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From the rocky mountain trails of Colorado to the lush forests of Oregon, this list has something for everyone!
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting into the sport, bikepacking can be a fun and rewarding way to explore new areas. Bikepacking is essentially camping on a bike – you ride from point A to point B, carrying all of your gear with you, and set up camp at the end of the day. This exciting and challenging activity can be done anywhere in the world, but the United States offers some of the best bikepacking routes around.
Related: Bikepacking Tips For Beginners | How to get started?
In this blog post, we’ve compiled the 7 best bikepacking routes in the US, all of which are perfect for bikepackers of all abilities. Each one offers something different, from stunning coastal views to challenging mountain climbs. There are endless possibilities when it comes to bikepacking routes. So pack your bikepacking gear and get ready to explore some of America’s best bikepacking routes!
Here are the 7 best bikepacking routes in the U.S. you need to check out!
1) Colorado Trail
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The first bikepacking route we'll explore is the 500-mile long Colorado Trail. This epic trail winds its way through the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views and challenging terrain. The best time to ride this route is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the trails are dry. The Colorado Trail is a difficult route, with steep climbs and rugged terrain. So if you're looking for a challenge, this is the route for you! There are no official campsites along the Colorado Trail, so be sure to bring a tent and plenty of food and water.
Click here for more information on the Colorado Trail.
2) The Great Allegheny Passage
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Next on our list is the Great Allegheny Passage. This route spans 150 miles and winds its way through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, making it the perfect choice for a weekend adventure. It's considered to be one of the best bikepacking routes in the U.S. for beginner bikepackers, as it's mostly flat and easy to follow. The best time to ride this route is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. Be sure to stop at one of the many charming towns along the way.
Click here for more information on The Great Allegheny Passage.
3) Oregon Coast
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If you're looking for a scenic bikepacking route with plenty of coastline views, the Oregon Coast is perfect for you. This 363-mile route takes backpackers on a journey along the Pacific Ocean, and it's considered to be one of the most beautiful routes in the country. The best time to ride this route is during the summer when the weather is warm and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the towns you'll be passing through.
Click here for more information on the Oregon Coast route.
4) Ojito BLM Area, New Mexico
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The Ojito Wilderness area in New Mexico is a great place to go bikepacking if you're looking for an adventure. This remote and rugged area is known for its high-desert landscape, which makes for some challenging riding. The Ojito BLM Area in New Mexico offers a unique and diverse landscape, complete with canyons, sandstone cliffs, and volcanic features. This 100-mile route is best ridden between October and May when the weather is cooler. This lesser-known bikepacking route is perfect for those who want to explore new areas.
Click here for more information on the Ojito BLM Area route.
5) Oregon Timber Trail
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If you're looking for a route with plenty of elevation changes, the Oregon Timber Trail is perfect for you. This 600-mile route takes cyclists on an epic journey through the forests and mountains of Oregon. The trail features everything from smooth singletrack to technical downhill sections, so it's perfect for riders of all abilities. You will also get to experience some of the best scenery that Oregon has to offer. This bikepacking route is perfect for riders of all abilities, with everything from smooth singletrack to technical downhill sections.
Click here for more information on the Oregon Timber Trail.
6) Virginia Mountain Bike Trail
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If you're looking for a challenging bikepacking route, look no further than the Virginia Mountain Bike Trail. This trail system covers over 850 miles of singletrack, doubletrack, and gravel roads in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. The trails are well-maintained and offer plenty of challenges for experienced riders. This bikepacking route traverses some of the most rugged and mountainous terrains in Virginia, making it perfect for experienced cyclists. You'll be treated to stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains as you ride, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the wilderness areas.
Click here for more information on the Virginia Mountain Bike Trail.
7) The Arizona National Scenic Trail
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Last on our list is the Arizona National Scenic Trail. This bikepacking route is located in the beautiful state of Arizona, and it offers cyclists a chance to explore some of the most stunning desert landscapes in the country. The trail is over 800 miles long, making it perfect for experienced riders who want to spend an extended period of time cycling through the wilderness. The route passes through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country, including deserts, canyons, and forests. The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of challenges for experienced riders.
Click here for more information on the Arizona National Scenic Trail.
Conclusion
There you have it! These are the 7 best bikepacking routes in the US that are sure to impress this year. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there's something for everyone on this list. We hope you'll get a chance to check them out for yourself. As always, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to let us know in the comments section below. Happy trails!
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