10 Best Bikepacking Routes in the USA

Are you yearning for an adventure that combines the thrill of cycling with the immersive experience of backpacking? The USA offers a wild variety of landscapes perfect for exploring on two wheels—from rugged mountain trails to scenic coastal byways. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, there's a path that matches your pace and passion.

Imagine pedaling through forests, alongside shimmering rivers, and across rugged terrains, all while carrying your essentials on your trusty Ebike. In this guide, we’ll roll through the 10 best bikepacking routes in the USA. Each one promises breathtaking views, remote beauty, and that unbeatable sense of freedom everyone desires. Let’s gear up and ride!

1. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

Spanning over 2,700 miles, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is the crown jewel of American bikepacking. Winding through the spine of the Rockies, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime ride packed with challenge, solitude, and epic scenery. This legendary trail is the best bikepacking route for those craving true wilderness adventure.

Location: Spanning from Banff, Alberta (Canada) to Antelope Wells, New Mexico (USA), traversing through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Where to Camp: Dispersed camping in national forests, primitive campsites, and small-town RV parks along the route.

Highlights:

• Crossing the Continental Divide multiple times and offering spectacular vistas.
  
• Passing through charming small towns for rest and resupply.
• Offering diverse terrain, from rugged mountains to serene valleys.

2. Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a gem for bikepackers, stretching nearly 240 miles along the picturesque Missouri River. As one of the longest rails-to-trails projects in the country, it offers a smooth and scenic ride through charming towns, lush forests, and scenic farmlands.

Perfect for cyclists of all levels, the trail invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Midwest while enjoying a leisurely pace.

Location: Running from Clinton to Machens, Missouri, along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad.

Where to Camp: State parks, private campgrounds, and bike-friendly B&Bs for charging electric bikes.

FURTHER READING: Complete Guide on Exploring Bikepacking with Ebikes

Highlights:

• Featuring stunning river views and diverse wildlife.
• Passing through historic towns with local shops and eateries.
• Offering convenient access to wineries and parks for exploration.

3. Colorado Trail

High elevation, jaw-dropping views, and rugged terrain make the Colorado Trail a true test of endurance and reward. Spanning over 500 miles through the Rocky Mountains, this trail offers one of the best bikepacking routes for thrill-seekers and mountain bikers craving serious adventure. Be ready for steep climbs, dramatic landscapes, and pure alpine magic.

Location: Traversing the state of Colorado from the outskirts of Denver (near Littleton) to Durango in the southwest.

Where to Camp: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry sites are available along the trail, with designated areas for camping.

Highlights:

• Elevations ranging from 5,500 to over 13,000 feet with spectacular vistas.
• Diverse ecosystems, including wildflower-filled meadows and dense forests.
  
• Opportunities for wildlife sightings, including elk, deer, and various bird species.

4. Arizona Trail

Embark on an epic journey across the diverse landscapes of Arizona. Stretching approximately 800 miles from the Mexican border to the Utah state line, this challenging and rewarding route traverses deserts, canyons, mountains, and forests. It offers a unique perspective on the Grand Canyon State.

Prepare for dramatic elevation changes, encounters with unique flora and fauna, and a true test of your resilience as you experience the beauty and solitude of the American Southwest.

Location: From the Mexico border near Sierra Vista to the Utah border near Kanab, Arizona.

Where to Camp: Camping along the Arizona Trail requires careful consideration of water availability and desert conditions.

Highlights:

• Crossing five distinct ecosystems.
• Featuring saguaro-dotted desert trails and red rock vistas.
• Experiencing high-altitude riding through pine-covered mountains.

5. Oregon Outback

The Oregon Outback is a remote, 360-mile gravel route that slices through the state’s high desert. It’s one of the best bikepacking routes for riders chasing wide-open skies, solitude, and rugged charm.

Location: Running from Klamath Falls to the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.

Where to Camp: Remote forest roads, BLM land, and small-town campgrounds.

Highlights:

• Featuring historic trestle bridges and railbeds.
• Passing through diverse landscapes, including volcanic terrain and lush forests.
• Offering breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and expansive deserts.

6. Vermont’s Green Mountain Gravel Growler

This roughly 250-mile loop primarily utilizes scenic gravel roads, winding through the picturesque Green Mountains, past covered bridges, and alongside flowing rivers. This unique bikepacking adventure blends natural beauty with cultural flavor. You can indulge in local breweries and vibrant fall foliage (if timed right).

Location: A loop in central Vermont, starting and ending in Waterbury.

Where to Camp: State park campgrounds, farm stays, and brewery-adjacent lodging.

Highlights:

• Charming New England towns and culture.
• Visits to 20+ local craft breweries.
• Vibrant fall foliage (seasonal).

7. The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning 469-mile scenic byway that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. Known as "America's Favorite Drive", this bikepacking route invites cyclists to explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and various wildflowers. It’s an unforgettable journey that showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Location: Running along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

Where to Camp: Numerous campgrounds and picnic areas are available along the parkway, including designated camping spots in national parks.

Highlights:

• Panoramic vistas and numerous overlooks for stunning photographs.
• Rich in cultural history with access to visitor centers and historic sites.
• Smooth and winding pavement perfect for bike touring.

8. Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route

The Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route is an exhilarating 500-mile journey through the heart of Idaho’s rugged wilderness. This unique trail combines stunning mountain views with the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs. It is a perfect adventure for bikepackers seeking both thrill and relaxation.

Location: Stretching from Boise to Idaho City, looping through the Sawtooth National Forest.

Where to Camp: Forest service campgrounds, primitive hot spring sites, and dispersed backcountry spots.

Highlights:

• Over 20 soakable hot springs along the route.
• Quiet gravel roads through dramatic wilderness.
• Breathtaking views of the Sawtooth and Salmon River Mountains.

9. San Juan Hut System

This network of interconnected huts offers shelter and basic amenities, allowing you to traverse stunning mountain terrain with less gear to carry. Enjoy challenging rides and comfortable overnight stays in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

Location: From Telluride, Colorado, to Moab, Utah (or reverse).

Where to Camp: Huts are available for overnight stays, with designated camping areas nearby.

Highlights:

• Challenging mountain biking.
  
• Fully supported hut-to-hut experience.
• Spectacular mountain and canyon landscapes.

10. Lost Coast Trail

This Trail is a captivating 25-mile route along California’s rugged coastline, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. This remote trail offers an extraordinary bikepacking trip, combining stunning ocean views with lush forests. Ideal for adventurous spirits, it invites you to explore one of the state's most untouched natural landscapes.

Location: Located in Humboldt County, Northern California, within the King Range National Conservation Area.

Where to Camp: Primitive beach campsites, BLM land, and nearby forest clearings.

Highlights:

• Dramatic coastal cliffs and black sand beaches.
• Diverse terrain and vegetation.
  
• Hidden coves for exploration.

Conclusion

These 10 best bikepacking routes across the USA offer unforgettable adventures for all cyclists. As you plan your two-wheeled expedition on these incredible journeys, remember the importance of a comprehensive bikepacking checklist to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. So, gear up, choose your route, and get ready for a joyful ride.