Editorial ranking 237 parks ranked
Best national parks for biking
Our ranked pick of the best US national parks for biking, ordered by Experience Score.
Photo: NPS photo/Gordon Dietzman
Ranked by how much each unit documents for biking in official NPS data (matching activities and topics, plus whether our editors featured it), with the Experience Score as the tie-breaker. 3 units are level at the top on biking relevance; the leader is then decided on Experience Score, so read the top group as a shortlist, not one runaway winner. No park pays for placement.
NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanNational River & Recreation Area
Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: Extensive biking corridors including road and mountain biking options along 72 miles of river
NPSNational Historic Trail
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: 80-plus miles of walkable trail open to hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers
NPS PhotoNational Battlefield
Petersburg National Battlefield
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: The four-mile, eight-stop Eastern Front auto tour road, which traces the siege lines at a walkable, bikeable pace
Gary HartleyNational Park & Preserve
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
West Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and road biking on documented park terrain within a dramatic gorge landscape
NPS photo/Will ElderNational Recreation Area
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and front-country hiking with Pacific headlands views
NPS Photo/Cecilia LynchPark
Prince William Forest Park
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Multiple biking modes: dedicated mountain biking and road biking routes on the same visit
NPS photoPark
Civil War Defenses of Washington
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Biking routes connecting sites through DC, Maryland, and Virginia on road and trail
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Keweenaw National Historical Park
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: Road and mountain biking routes through a historically layered landscape
NPS PhotoNational Recreation Area
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Oklahoma
Why it ranks for biking: Horseback riding and mountain biking trails through Arbuckle terrain
NPSNational Park
Death Valley National Park
California, Nevada
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and road biking on a network of paved and unpaved routes with dramatic elevation changes
NPSNational Preserve
Mojave National Preserve
California
Why it ranks for biking: Its appeal lies in open exploration for desert travelers, stargazers, dispersed campers, off-road drivers, and mountain bikers seeking Mojave Desert character away from denser crowds.
NPS Photo / Neal LewisNational Park
Shenandoah National Park
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Shenandoah National Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Monument
Colorado National Monument
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking on Rim Rock Drive with sustained elevation and open desert views
NPSNational Recreation Area
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking on dedicated multi-use routes through the Santa Monica Mountains
NPS PhotoNational Monument
Fort Monroe National Monument
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Walking or biking the perimeter of the massive historic moat and stone fortifications
NPS photo / Michael B. ShaverNational Monument
Governors Island National Monument
New York
Why it ranks for biking: Car-free biking around the entire island with unobstructed skyline views
NPS photo/ R. RichmanNational Monument
Capulin Volcano National Monument
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Post-4:30 p.m.
NPS PhotoNational Historic Trail
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Hawaii
Why it ranks for biking: The documented breadth of available activities is notable, ranging from mountain biking and SCUBA diving to birdwatching.
NPS Photo / H. RichardsNational Historical Reserve
Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Opportunities include hiking bluff trails above the Salish Sea, kayaking, birdwatching, stargazing, cycling farm roads, and camping.
NPS Photo / Steve OlsonNational and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks
California
Why it ranks for biking: Documented activities cater to a broad spectrum of users, including hikers, families, paddlers, cyclists, equestrians, surfers, and wildlife watchers.
Pride of Baltimore, Inc.National Historic Trail
Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: This unit excels for those drawn to historical immersion, particularly paddlers, cyclists, and families seeking an educational outdoor experience.
National Historic Trail
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
Arizona, California
Why it ranks for biking: Multi-modal access including hiking, road biking, mountain biking, and scenic driving
NPS imageNational Seashore
Cape Cod National Seashore
Massachusetts
Why it ranks for biking: Dedicated biking trails through coastal pine and scrub landscape
NPS/DoggrellNational Seashore
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Florida, Mississippi
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking, mountain biking and road biking for this national seashore.
NPS Matthew SwitzerNational Recreation Area
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking, mountain biking and road biking.
NPS / Jacob W. FrankNational Park
Yellowstone National Park
Idaho, Montana, Wyoming
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Yellowstone National Park covers biking, mountain biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Preserve
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Alabama
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking, mountain biking and road biking for this national preserve.
