Top 10 Road Cycling Trips

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Top 10 Road Cycling Trips

There's nothing quite like cycling an unknown road, to scenic vistas, by the sweat of your own brow and under yourown power. Whether you're new to biking or have been at it for years, regardless of whether you consider yourself a beginner or a professional, it can be tough to select the course that's right for you. Here's a quick sampling of the best opportunities for road (not mountain) cycling tours and adventures available today!

1. Cycling the San Juan Islands


Washington State's San Juan Islands are a perfect vacation for the avid biker. After a short ferry ride from Seattle, riders are treated to some of the most soothing countryside in North America: black-tailed deer, great blue herons, flocks of sheep and fields of tulips. While you ride to the top of Mt. Constitution, you'll surely enjoy the fantastic scenery- perhaps you'll want to stop to pick some wild berries, too. If you're looking for a laid-back, intermediate-skill level week of road cycling fun, this is the trip for you.

2. Rocky Mountain High Altitude Cycling

Colorado's Rockies contain an incredible wealth of cycling opportunities that have gone unnoticed by most even in the biking world. On this tour, you'll experience these beautifully untouched paths: Taylor Canyon, Taylor Park, Poncha Pass, Slumgullion Pass, Lake City. For the discerning cyclist, no place other than the Rockies can offer such a challenging, unique experience. You'll treasure each moment- even on the uphill!

3. Royal Vermont Cycling


Vermont's scenic vistas are yet another hidden gem for road bikers, right here in the USA. Between Burke Hollow, Westmore and Black River, your cycling expectations are sure to be met. While you're there, don't hesitate to jump on the opportunity to kayak down the White Mountain Stream or hike up to the summit of Mt. Pisgah. As they say, variety's the spice of life!

4. Alps Pro Bike Tour


If you're looking for a challenge, this Alps tour de force is right up your alley; or, if I may, mountain. There's nothing quite like following in the pedal-strokes of Armstrong and Hinault, on these courses tailor-made for the experienced biker.When you summit the Queen's Path, King's Way and the peak of the Alpe d'Huez, nothing before will prepare you for the sense of accomplishment and pride you'll feel upon touching your foot to solid ground once again.

5. Cycling The Oregon Coast


This week-long, 360-mile trek from Stevens State Park down to Florence, OR is nothing to be trifled with. However, while you'll occasionally ride 60 miles in a day, there's plenty of fun to be had on the way: you'll see Rockaway Beach as your ride by Tillamook's famous cheese factory, and have the opportunity to go on a hike to Hart's Cove and get plenty of surfing done in Pacific City. It's the perfect blend of relaxation and serious road cycling.

6. Biking Prince Edward Island

On the other side of the continent, Canada's Prince Edward Island offers just as much coastal riding adventure. From the glassy calm of Malpeque Bay to the quiet tranquility of Confederation Trail, this 6-Day journey into some of Canada's most magnificent examples of natural beauty offers an opportunity for a splendid retreat for people of all stripes, into the bliss of a true cycling odyssey.

7. Mystical Bhutan Cycling Adventure

Now for the exotic! This cycling trip in Asia is more than a mere chance to stretch your legs. On your journey, you'll see the monasteries of Dodina and walk through the National Institute of Zorig Chusum, ascend to the spirituallyenergized Dochula Pass and pass through deep, meditative forests. This two-week venture into such a wild and ancient land is sure to be genuinely unforgettable.

8.Northern Californian Bike Tour


There are few places that can compare to Santa Rosa and the rest of San Francisco's northern neighbors as far as spectacular nature is concerned. And, as far as cyclists are concerned, it takes the cake! On this trip you'll have the chance to feel the wind in your hair as you climb the oak-thick hills of the Coast Range, smell the salt of the sea air by Point Arena Lighthouse, not to mention taste the wines of Sonoma County and have the opportunity go hiking near the city of Mendocino.

9. Costa Rican Bicycle Tour


On this trip, you'll arrive in San Jose- and quickly get out of the city, adventuring into the San Carlos plains. If you're up for it, the mountainous villages of Monterrey await on high-altitude trails, where you'll have a spectacular view of Arenal Volcano. Here, you'll find the best of Central America on a wonderful week-long adventure.

10. Glacier Park/Waterton Lakes Cycling Adventure

And last, but certainly not least, another Canadian adventure! Waterton Lakes is a beautiful mountain locale, situated just above Montana's Glacier Park, and is just waiting for you to cycle in its fresh, pure mountain air. On this tour, you'll pedal through Logan Pass, the Triple Divide and even have time to go on some option hikes near Crypt Lake and Carthew Alderson. This trip is not for the faint of heart; you'll be traveling 60+ miles a day, not including any additional hiking. Regardless, it's certainly the journey of a lifetime.

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