In an attempt to offer some insight into the many awesome biking trails this country has to offer, I’ve narrowed down my 5 favorites in the Central areas of the USA. While there are so many to choose from, I’m hoping my humble opinions below will help you get the most out of your ride.
Waldo Canyon, CO. With literal breathtaking views , especially from the top, this trail doesn’t disappoint. At the apex of the ride you will be above the tree line, which is especially unique. There are few rides in this country where you get the feeling that you could touch Heaven itself. The downward ride is memorable and fun as well.
Palmer Park in Colorado Springs. The trails in Palmer Park truly do offer something for everyone. Beginners will find a fun trail to ride and the experts in your group will not be disappointed either. The Park hasn’t been completely mapped yet so there are still places where you might get a little lost. Don’t panic, just enjoy the fact you actually someplace in the US that hasn’t been mapped yet. A little bit of common sense will get you back on the right path and enjoying your ride.
Cache Creek to Game Creek Loop, Jackson, WY. Located immediately southeast of the town of Jackson, this trail will seem a little common in the beginning. However, you will not be disappointed after the first 2 miles. Rolling hills, thicket, wildlife and seemingly every kind of flowering plant you can think of line the wide track. This trail works for all fitness levels and is truly beautiful. For a more challenging ride, do the loop backwards.
MOAB in Utah. The MOAB Brand trails in Moab, UT are named for the 4 different letters in the town’s name. Starting with M, the easiest trail, and working their way to B, the most difficult, these trails provide a skills challenge no matter what your skill level. If you’re a beginner, stick to the rocky terrain of the M trail. For the expert, take the hair pin turns of the B. Most people are somewhere in between and will a great time on the O and A trails. Moab is an otherworldly town not to be missed.
Austin, Texas. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is my favorite place in the great state of Texas. Not only is Austin one of the coolest, quirkiest cities you will ever have the pleasure of visiting with the right mindset this trail is a ton of fun. It is inconsistent in places and you may have to walk in some places but if you are looking for nature in the middle of an urban setting, Barton Creek is a lot of fun. If you can go during the Austin City Limits Music Festival and bike a couple of days you will have lived my dream vacation, I hope you enjoy it.
Above are five excellent places to begin your exploration of Central US bike trails. Admittedly these trails kind of hug the edges of the Central US. I do like to have some elevation change in my bike trails and the bread basket doesn’t really provide you with that. These trails will keep you busy though, and happy with your bike riding if you dare to try to take them on.