NPS PhotoNational Preserve
Valles Caldera National Preserve
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking, mountain biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Reserve
City Of Rocks National Reserve
Idaho
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and scenic auto touring through the dramatic spire landscape
NPS photoPark
National Parks of New York Harbor
New York
Why it ranks for biking: Visitors can kayak past Ellis Island, camp on an urban beach, fish in saltwater, watch live theater, stargaze, or bike through historic forts.
NPS PhotoParkway
Natchez Trace Parkway
Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee
Why it ranks for biking: 444 miles of no-commercial-traffic road ideal for road cycling and scenic driving across three states
NPS Antietam/BBaraczNational Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield
Maryland
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking the tour route through preserved 19th-century Maryland farmland
BLMRecreation Area
Moab Field Office (BLM)
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: World-renowned mountain biking on slickrock and canyon terrain
NPS photoNational Historical Park
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
District of Columbia, Maryland, West Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: 185-mile flat towpath open 365 days a year for biking, hiking, and horseback riding
NPS Photo/MekowNational Military Park
Shiloh National Military Park
Tennessee, Mississippi
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking the low-traffic battlefield loop with sustained historical context
NPS Photo / Buddy SecorNational Battlefield
Stones River National Battlefield
Tennessee
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the tour road as a flat, manageable route with historical interpretation built in
Charles DischingerNational Battlefield
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Missouri
Why it ranks for biking: Cyclists will discover a low-traffic road biking loop well suited for touring.
Bob Wick, BLMRecreation Area
Campbell Tract Special Recreation Management Area
Alaska
Why it ranks for biking: Winter grooming that supports skate skiing, skijoring, snowshoeing, and fat tire biking simultaneously
NPS PhotoPark
National Mall and Memorial Parks
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and road biking the full length of the Mall and surrounding paths
NPS Photo/Linda WilliamsPart of Colonial National Historical Park
Yorktown Battlefield Part of Colonial National Historical Park
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Auto tour route connecting key battlefield positions, accessible by car or bike
NPS PhotoNational Military Park
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Georgia, Tennessee
Why it ranks for biking: Scenic auto and bike tour routes through the Chickamauga Battlefield with monuments and artillery in place
NPS Photo/Miguel MarquezPark
Anacostia Park
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking and cycling routes through the park corridor
NPS Photo/Andrew ShireyNational Historical Park
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Biking or driving the full mission trail connecting all four UNESCO-designated sites
NPS PhotoNational Military Park
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Arkansas
Why it ranks for biking: Hiking and road biking options through Ozark Plateau landscape
NPS PhotoNational Historic Site
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: Biking access, with the site reachable by road bike from the broader Gettysburg area
NPSMemorial Parkway
George Washington Memorial Parkway
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Scenic road biking and cycling along a dedicated multi-use trail corridor with Potomac River access
Tom WilsonNational Battlefield Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking opportunities through a large, traffic-managed battlefield landscape
NPS / Tom EngbergNational Historical Park
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
Ohio
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking opportunities in and around the park's southern Ohio landscape
NPS PhotoPark
Fort Dupont Park
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and recreational cycling trails through 361 acres of urban woodland
NPSPark
LBJ Memorial Grove on the Potomac
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Road biking and trail biking connections into the George Washington Memorial Parkway network
NPS Photo/Andrew CattoirNational Recreation Area
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Arizona, Nevada
Why it ranks for biking: The experience here depends entirely on personal equipment: a motorboat, kayak, fishing rod, mountain bike, or hiking boots.
NPS Photo/ Craig StocksNational Monument
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Backcountry campers and road cyclists prepared for remote, sun-exposed routes will thrive.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Petrified Forest National Park
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Scenic park road driveable and bikeable end-to-end as a self-guided experience
NPS PhotoNational Recreation Area
Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking terrain shaped by the same canyon geology that defines the landscape
NPS Photo / D.J. ReiserNational Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Ohio
Why it ranks for biking: Cycling or walking the historic Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail along the Cuyahoga River
NPS photo/Jennifer ClarkNational Park
Gateway Arch National Park
Missouri
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and picnicking along the St.
NPS PhotoNational Park
White Sands National Park
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Biking through the dunefield on the park road
NPS PhotoNational Monument
Tonto National Monument
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: This unit excels for archaeology and Southwest history enthusiasts, families with curious children, and road cyclists seeking a cultural stop.
