Now that the winter is a distant memory, it is prime time for cyclists everywhere to get out there and enjoy long days and sunny rides. You’ll likely notice the extra cyclists around too as commuting via bicycle has risen 60% in the past 10 years. Cities all across the United States are noticing this trend and increasing their bike-friendliness. So we’ve decided to take a look at where you can find the best bike paths with the best sights in the country to determine the five best cities for bike lovers in America.
Image Source: Flickr
1) Portland, OR
Don’t let the Pacific Northwest weather put you off, Portland has long reigned as king of bike-friendly cities in America. It has one of the largest and most comprehensive bike networks in the country, and the largest per capita bike commuting population. Plus, they are investing a further $613 Million to increase the amount of bike paths to over 1,000 miles and are starting their own bike sharing program in 2016.
Our favorite bike path: Take your mountain bike to Forest Park (the nation’s largest urban preserve) for some single-track trails.
Best places to rent bikes: Clever Cycles, Veloce Bicycles, and Fat Tire Farm.
2) Chicago, IL
The Windy City has over 170 miles of bike lanes, which has made the city a haven for cyclists. Plus it’s location right on Lake Michigan means that there are some truly stellar rides to be had up and down the coast of this great lake with the Chicago skyline on one side and sandy beach on the other. Plus, if you can wait until 2020, a 645 mile cycling network will be constructed throughout the entire city.
Our favorite bike path: Take the North Branch Trail that winds along the Chicago River and ends at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Best places to rent bikes: Divvy Bike Sharing, McDonald’s Cycle Center, and Bobby’s Bike Hike
3) Boulder, CO
Stunning mountain scenery, extensive bike trails, and easy access to world-class mountain biking make Boulder a cyclist’s paradise. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, you won’t have to wait long for a clear day to ride either. Although the altitude can be a little tough, it’s too beautiful not to go for a ride in Boulder. Plus, they have a 24-hour bike sharing program that couldn’t be easier to use for tourists and locals alike.
Our favorite bike path: Exploring the huge variety of trails at Walker Ranch is a must.
Best places to rent bikes: Boulder Bikesmith and University Bicycles.
4) Washington D.C.
Not only is biking a great way to get some exercise in the nation’s capital, it’s perhaps the easiest and fastest way to get around too. You can easily skip the traffic in Washington DC and see all the famous monuments, memorials, and museums all from your bike. The Capitol Bikeshare program means that there are over 2,500 bikes at over 300 stations to choose from, and that a good quality bike is never too far away.
Our favorite bike path: The C&O Canal Trail is an amazing 184 mile path you can bike part of (or all of if you’re ambitious) along the Potomac.
Best places to rent bikes: Capital Bikeshare is the best option, but Big Wheel Bikes is also a good.
5) San Diego
Year-round pleasant weather means you can cycle all year in San Diego. On top of that there are some truly excellent road and mountain bike paths in “America’s Finest City” for you to try. From classic beachside rides to lovely park paths that lead to one of the best zoo’s in the country, there are a variety of rides in San Diego for bikers of all abilities. Plus, a bike sharing program is in the works as well that will make getting around even easier.
Our favorite bike paths: Balboa Park is perfect for an easy ride, but Mission Trails Regional Park is better for those looking for more of a challenge or to do some mountain biking.
Best places to rent bikes: Stay Classy Bike Rentals and The Bike Revolution are your best bets.
From Portland to Washington DC, these five cities provide are perfect for bike lovers of any kind. If you’re thinking about taking a bike-friendly vacation to one of these cities, consider a vacation rental with PC Housing. Contact us today to find out more about our vacation rentals across the country.