Late last year, Germany approved an entire highway just for bicycles. Although only the first three miles of this major bicycle route is open right now, when finished, the entire path will be over 60 miles long. Ten cities and four universities will be connected by the bicycle highway when it’s completed. Such a major infrastructure development will help reduce traffic congestion during rush hour. Not just ideal for practical purposes like commutes, this bicycle highway will be perfect for weekend recreation and exercise. With spring just around the corner, there is no better time to start preparing the new bicycle routes you will explore in 2016.

1. Mt. Evans Climb, CO

The Mt. Evans Climb in Colorado is the highest paved bicycle route in the United States. Not only are you sure to get quite the workout ascending this path, but you’ll have a gorgeous view, too. It takes about three hours to complete this 27 mile long bicycle route. Try to remind yourself when you’re only halfway up the path the ride down is going to be well worth all that pain.

2. Crater Lake Loop, OR

The Loop around Crater Lake is located in the Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. This bicycle route encircles the gorgeous Crater Lake. Legend has it this lake was formed when Mt. Mazama was destroyed during a battle between the god of the sky and the god of the underworld. The result is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in the world. Lucky for us, we can enjoy its beauty by bicycle.

3. Gran Fondo, NY

You may think that NYC has no quality bicycle routes, but you’d be mistaken. The 100 mile long Gran Fondo path along the Hudson River is one of the nation’s best. You’ll cross the George Washington Bridge, pass through charming little towns, and even climb 1,200 feet up Bear Mountain. Sounds like the perfect way to see the city that never sleeps from a different perspective than most people do.

4. Sea to Summit, CA

As the name suggests, you’ll get to see some of California’s diverse landscape along the Sea to Summit bicycle route. Beginning along San Francisco’s famous waterfront, you’ll cross one of America’s most photographed bridges, the Golden Gate. From there, enjoy the salty air as you pass by a couple of beaches before ascending over 2,500 feet to the top of Mt. Tamalpais.

5. Road to Hana, HI

If you find yourself in Hawaii, but don’t have a bicycle, find a rental, quick! There is no better way to travel the almost 45 mile Hana Highway. Prepare to be alert during the entire journey because you’ll have to navigate 600 hairpin turns and more than 50 bridges. There will be more car traffic on this route than on the others on this list, so prepare to take it easy and enjoy the mountains and waterfalls that surround you.

 


Which bicycle routes are in your plans for this spring/summer?


 

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Kirstin Wright
Kirstin Wright
Kirstin is an IT worker by day and a freelance writer by night. When not behind a computer screen, she can be found exploring one of central Florida's famous theme parks or embarking on a new adventure. You can read about her adventures at Fun Orlando Ideas!