NPS PhotoNational Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park
Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking routes that put you directly in contact with the terrain at ground level
NPS photo/Will ElderPark
Presidio of San Francisco
California
Why it ranks for biking: Biking on dedicated routes with views toward the Golden Gate
Bureau of Land ManagementRecreation Area
Horse Heaven Hills
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking along the ridgetop accessible via McBee Road for riders who want elevation without the steep hike
Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research ReserveRecreation Area
Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Rhode Island
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the island roads past land that traces use from colonial farming to a WWII Navy installation
NPS / Kristi RuggNational Park
Acadia National Park
Maine
Why it ranks for biking: 45 miles of historic carriage roads ideal for biking and horseback riding
NPS PhotoNational Recreation Area
Gateway National Recreation Area
New York, New Jersey
Why it ranks for biking: Biking on the open, flat grounds of Floyd Bennett Field, a repurposed historic airfield
NPS Photo/Tom WilsonNational Recreation Area
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: Bankside hiking and biking trails running through the river corridor
NPS PhotoNational Monument
First State National Monument
Delaware
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and horseback riding through historically layered landscapes with no entrance fee
Harold Blackwood PhotoParkway
Blue Ridge Parkway
North Carolina, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Road cycling on a low-traffic, high-elevation route with serious climbing
NCTANational Scenic Trail
North Country National Scenic Trail
Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Wisconsin
Why it ranks for biking: Horseback riding and mountain biking permitted on designated segments
Painting by Tim KurtzNational Battlefield Park
River Raisin National Battlefield Park
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: Birdwatching and biking are also popular activities.
NPS/Audrey TiernanNational Historic Site
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
New York
Why it ranks for biking: Visitors can hike, birdwatch, bike, and stargaze.
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Saratoga National Historical Park
New York
Why it ranks for biking: Front-country hiking and road biking on trails crossing historically significant ridgelines and fields
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
First State National Historical Park
Delaware, Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and front-country hiking trails spanning Delaware and Pennsylvania
Dorothea LangeNational Historic Site
Manzanar National Historic Site
California
Why it ranks for biking: Road cyclists traversing U.
NPS PhotoNational Military Park
Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
North Carolina
Why it ranks for biking: Bikeable and walkable tour route for visitors who want to experience the ground on foot or two wheels
NPS Photo/Paula AlexanderNational Memorial
Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
Indiana
Why it ranks for biking: Living history demonstrations, hiking trails, biking access, and junior ranger programming enhance the visit beyond a simple monument.
NPS PhotoNational Military Park
Vicksburg National Military Park
Mississippi, Louisiana
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and front-country hiking along portions of the battlefield for a ground-level perspective
NPS Photo / D. BlyNational Memorial
Coronado National Memorial
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Road cyclists and those who prefer scenic drives have good reason to visit.
NPS PhotoNational Battlefield
Cowpens National Battlefield
South Carolina
Why it ranks for biking: Road cyclists in upstate South Carolina may find it a convenient cultural stop.
NPS / Tom EngbergNational Historical Park
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
Ohio
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the Wright-Dunbar Village corridor to move between sites and experience the neighborhood's historic character
National Park ServiceNational Historical Park
Colonial National Historical Park
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: The parkway offers road cyclists a scenic, historically rich route.
NPS PhotoNational Preserve
Big Cypress National Preserve
Florida
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
Sharron GenauxNational Recreation Area
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Montana, Wyoming
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS / David HunterNational Monument & Preserve
Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve
Idaho
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS Photo / Dan JohnsonNational Monument
Dinosaur National Monument
Colorado, Utah
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Dinosaur National Monument covers biking and road biking.
NPS Photo by Miguel SalasNational Park
Everglades National Park
Florida
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Everglades National Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS Photo / T SigmonNational Recreation Area
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Arizona, Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS Photo / D. LehleNational Park
Grand Teton National Park
Wyoming
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Grand Teton National Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS Photo / Scott ArnazNational Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park
California
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Lassen Volcanic National Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS Photo/D.DixonNational Park
North Cascades National Park
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
National Park Service/Oscar GarciaNational Park
Pinnacles National Park
California
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS Photo / Dan RoddyNational Park
Wind Cave National Park
South Dakota
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national park.
