adventure.
Great Divide Mountain Bike Route
Spanning over 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles) from Banff, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is the crown jewel of North American bikepacking. It is the longest off-pavement cycling route in the world, weaving through the Rocky Mountains and across five U.S. states. Riders encounter a stunning variety of scenery: alpine meadows, dense forests, arid deserts, and remote mountain passes.
Why it’s scenic
The Great Divide offers constant visual drama. Cyclists traverse the Continental Divide dozens of times, each crossing unveiling new ecosystems and breathtaking vistas. Encounters with wildlife, star-filled skies in remote regions, and cultural immersion in small mountain towns add to the richness of the journey.
Challenges along the route
The route is demanding, with high-altitude climbs, unpredictable weather, and extended stretches between resupply points. Riders need to be self-sufficient, carrying camping gear, water filtration, and repair tools. Completing the route requires weeks of endurance and mental resilience, making it a rite of passage for serious bikepackers.
4,000 km route across diverse terrain.
Crosses the Continental Divide multiple times.
Highlights include Banff, Colorado Rockies, and New Mexico deserts.
Requires advanced planning and fitness.
For those seeking the ultimate blend of challenge and scenery, the Great Divide stands as North America’s most iconic bikepacking adventure.
Pacific Coast and coastal routes
The Pacific Coast route stretches along the western shoreline of North America, from British Columbia through Washington, Oregon, and California. Covering roughly 3,000 kilometers (1,800 miles), it offers cyclists endless ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Unlike remote wilderness routes, this trail balances natural beauty with frequent access to services.
Why it’s scenic
Few routes in the world rival the Pacific Coast for sheer oceanfront cycling. Riders pedal alongside waves crashing against rocky shores, pass through redwood forests, and climb winding roads that reveal sweeping views of the Pacific. The cultural experience is equally rewarding, with opportunities to explore vibrant coastal communities and sample local seafood.
Key highlights
Cyclists often cite Oregon’s rugged coastline, California’s Big Sur, and Washington’s Olympic Peninsula as standout sections. These areas combine challenging climbs with unforgettable views, making them bucket-list experiences for bikepackers.
Ocean vistas stretching thousands of kilometers.
Highlights include Big Sur, Oregon coast, and Olympic Peninsula.
Cultural richness with towns, parks, and local cuisine.
Easier logistics due to regular services and campgrounds.
The Pacific Coast route is ideal for cyclists seeking scenic beauty without venturing too far from civilization. It balances accessibility with some of the most awe-inspiring coastal landscapes on the continent.
Other iconic North American trails
Beyond the Great Divide and Pacific Coast, North America offers dozens of scenic bikepacking trails catering to diverse preferences. From desert landscapes to forested wilderness, these routes reveal the continent’s natural diversity and cultural heritage.
Arizona Trail
Stretching from Mexico to Utah, the Arizona Trail crosses deserts, mountains, and the Grand Canyon itself. The variety of ecosystems—from cactus-filled expanses to alpine forests—make it one of the most visually dramatic bikepacking experiences.
Colorado Trail
At 800 kilometers (500 miles), the Colorado Trail is shorter but incredibly demanding. It showcases high-altitude alpine passes, wildflower meadows, and remote wilderness areas. The scenery is stunning, but the technical terrain challenges even experienced riders.
East Coast Greenway
Unlike rugged wilderness routes, the East Coast Greenway connects major cities from Maine to Florida via 5,000 kilometers (3,000 miles) of paths and quiet roads. Riders experience a mix of coastal views, historical landmarks, and cultural diversity along the Atlantic seaboard.
Arizona Trail: desert and canyon landscapes.
Colorado Trail: alpine scenery with technical challenge.
East Coast Greenway: cultural and coastal experiences.
Numerous shorter regional loops across Canada and the U.S.
These trails demonstrate the vast range of scenic options for bikepackers, from remote wilderness expeditions to accessible multi-day cultural journeys.
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