Ever wondered where some of the best bike vacation destinations were? Here are 6 to start with!
Banff, Alberta, Canada
Nearly 120 miles of mountain-bike trails wind through Banff National Park, where the high-alpine scenery–striated peaks, aquamarine lakes, and glaciers–is among the world’s most stunning. In fact, the town itself is in the park.
Burlington, Vermont
Choose from among dozens of rides mapped by the Green Mountain Bicycle Club: a tour of covered bridges, a Cabot cheese tasting, or a loop through the quad-torching Greens. Nearby, hop on the Burlington Bike Path (a paved 7.6-mile route). From there the pathway connects to 1,300 miles of the Lake Champlain Bikeways system, a network of routes that rolls through classic New England scenery all the way to Quebec.
Charleston, South Carolina
The city is known for graceful antebellum houses and Southern manners, but Charleston’s cycling culture is surprisingly rich. Real estate agents show properties by bike. Local club Coastal Cyclists leads daily rides that show off both the old and new South, taking in barrier islands, plantations, and greenways.
Healdsburg, California
This quaint town is an ideal staging ground for exploring Sonoma wine country by bike. Visit in August for the Tour de Vine, during which you’ll ride with local vintners and chefs and feast on goat cheese and baguettes at the farmers’ market.
Ketchum, Idaho
With 400 miles of trails crossing the surrounding Sawtooths, the laid-back resort of Ketchum/Sun Valley is a legit, never-ride-the-same-singletrack-twice destination. In town, bike culture is vibrant: A half-dozen shops rent out. Turn in any direction and you’ll find either a ski lodge or a $9K carbon beauty leaning against a deck.
Traverse City, Michigan
Visit this northern Michigan city in August for the Cherry-Roubaix (with Euro-style cobbles), the Third Coast Bicycle Festival, and DALMAC, a huge multiday ride that passes through the area. Check out the 10.5-mile Traverse Area Recreational Trail (TART). Continue to the 18-mile-long Old Mission Peninsula for orchards, historic homes, and panoramic views.
If you are interested in booking a trip to any of these locations please contact us at 802-777-2009. Also visit http://greatbike.wpengine.com/private-tips/ for more information