NPS Photo/ Neal HerbertNational Park & Preserve
Wrangell - St Elias National Park & Preserve
Alaska
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and mountain biking for this national park & preserve.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Great Basin National Park
Nevada
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national park.
NPS Photo / Peter DensmoreNational Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national park.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Crater Lake National Park
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Crater Lake National Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Glacier National Park
Montana
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS/Patrick MyersNational Park & Preserve
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and mountain biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS Photo / Nathan CharltonNational Monument
Lava Beds National Monument
California
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national monument.
NPS Photo/Jon PrestonNational Park
Olympic National Park
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS PhotoNational Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore covers biking and road biking.
NPS Photo / Mark MeyersNational Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
North Dakota
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS/Shane CarteNational Park
Zion National Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national park.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Mesa Verde National Park
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS/M.QuinnNational Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
Kristina PlaasNational Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
North Carolina, Tennessee
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS PhotoNational Monument
Devils Postpile National Monument
California
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national monument.
NPSNational Monument
Wupatki National Monument
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking and road biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS Photo / Dan ZellerNational Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
California
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and road biking for this national monument.
Bill Hickey, Share the ExperienceRecreation Area
Chequamegon-Nicolet NF
Wisconsin
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking on dedicated trail systems including the Rock Lake and Wintergreen areas
USACELake & Reservoir
Coralville Lake
Iowa
Why it ranks for biking: Dedicated mountain bike trails separate from the hiking network
Jeff Clark, Bureau of Land ManagementRecreation Area
Fishtrap Recreation Area
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and hiking through shrub-steppe, grassland, and forest habitat
Jason Goldberg/USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the tour route for a slower, quieter wildlife experience than driving
NPS photoPark
American Memorial Park
Northern Mariana Islands
Why it ranks for biking: Flat, paved bike paths that make cycling here genuinely practical rather than aspirational
NPS Photo/Gary TarletonNational Historical Park
San Juan Island National Historical Park
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Biking between the two camps across San Juan Island
NPS Photo / B. DhunjishaNational Historical Park
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking across 3,500 acres of varied meadow and woodland terrain
Recreation.govNational Wildlife Refuge
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Horseback riding and biking access on non-wilderness refuge tracks
BLM OregonRecreation Area
North Bank Habitat Management Area
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Free entrance with a broad activity menu spanning hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and climbing
USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
Wisconsin
Why it ranks for biking: Multi-use trail system open to hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers
NPS PhotoNational Memorial
Chamizal National Memorial
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Self-guided walking and biking on memorial grounds at no cost
Bureau of Land ManagementWilderness Area
Chopaka Lake and Chopaka Mountain Wilderness Study Area
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: The accompanying 5,518-acre Wilderness Study Area ensures a wild, uncrowded experience; motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited.
Photo by Jesse Pluim/BLMRecreation Area
Knoxville Management Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: Free entry across all documented activities, including biking and fishing
Photos by David Greenwood, BLMRecreation Area
Merced River Recreation Management Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: Gravel road biking suitable for families and experienced mountain bikers
NPSRecreation Area
John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor
Massachusetts
Why it ranks for biking: Biking historic canal towpaths through mill village landscapes
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
Rhode Island, Massachusetts
Why it ranks for biking: Cycling the Blackstone River Bikeway connecting Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Greg Shine, BLMRecreation Area
Nestucca River Recreation Area
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: The Nestucca River National Back Country Byway, best experienced by bike, motorcycle, or slow car
USACELake & Reservoir
Dorena Lake
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Biking options through the partially wooded hill country surrounding the lake
BLMRecreation Area
Little Sahara Recreation Area
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Fat biking across dune terrain, an activity rarely available at this scale in the region
NPS Photo/Kenneth ChandlerPark
Capitol Hill Parks
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Biking through the connected squares and medians as a low-traffic urban ride
Howard & Linda PayneNational Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Nevada
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the scenic drive or surrounding roads with dramatic canyon backdrops
BLMRecreation Area
West Eugene Wetlands
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Fern Ridge Bicycle Path cutting directly through restored wetland habitat
Share the Experience, Shannon GivensRecreation Area
Atlantic City/South Pass
Wyoming
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the 11-mile Ft.
