Original article posted by americanway.com
Want to truly immerse yourself in the majesty of the western United States? Hop on a bike and pedal through an aromatic pine forest in Washington, feel the sea breeze on your face as you coast along the Oregon coast, or ride right into a California vineyard for a taste of wine country.
There’s perhaps no better mode of transportation than cycling to see top sights in the wide-open West while still traveling slow enough to appreciate uniquely local experiences. Whether your cycling skills and interests are tailored toward adrenaline-pumping mountain descents in Montana or a dawdling, toes-in-the sand beachside cruise in L.A., you should grab your bike, hire a rental, or book a tour to enjoy some of these western rides.
The Beach Cruiser
The Strand, Los Angeles
The Health-Conscious Gourmand
Wine Country Bike Tour, Sonoma County, California
Literally drink in the scenery as you pedal between vineyards amidst the scenic rolling hills and flat winding backroads of Sonoma or Napa County. Join guided programs like Sonoma’s Getaway Adventures, which can supply picnic lunches, coordinate tasting reservations and pick up purchases—as well as imbibing bikers—along the route. Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley features a popular 25-mile out-and-back trek from Healdsburg passing four wineries, while motivated bikers can continue 25 miles farther into the Anderson Creek and Russian River Valleys via some steeper hill ascents—those riders’ staminas will be rewarded with sweeping wine country vistas (and more tastings!).
The Serene Bikepacker
Oregon Coast Trail, Oregon
For those looking for a premier multi-day bike tour, cycle part of the 375 miles along the Oregon coast. This spectacular oceanside ride overlooks pristine beaches topped with jagged cliffs and historic lighthouses on one side, and thick forests and friendly towns on the other. Biking-oriented campgrounds, inns, outfitters and shops along the way support “bikepackers” and day-trippers. The famed Three Capes segment traces 38 miles of quiet seaside backroads south of Tillamook, due west of Portland. For guided tours, Escape Adventures runs six-day trips down the coast and even offers e-bikes for those needing an extra boost.
escapeadventures.com
Since 1992, we at Escape Adventures have been blessed to shape and lead adventure travel vacations through some of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in the world. Each successive season, our passion for adventure grows through memorable moments with our guests. Fresh air, faith, fitness and friends are the building blocks for our ventures, the treasured experiences that keep us moving forward. For those of you who have trekked and traveled with us over the past quarter century, Heather and I express our sincerest gratitude. The memories are priceless.
