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.

Credit: Bill Fink

The Beach Cruiser

The Strand, Los Angeles

This is the true California Dreaming experience: pedaling along a flat bike path stretching about 25 miles from Redondo Beach to Malibu, showcasing the highlights of Southern California. Officially named the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, what locals call “The Strand” takes you past surfers and pro volleyball players in Manhattan Beach, the carnival-like Santa Monica Pier, the colorful collection of freaks and bodybuilders at Venice Beach, and can finish with a lazy sunset at Will Rodgers State Beach near Malibu or a bonfire at the long expanse of Dockweiler Beach. Bike rental shops, restaurants, cafes and bars line The Strand, providing plenty of entertaining detours.

View galleryCourtesy of Getaway Adventures

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!).

Credit: David Blair / Swanky Retreats

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