NPS Photo / Steve DeanNational Scenic Trail
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Hiking and biking routes spanning four states from DC to Pennsylvania
Peter PadeskyRecreation Area
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Flat biking along the tour route, a rare chance to slow down and cover wetland habitat at your own pace
Bureau of Land ManagementRecreation Area
Telford Recreation Area
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and horseback riding across open ranch roads and user-created routes
Ryan O'Dell/BLMRecreation Area
Tumey Hills
California
Why it ranks for biking: Free, low-traffic terrain open to biking and horseback riding alongside hiking
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Carpenter Bypass Trail System
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: 19 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails with jumps, berms, and rock gardens
Greg Shine, BLMRecreation Area
Clackamas Wild and Scenic River
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the forested river road as an alternative to crowded Cascade trail systems
NPS /DimseNational Park
Voyageurs National Park
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: While hiking and cycling options exist, they are secondary to boating, paddling, and fishing.
NPS PhotoNational Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore
California
Why it ranks for biking: Families, solo hikers, cyclists, paddlers, and equestrians will find suitable activities.
NPS Photo / Wesley GantNational Monument
Scotts Bluff National Monument
Nebraska
Why it ranks for biking: Casual hikers and cyclists are also well accommodated.
Share the Experience Photo Contest - Photo Courtesy of Peter RealiNational Monument
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Idaho
Why it ranks for biking: Visitors can hike, camp, bike, stargaze, explore lava tubes, ride horses, and ski in winter.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Saguaro National Park
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: The park's experience score of 76 reflects its documented breadth, encompassing scenic drives, backcountry trails, stargazing opportunities, biking routes, and family programming.
NPS photoNational Monument
Fort Frederica National Monument
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: The grounds accommodate pleasant strolls and short bike rides.
NPS PhotoNational Recreational River
Missouri National Recreational River
South Dakota, Nebraska
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS Photo / Vester MarableNational Military Park
Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
Alabama
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Horseshoe Bend National Military Park covers biking and road biking.
NPSNational Historical Park
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park covers biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Historic Site
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site covers biking and road biking.
Buddy SecorNational Military Park
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking and road biking.
NPS PhotoNational Scenic River
Bluestone National Scenic River
West Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking and mountain biking for this national scenic river.
NPS PhotoNational Scenic River
Niobrara National Scenic River
Nebraska
Why it ranks for biking: Hiking and biking the river corridor beyond the water
Share the Experience, Raymond LeeNational Forest
Hoosier National Forest
Indiana
Why it ranks for biking: Free entry provides access to a wide trail network for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
Bureau of Land ManagementRecreation Area
Lower Deschutes River Back Country Byway
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Cycling along a mix of paved miles out of Maupin and smooth gravel through steep canyon country
Stan BoussonRecreation Area
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: Bluff-top hiking and biking with 100 to 600-foot elevation above the river valley
NPS PhotoPark
Rock Creek Park
District of Columbia
Why it ranks for biking: Car-free Beach Drive on weekends, a dedicated biking and walking corridor through the forest
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Gold Belt Recreation Management Area
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: The area offers extensive BLM-managed land for auto touring, hiking, climbing, camping, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, biking, and wildlife viewing.
USACE photo by Matthew JonesLake & Reservoir
Whitney Lake
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Hopewell Trail: 12.5 miles of multi-use trail for hikers, bikers, and equestrians winding along the lake and through wildlife areas
USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
Iowa
Why it ranks for biking: It offers solid options for fishing, hunting, and biking the auto tour route.
NPS Photo/Dan BeardsNational Historical Park
Morristown National Historical Park
New Jersey
Why it ranks for biking: Front-country hiking and biking trails through the actual encampment landscape
Utah Office of TourismState Park
Jordanelle State Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Perimeter Trail open to both hikers and mountain bikers
Bob Wick, BLMRecreation Area
North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: 79 miles of the North Umpqua Trail open to both hikers and mountain bikers through old-growth forest
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Orilla Verde Recreation Area
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: An Experience Score of 83 reflects documented access to hiking, biking, fishing, birding, paddling, and stargazing.
