Road biking is a fantastic way to explore nature, improve your fitness, and enjoy the open road. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, finding the perfect road bike trail can make all the difference in your riding experience. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best road bike trails worldwide, offering a range of scenic views, challenges, and excitement for every level of rider.
Why Road Bike Trails Matter
Choosing the right road bike trail is essential for several reasons. Trails can differ in terrain, difficulty, length, and scenery. While some may offer gentle, flat paths, others may have steep climbs and sharp turns that test your endurance and skills. Knowing what kind of trail you prefer can ensure a more enjoyable and safe ride.
When selecting a trail, consider the following factors:
Distance: How far are you willing to ride?
Elevation: Do you prefer flat rides, rolling hills, or challenging climbs?
Scenery: Do you want to ride through urban settings, forests, or along coastlines?
Difficulty level: Is the trail suitable for beginners or more advanced cyclists?
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1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
The Pacific Coast Highway (also known as California State Route 1) is one of the most iconic road bike trails in the world. Spanning more than 600 miles along the California coastline, it offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and charming beach towns.
Distance: Over 600 miles
Terrain: Rolling hills, coastal views, and moderate climbs
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Highlights: Big Sur, Malibu, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz
Cyclists can choose shorter sections of the highway if they’re not up for the full route. The stretch between San Francisco and Santa Cruz is particularly popular, offering a mix of ocean views and forested paths.
2. Great Ocean Road (Victoria, Australia)
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a must-ride for any road cycling enthusiast. Stretching for 151 miles along the southeastern coast of Victoria, this route offers stunning ocean views, rainforest segments, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations.
Distance: 151 miles
Terrain: Coastal roads, rolling hills, and some flat sections
Difficulty: Intermediate
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park, and quaint seaside towns
Riders will enjoy the combination of long, flat stretches and short climbs, making it accessible to cyclists of varying skill levels.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia, USA)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a dream come true for road bikers who love mountain scenery and challenging climbs. This 469-mile scenic route meanders through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas, vibrant foliage, and plenty of elevation.
Distance: 469 miles
Terrain: Mountain roads with steep climbs and descents
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and countless scenic overlooks
With over 50,000 feet of climbing, the Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal for experienced cyclists looking for a physical challenge. The route is best enjoyed in the fall when the leaves change color, creating a stunning backdrop.
4. Route des Grandes Alpes (France)
For those seeking a European road biking adventure, the Route des Grandes Alpes in France offers an unforgettable experience. This 425-mile trail crosses the French Alps, taking riders through some of the most famous mountain passes featured in the Tour de France.
Distance: 425 miles
Terrain: Mountain passes, sharp climbs, and steep descents
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: Col du Galibier, Col de la Madeleine, and Mont Blanc views
Riding this trail allows you to conquer some of the most iconic cycling climbs in the world, including the Col du Galibier and Col de la Bonette. Be prepared for high altitudes and significant changes in elevation.
5. Lake Taupo Loop (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s Lake Taupo Loop is a popular road cycling route that circles the largest lake in the country. This 97-mile trail provides stunning views of Lake Taupo and the surrounding mountains, making it one of the most scenic rides in the Southern Hemisphere.
Distance: 97 miles
Terrain: Rolling hills, lake views, and open roads
Difficulty: Intermediate
Highlights: Lake Taupo, Tongariro National Park, and geothermal features
The ride is relatively easy-going, with only a few moderate climbs, making it accessible to most cyclists. It’s also home to the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, New Zealand’s largest cycling event.
6. Ring of Kerry (Ireland)
The Ring of Kerry in southwestern Ireland is a stunning 111-mile loop that offers coastal views, charming villages, and lush green landscapes. The narrow, winding roads provide a peaceful and scenic cycling experience.
Distance: 111 miles
Terrain: Coastal roads, rolling hills, and some short climbs
Difficulty: Intermediate
Highlights: Killarney National Park, Gap of Dunloe, and Skellig Michael
Riders can explore the quainttowns of Killarney, Kenmare, and Sneem, or take side trips to visit ancient ruins and historic castles. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack for all conditions.
7. Amalfi Coast Road (Italy)
Italy’s Amalfi Coast Road is as challenging as it is beautiful. Stretching for 30 miles along the southwestern coastline of Italy, this road offers dramatic cliffside views, winding roads, and picturesque towns.
Distance: 30 miles
Terrain: Coastal cliffs, sharp turns, and short climbs
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Highlights: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
The Amalfi Coast is known for its narrow, twisting roads, which require strong bike handling skills. Cyclists are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the opportunity to explore charming Italian villages.
8. Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada)
The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia is a 185-mile loop that takes cyclists through Cape Breton Island’s rugged coastal scenery, charming fishing villages, and lush forests. The trail includes some challenging climbs, but the stunning views make it worth the effort.
Distance: 185 miles
Terrain: Coastal roads, rolling hills, and steep climbs
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
Highlights: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Pleasant Bay, and Ingonish Beach
Cyclists should be prepared for a mix of flat sections and steep climbs. The northern part of the trail offers some of the most dramatic views, especially in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
9. Mallorca Road Cycling Routes (Spain)
Mallorca, a Mediterranean island in Spain, is a road cycling paradise with a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. Cyclists can explore coastal roads, mountain passes, and rural villages.
Distance: Various routes, with the longest being 70-100 miles
Terrain: Coastal roads, mountain climbs, and rural countryside
Difficulty: Beginner to advanced
Highlights: Cap de Formentor, Serra de Tramuntana, and traditional Mallorcan villages
Mallorca’s mild climate and smooth roads make it a year-round cycling destination. The island is also a favorite training spot for professional cyclists, so you might find yourself riding alongside some of the world’s top athletes.
10. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana, USA)
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic and challenging road bike trails in the United States. The 50-mile trail offers steep climbs, narrow roads, and incredible views of the Rocky Mountains.
Distance: 50 miles
Terrain: Mountain roads, steep climbs, and sharp turns
Difficulty: Advanced
Highlights: Logan Pass, Saint Mary Lake, and Glacier National Park’s wildlife
The road is only open to cyclists during certain times of the year, typically from late June to mid-September. The climb to Logan Pass is demanding but rewards riders with awe-inspiring views at the summit.
Conclusion
Choosing the right road bike trail depends on your skill level, preferences, and location. Whether you’re looking for a coastal ride, a challenging mountain climb, or a leisurely loop around a lake, these trails offer something for everyone. Remember to always plan ahead, pack necessary gear, and prioritize safety while riding. Exploring these trails will not only improve your cycling skills but also give you unforgettable experiences and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the world around you. Happy cycling!