Do you love the feeling of the wind in your face as you pedal through breathtaking landscapes? From coastal roads with ocean views to forested paths with wildlife encounters, scenic biking trails offer more than just exercise—they provide a way to connect with nature and explore new places. Let's discover the best ways to find the most picturesque routes and ensure your next unforgettable ride.

In today's digital age, finding an excellent biking trail is easier than ever. Several apps and websites are dedicated to helping cyclists locate routes tailored to their preferences.

Komoot

Great for discovering off-the-beaten-path trails with detailed elevation maps and user reviews.

Strava

It is ideal for tracking rides and finding popular routes used by local cyclists.

Trailforks

Best for mountain bikers looking for trails categorized by difficulty.

Ride With GPS

It helps plan and navigate scenic long-distance routes.

Look for user-uploaded photos and reviews to get a real feel for the trail’s scenery before heading out.

Many of the world's most scenic biking trails are in national and state parks. These areas often feature well-maintained paths, stunning viewpoints, and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Going-To-The-Sun Road (Glacier National Park, USA)

A breathtaking climb through the Rocky Mountains.

Carriage Roads (Acadia National Park, USA)

Smooth gravel paths winding through lush forests and lakes.

Loire Valley Bike Path (France)

A charming route passes through vineyards and historic châteaux.

Visit official park websites for maps, trail conditions, and seasonal closures to plan your trip effectively.

Who knows the best trails better than the locals? Cycling communities are an invaluable resource when searching for the most scenic paths.

Join Facebook groups or subreddits dedicated to biking in your area.

Visit local bike shops—owners and staff often have insider tips on beautiful routes.

Attend group rides hosted by cycling clubs to explore new scenic areas.

Some cycling clubs have route libraries with downloadable GPS tracks for stunning rides.

Rail trails are former railway lines that have been repurposed into multi-use paths. They offer smooth rides through picturesque landscapes, often surrounded by rolling hills, rivers, and charming small towns.

Katy Trail (Missouri, USA)

A 240-mile trail along the Missouri River with beautiful countryside views.

Great Allegheny Passage (USA)

A stunning ride through Appalachian valleys and tunnels.

Otago Central Rail Trail (New Zealand)

A breathtaking journey through New Zealand’s South Island.

Rail trails are usually well-maintained and have a gentle grade, making them great for riders of all skill levels.

If you love road cycling, certain highways and byways are famous for their scenic beauty. These routes often feature panoramic mountain views, coastal cliffs, or rolling countryside.

Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)

Stunning ocean views and rugged cliffs.

Blue Ridge Parkway (USA)

A dreamy route through the Appalachian Mountains.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

A coastal ride with jaw-dropping views of the Twelve Apostles.

Many scenic highways have designated bike lanes or cycling-friendly sections—always check local guidelines before setting off.

Some of the world's most beautiful biking trails pass through UNESCO-listed sites, offering historical significance and stunning landscapes.

Danube Cycle Path (Europe)

Travels through multiple countries, passing castles, vineyards, and medieval towns.

Lofoten Islands (Norway)

Dramatic fjords, Arctic beaches, and charming fishing villages.

Mekong Delta (Vietnam)

A vibrant ride through rice paddies and floating markets.

Research guided biking tours in these regions for added cultural insights and safety.

Urban cycling can be scenic, too! Some cities are designed with extensive bike paths that uniquely allow riders to experience the local culture, architecture, and green spaces.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Picturesque canals, historic buildings, and dedicated bike lanes are everywhere.

Copenhagen, Denmark

A cyclist’s paradise with well-planned routes and waterfront views.

Portland, Oregon, USA

Beautiful riverfront trails and lush green parks.

Many cities have bike-sharing programs, making it easy to explore scenic spots without bringing your bike.

The best time to ride a scenic trail often depends on the season. Some routes come alive with cherry blossoms in spring, while others boast fiery foliage in autumn.

Spring

Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path (Japan) – A magical ride beneath blooming cherry blossoms.

Summer

Sun Road (Montana, USA) – Alpine lakes and wildflowers are at their peak.

Autumn

The Cabot Trail (Canada) – A breathtaking mix of fall colours and coastal scenery.

Winter

Central Park Loop (New York City) – A snowy, peaceful ride through an iconic park.

Check local weather and seasonal recommendations to ensure the best experience.

Sometimes, the most scenic biking trails aren’t the most famous ones. Travelers and fellow cyclists often discover hidden gems that aren’t widely advertised.

Hostels and guesthouses—staff and fellow guests often share valuable biking tips.

Travel blogs and vlogs—search for niche cyclists documenting their favourite scenic routes.

Small villages—ask locals if they have favourite biking paths with great views.

Keep an open mind and be willing to explore—you never know when you’ll stumble upon a breathtaking trail.

Finding the most scenic biking trails requires research, adventure, and local insight. Whether you're cruising along a coastal highway, weaving through a dense forest, or pedalling past ancient ruins, every ride has the potential to be a breathtaking experience.

So, grab your bike, map out your following route, and get ready to discover the world's most stunning cycling destinations. Where will your next adventure take you?