Photo by BLMRecreation Area
South Yuba Recreation Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: 15 miles of non-motorized trail open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians year-round
Delaware National Estuarine Research ReserveRecreation Area
Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve
Delaware
Why it ranks for biking: Multi-use access including hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and swimming across 6,000-plus acres
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Free entrance with 24-hour pedestrian and cyclist access to the park
USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Maryland
Why it ranks for biking: Biking the wildlife drive loop with minimal vehicle competition
Addison Mohler/USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
Idaho
Why it ranks for biking: Year-round activity menu spanning birding, hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing
Tina Shaw/USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: Solo hikers or cyclists wanting solitude and nature over amenities will find it comfortable.
Justin Robbins, BLMRecreation Area
Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area (CFRA)
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and birders will find genuine rewards here.
Share the Experience, Julio ZagaNational Wildlife Refuge
Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: The experience score of 74 confirms its breadth, allowing for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and photography alongside birdwatching.
Jim Hudgins/USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: The experience score of 73 reflects a strong offering of documented activities: auto touring, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, and birding.
Utah Office of TourismState Park
Snow Canyon State Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Scenic drive through Navajo sandstone canyon walls with road-cycling appeal
(NPS/CLaBarge)Park
Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm
Maryland
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and self-guided walking on farm and cove grounds
Share the Experience, Amy RagerNational Wildlife Refuge
Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: Cyclists benefit from low-traffic scenic routes.
Jessie Jobs/USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Hiking and biking opportunities through bosque and upland habitats beyond the auto route
John Carr - USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: 20 miles of trails open to hiking and biking across restored prairie and wetland
Bill Gates - USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Alabama
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking through upland pine and bottomland hardwood habitat
Share the Experience, Lara TrozzoNational Wildlife Refuge
Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
North Dakota
Why it ranks for biking: Families seeking free outdoor programming, easy biking, or picnicking also fit well.
Kristen Moore, Share the ExperienceLake & Reservoir
Boca Reservoir
California
Why it ranks for biking: Camping and RV use alongside horseback riding and biking for multi-day stays
Sarah McNamara - USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Minnesota
Why it ranks for biking: Biking on a trail network spanning both urban and rural sections of the corridor
NPS Photo / Troy WayrynenNational Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Oregon, Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Biking access on and around the historic grounds
Utah Office of Tourism | Matt MorganState Park
Goblin Valley State Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Mountain biking and hiking routes that push beyond the main valley into surrounding canyon terrain
Eve TurekNational Wildlife Refuge
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
North Carolina
Why it ranks for biking: Flat, accessible trails and bike-friendly paths that let you move quietly through refuge habitat without a car
Cow Mountain Recreation AreaRecreation Area
Cow Mountain Recreation Management Area
California
Why it ranks for biking: OHV riders, mountain bikers, and hunters will find ample unfenced, uncrowded public land.
Utah Office of TourismState Park
Gunlock State Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking options that complement a half-day on the water without demanding a full commitment
Thamara Hernandez, FWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking the refuge road network through dense subtropical habitat
Michael McCook, Share the ExperienceRecreation Area
Hoover Dam
Nevada
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking options along the canyon terrain surrounding the dam site
Knolls Off-Highway VehicleRecreation Area
Knolls Off-Highway Vehicle Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA)
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: While hikers and bikers can navigate the area, the documented proximity to an active bombing range fundamentally shapes any visit.
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Jimmy Carter National Historical Park
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: Biking through the small town of Plains as a practical and enjoyable way to connect sites
David Wagner - USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Fishing and biking access that rounds out a visit beyond birding alone
USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge
Puerto Rico
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking options that let you move quietly through habitat at your own pace
Recreation.govLake & Reservoir
Kaweah Lake
California
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking options that let you stretch your legs without committing to a full trail day
Share the Experience, Craig McIntyreNational Wildlife Refuge
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Biking and hiking trails through coastal Texas scrub and wetland edge habitat
NPS Photo / Scott SharagaNational Preserve
Big Thicket National Preserve
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
Mitch SmithNational Park
Hot Springs National Park
Arkansas
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Hot Springs National Park covers biking.
NPS Photo / James KramerNational Park & Preserve
Lake Clark National Park & Preserve
Alaska
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national park & preserve.
NPS Photo/ Deb SpillmanNational Park
Mammoth Cave National Park
Kentucky
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Mammoth Cave National Park covers biking.
NPS / Cindy JacobyNational Park
Yosemite National Park
California
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national park.
