Cycling is more popular than ever, and the trend of exploring faraway destinations on two wheels continues to grow. Here are five ideas for your crew to consider.
Bike near Spokane, Wash.
Go with a guide or chart your own course as you explore Eastern Washington’s railroads; Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; and to the Montana border.
Flat, paved, pristine trails make for stress-free yet scenic family biking. Ride along the famous Hiawatha Highway and the Coeur d’Alenes Trail, two of the Rail-to-Trail Conservancy’s Hall of Fame trails.
Increase the adventure quotient by mixing kayaking, rafting or fishing on local rivers into a day. Stop at a hot spring or consider a side hike.
For more information: https://wilderness-voyageurs.com/adventures/idaho-coeur-dalene-bike-tour; www.Visitidaho.org
Cycling with the family in Italy
Savor an ice cream after walking past grazing sheep and charming stone houses. Meet a four-legged truffle detective. Look forward to olive oil, fine wine and homemade pizza on your cycling trip through Tuscany.
Cruise past vineyards, cypresses, and iconic landmarks that make your way to quaint hill towns worth every turn. Host a gourmet picnic at a working farm. Visit picturesque villages, take watercolor lessons and immerse yourself in the history of Italian art.
For more information: www.backroads.com
Bike Block Island, RI
Take in ocean views, salt ponds filled with wildlife, and the laid-back vibe of this scenic wonder that’s part of America’s smallest state. Mostly flat, smooth and paved roads allow tourists on two wheels to enjoy a wonderland that the Nature Conservancy considers one of the “last great places” in the Western Hemisphere.
Stunning views of Narragansett Bay, dotted with sailboats, add to the experience. You’ll also enjoy fresh seafood, beach walks, and local history.
For more information: www.greatfreedomadventures.com; www.greatfreedomadventures.comhttp://www.greatfreedomadventures.com
Utah Hut-to-Hut Walk
For a great family adventure, consider a backcountry mountain bike experience through Utah’s Color Country. The new Aquarius Trail Hut system offers five furnished cabins – with well-equipped kitchens and other amenities – strategically placed along the 190-mile route.
Riders will ride from the top of Brian Head, through Panguitch, Hatch and Bryce, past hidden lakes and spectacular views, to the beautiful town of Escalante. E-bikes are permitted in each cabin so family members of mixed abilities can enjoy the same adventure.
For more information: https://aquarustrail.com
Explore the Olympic Peninsula
Bike the Olympic Discovery Trail, summit Hurricane Hill, spot gray whales and orcas, visit Port Angeles and La Push, and explore the Hoh Rainforest on a six-day road bike tour in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula.
In this majestic corner of Washington State, you’ll pedal over diverse terrain including temperate rainforests, scenic coastlines and sparkling lakes. Available from July to September.
For more information: www.EscapeAdventures.com; https://www.stateofwatourism.com
Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel information on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or through FamilyTravel.com
Comments are closed.