From Rails to Trails: The Best Bicycle Routes in the West

From historic rails-to-trails locations to challenging natural terrain, you’re in for a treat on these beloved cycling trails. On this wild ride through the West, you’ll pass through wildlife-viewing areas, waterfront rest stops and winding paths steeped in local history. The next time you head west, take the scenic route on one of these top rails to trails locations.

Electrify your workout at the Pacific Gas and Electric Greenbelt

Gear up for a family affair in Stockton, California. Known locally as the PG&E trail, The Pacific Gas and Electric Greenbelt is a smooth route and one of the best bike trails in California for cyclists of all ages. This asphalt trail runs for 2.6 miles along a utility corridor, but those looking to stretch their mileage can connect to the French Camp Slough Trail to follow the scenic San Joaquin River. Couples outing? The PG&E trail is a perfect weekend adventure, as you’ll never be too far away from Stockton hotels and your favorite San Joaquin Valley wineries.

Explore historic railways and city sights on the Burke-Gilman Trail

The Burke-Gilman Trail, a popular route in Seattle, was created in the 1970s and was one of the first rails-to-trails locations in the country.

Explore Seattle, and one of Washington’s first rails to trails locations, on the Burke-Gilman Trail. What began as the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway, later acquired by Northern Pacific, has been transformed into one of King County’s most beloved recreational paths. Cyclists can pedal through Seattle neighborhoods, nature preserves and outlying suburbs. Prepare to work up a sweat along dips and curves. This 27-mile trail is busy with commuter cyclists and visitors alike.

See natural and architectural wonders on the Lake Mead Historic Railroad Trail

If you’ve only experienced scenic Lake Mead in Nevada by car, make a date for an outdoor adventure to remember. Just a few minutes from Boulder City, you’ll find access to Lake Mead’s Historic Railroad Trail. Opt for a mountain bike to tackle challenging rails to trails locations that wind through tunnels and offer an incredible glimpse into railway history. Pack a picnic and take a camera. You’ll want to linger when the water comes into view.

Be one with the wilderness at Grand Teton National Park

For those needing a rest from pedaling, take a break from Wyoming’s North Pathway by visiting the Sculpture Trail at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Photo credit: National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Take in panoramic mountain views as you pedal along Wyoming’s North Pathway inside Grand Teton National Park. The 20-mile leisurely route begins in Jackson and takes you through fields of sagebrush as you cycle north to the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. The family-friendly rails-to-trails locations offer smooth asphalt and are surrounded by wildlife roaming grounds. At the 3-mile point, take a detour to visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art to explore renowned art and a sculpture trail.

Cycle across state lines at the North Idaho Centennial Trail

The North Idaho Centennial Trail is a multi-use recreational trail system featuring a lake.

The North Idaho Centennial Trail offers 24 miles of scenic pathways for cyclists and hikers. From the Washington-Idaho state line, cycle your way into Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, through these paved rails to trails locations. You’ll take in mesmerizing scenery along the Spokane River and Lake Coeur d’Alene and find signs along the route explaining the trail’s history. If you're staying in the area during the spring and summer, keep an eye out for wildflowers.

Wind through mining country on the Historic Pacific Union Trail

Perhaps the first precious metals that come to mind when you think of Park City, Utah, are the gold, silver and bronze kind coveted by Olympic athletes. Yet the Historic Pacific Union Trail reveals another prize-winning history: silver mined in Park City’s mountains. The 28-mile rails to trails location weaves through coal and silver country, offering close-up views of wildflowers, wildlife and hillsides. Take a day trip from Salt Lake City and start your cycling adventure in Coalville; then wind your way to Park City for the finish line.