NPS PhotoNational Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore
Maryland, Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national seashore.
Jason GablaskiNational Monument
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
Maine
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument covers biking.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Badlands National Park
South Dakota
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
NPSNational Park
Big Bend National Park
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Big Bend National Park covers biking.
NPS/Neal HerbertNational Park
Canyonlands National Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
Courtesy of James HicksNational Recreation Area
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
New Jersey, Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS Photo / Nathan KostegianNational Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve
Alaska
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national park & preserve.
NPS PhotoNational Park
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national park.
NPS / Emily HassellNational Park
Joshua Tree National Park
California
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
JD Hascup PhotoNational Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
NPS Photo/ Thomas DiGiovannangeloNational Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore
Texas
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS PhotoNational Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Michigan
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore covers biking.
NPS PhotoNational Monument
Fort Stanwix National Monument
New York
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national monument.
NPS Photo/Darryl HerringEcological & Historic Preserve
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
Florida
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
NPS/Veronica VerdinNational Park
Arches National Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Arches National Park covers biking.
Courtesy of J. FrankNational Park
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park covers biking.
NPS Photo / Joel CadoffNational Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Fort Pulaski National Monument covers biking.
NPS/T. MillerNational Monument
Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument
Arizona
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national monument.
NPS PhotoNational Seashore
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national seashore.
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Cow Creek Back Country Byway
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Cow Creek Back Country Byway covers biking.
Tim KiserPark
Great Egg Harbor River
New Jersey
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
Jim Osborne/Friends of CONWRNational Wildlife Refuge
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
Illinois
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
Greg Shine, BLMRecreation Area
Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Steens Mountain Cooperative Management & Protection Area covers mountain biking.
Bureau of Land ManagementLake & Reservoir
Twin Lakes Recreation Area
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
Diana Douglass, Share the ExperienceNational Wildlife Refuge
Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge
Washington
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS ImageNational Historic Site
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Pennsylvania
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site covers biking.
Utah Office of TourismState Park
Scofield State Park
Utah
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
Bureau of Land ManagementLake & Reservoir
Lake Abert and Abert Rim
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
NPS PhotoMemorial
Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
Ohio
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this memorial.
NPS PhotoNational Historic Site
Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site
Missouri
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
Jonathan Upchurch, Share the ExperienceRecreation Area
Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this recreation area.
NPS Photo / Alex WilesNational Historic Trail
Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Washington, West Virginia
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national historic trail.
NPSNational Historical Park
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
Georgia
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national historical park.
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Owyhee Wild & Scenic River
Oregon
Why it ranks for biking: The NPS data for Owyhee Wild & Scenic River covers biking.
Recreation.govRecreation Area
Penitente Canyon
Colorado
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
Robert Laremore, Share the ExperienceNational Wildlife Refuge
Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge
New Mexico
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
NPS PhotoNational Historical Park
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Hawaii
Why it ranks for biking: Recorded activities and topics here include biking.
Matt Poole - USFWSNational Wildlife Refuge
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Massachusetts
Why it ranks for biking: Its official NPS record lists biking for this national wildlife refuge.
Tony Hough - USFWS VolunteerRecreation Area
National Elk Refuge
Wyoming
Why it ranks for biking: Documents biking among its National Park Service activity and topic listings.
How this ranking is built
The order is auditable, so here is the recipe.
This list ranks by documented biking relevance first: how many biking-related activities and topics each unit records in the official NPS data, plus whether our editors featured that theme in the write-up. When two units are level on biking, the parkverdict Experience Score below breaks the tie. So the top of this page is genuinely the strongest biking parks, not just the ones that document the most of everything.
The Experience Score itself weighs:
- 48Activity breadth
- 16Topic breadth
- 14Imagery
- 12Camping
- 10Free access
parkverdict is independent. No park pays for placement, and scores use an honest spread, so you will see real 60s and 70s here, not a wall of 90s. Read the full methodology.
What this ranking cannot tell you
This order reflects what each unit documents for biking in official public data, not a day spent on the ground. It cannot weigh scenery, how crowded a place gets, trail or road conditions, seasonal timing, or the quality of a specific tour. A unit that records fewer biking activities can still be the better biking trip for you, so treat the ranking as a documented-breadth shortlist and read each park verdict for who it actually suits.
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