Fall bike rides can reward you with spectacular views of foliage at its finest while allowing you to enjoy your journey without suffering through the congestion that’s often brought on by the crowds of spring and summer. Many riders agree that there’s no better time to get peddling. Here, in no particular order, are some of the best trails to hit when the dog days have ended but the bitter cold of winter hasn’t yet descended.
1. Lake Champlain Bikeways
Taking an autumn ride on any portion of this 1,600-mile trail virtually guarantees you an eye-popping view of fall colors. On this bikeway, you can traverse peaceful country roads, peddle through picture-perfect New England villages, and take in numerous historic sites. Riding on a bike for pavement and trails will help ensure that you can access all of the beauty this route has to offer.
2. Shenandoah Valley
Virginia’s most famous landscape is particularly lovely in the fall, when the Shenandoah Valley is bursting with spectacular autumn scenery. Featuring everything from family-friendly greenway paths to challenging mountain trails, the area has something to offer every type of cyclist. There’s even an annual festival dedicated to two-wheeled rides through the foliage.
3. Ohio to Erie Trail
The small towns of Ohio can be particularly pretty in fall, and this trail along railways and canals will take you through some real charmers. Because there are plenty of lodging and dining options along the way, you can plan to ride this bikeway for several days if you’re up for it, and there are detailed websites dedicated to helping you get the most out of your trek.
4. Kebler Pass
It’s not only the Northeast and Midwest that can give you an eyeful of natural beauty in the fall. Cycling Colorado’s Kebler Pass will reward you with breathtaking views of aspen trees as their leaves turn to a nearly supernatural shade of gold. You’ll want to hit this trail early in the season, however, as the path shuts down in November.
5. South Bay Bicycle Trail
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that seaside biking is only a summertime activity. In fact, the combination of milder coastal temperatures and reduced visitor traffic can make autumn the ideal time to ride along the Pacific. The 22-mile length of this Southern California trail makes it a great route to traverse on an e-bike, so you can conserve energy and enjoy the nearly unbroken views of the waterfront. As a bonus, if you’re still learning how to ride an electric bike then heading out on a fall weekday can help you get the hang of it while fewer people are lining the trail.
When it comes to taking in gorgeous scenery and enjoying milder ride temperatures, heading out on a cycling trek once summer ends can provide you with an exceptional experience. If you’re ready to hit the road this fall, search online to find the best bike for trails and gear up for your amazing autumn ride.
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