In this post, we showcase 10 family-friendly rides across the USA that are perfect for family bike rides. As far as family activities go, nothing gets everyone involved quite like cycling. Whether it’s a day trip, short outing, or a multi-day adventure, cycling gives families a safe and fun opportunity to share wonderful experiences together.
Now’s a great time to get back in the saddle and foster a love of the outdoors in your children! Choosing the right trail is paramount. The right environment goes a long way to building your child’s confidence and ensuring cycling becomes a regular family activity.
With so many options out there, it’s hard to pick out trails the whole family will enjoy. That’s why we’ve done it for you! Here are 10 family-friendly rides across the USA that both you and your children will love.
1. Lone Star Geyser Trail, Yellowstone National Park (WY)
Lone Star Geyser, Yellowstone National Park. Photo by the National Parks Conservation AssociationCheck out the wonders of Yellowstone National Park as you ride towards the famous Lone Star Geyser. A free and fun family bike trail, suitable for all skill levels. This is a relatively level trail that follows the Firehole River until you reach the geyser. The geyser erupts every three hours, shooting to a height of 30-45ft. There’s a good chance you’ll catch it on your visit!
Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
2. Rainbow Rim Trail 10, Grand Canyon (AZ)
Rainbow Rim Trail 10, Grand Canyon, Arizona. Photo by the Grand Canyon Visitor CenterThe Rainbow Rim Trail 10 runs along the Grand Canyon’s northern rim. This exciting track is a world-famous adventure that can be completed all in one go or broken up into small chunks which makes it perfect for a multi-day trip. Your kids will love taking in all the wonders of the Grand Canyon. Enjoy stunning views and spot the Canyon’s unique wildlife from the five lookout points at Powell Plateau, Steamboat Mountain, Tapeats Amphitheater, and Great Thumb.
Distance: 22.5 miles (one way)
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
3. Bush Creek Trail, Crested Butte (CO)
Bush Creek Trail, Crested Butte, Colorado. Photo by Travel Crested ButteThe Bush Creek Trail is a must-ride family trail when visiting Crested Butte in summer. Situated just outside the town center, Bush Creek Trail offers sweeping views of the surrounding hillsides blanketed in multi-colored wildflowers. This trail is exciting for both beginner and experienced riders with small challenges along the way.
Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
4. South Lake Tahoe Bike Path, Lake Tahoe (CA)
South Lake Tahoe Bike Path, Lake Tahoe (CA). Photo by City of South Lake TahoeThis paved trail meanders through 10 miles of stunning pine forest that surrounds Lake Tahoe. The ease of this track is ideal for little ones who need to go at their own pace while offering plenty of excitement for seasoned riders. With beautiful spots such as Pope Beach and Baldwin Beach to stop at along the way, this is a fun, all-day ride. Load up the backpack and stop for a swim or a picnic.
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Easy
5. Mountain to Meadow Route, Big Sky (MT)
Mountain to Meadow Route, Big Sky (MT). Photo by Visit Big SkyFor families looking for a slightly more challenging track, the Mountain to Meadow Route in Montana is worth checking out. After a mellow climb, riders of all skill levels will love tearing up the tracks on the four-mile descent. With lots of twists and turns, this track is full of excitement and will appeal to both beginner and advanced riders. With a safe, front mounted kid’s mountain bike seat, even the littlest tykes can join you on this ride!
Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
6. Round Valley Trail, Park City (UT)
Round Valley Trail, Park City (UT). Photo by Mountain Biking Park CityThe Round Valley trail system is a collection of 35 different tracks suited to riders of all skill levels. For the perfect family ride, choose the Fast Pitch to Round Valley Express which offers a challenging 200 ft climb and plenty of opportunities for downhill zooming! Check out the stunning vistas of Park City’s surrounding hillside as you navigate a mix of fast and flowy terrain.
Distance: 6.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy
7. Deschutes River Trail, Bend (OR)
Deschutes River Trail, Bend (OR). Photo by Bend Parks and Recreation DistrictMeander through the heart of Oregon along the Deschutes River on this family-friendly bike trail. Get a full dose of nature in the north end where pine and juniper trees line the tracks and wildlife pop out to greet cyclists on their adventure. Get ready for a change of scenery in the southern end where you’ll reach the Old Mill District and stop for a bite to eat. A full day of family fun.
Distance: 12 miles
Difficulty: Easy
8. Kingdom Trails, East Burke (VT)
Kingdom Trails, East Burke (VT). Photo by Cathryn McCann, New England TravelWith more than 100 miles of quality bike trails, there is something for every riding level in Vermont’s Kingdom Trails. We highly recommend having a blast on the pump track to polish up your kid’s skills before heading to the Moose Haven Forest track. This beginner track is a test of endurance with constant climbing and descending through the forest. It’s a great way to introduce the little ones to something a bit more challenging.
Distance: 100+ miles
Difficulty: All levels
9. Fresno Divide Loop Trail, Big Bend National Park (TX)
Fresno Divide Loop Trail, Big Bend National Park (TX). Photo by Texas Parks and WildlifeTake the kids to the highlands of Texas for a mountain biking adventure through Big Bend National Park. Witness expansive views of desert-like terrain and pass through historical sites as you gradually ascend to Contrabando Waterhole. Navigate some short drops and rocky tracks before enjoying a two-mile descent. Don’t forget to stop and take in the scenery!
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
10. Paradise Valley, Paradise Valley Conservation area, Seattle (WA)
Paradise Valley, Paradise Valley Conservation area, Seattle (WA). Photo by Mark Hoppy, All Trails – Paradise Valley Conservation AreaFamilies will love the Paradise Valley trail system as most of the track is rated beginner to intermediate. Choose which loops and tracks you’d like to take without having to worry about taking a wrong turn and ending up somewhere out of your depth. With mostly flowing tracks and small inclines, Paradise Valley is an excellent choice for building endurance and developing your child’s bike handling skills.
Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty: intermediate
Now gather the family together, pack up the bike gear, and get out there!
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