Introduction Electric bikes (e-bikes) have made it easier than ever to explore scenic landscapes without worrying about steep climbs or long distances. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a weekend wanderer, the U.S. offers countless beautiful routes tailored to e-bike travel. From coastal rides to mountain vistas and urban trails, these ten routes promise breathtaking views, smooth rides, and unforgettable experiences.
- Katy Trail State Park – Missouri Stretching over 240 miles, the Katy Trail is the longest developed rail-trail in the country. Following the Missouri River for much of the route, riders enjoy picturesque farmland, forest canopies, and historic small towns. With its mostly flat, crushed limestone path, it’s a dream for e-bike users looking for a peaceful, extended ride through the Midwest.
- San Juan Islands – Washington Take your e-bike on a ferry and hop between the stunning San Juan Islands. The most popular ride is on San Juan Island itself, where the 38-mile loop offers ocean views, rolling hills, charming towns, and frequent wildlife sightings—including orcas and bald eagles. The electric boost makes those hills more manageable and lets you soak in the scenery.
- Cape Cod Rail Trail – Massachusetts This 25-mile paved trail winds through the heart of Cape Cod, passing cranberry bogs, kettle ponds, beaches, and quaint New England towns. Ideal for e-bikes, the mostly level trail connects to other local paths and makes for a relaxing yet rewarding coastal adventure.
- The Mickelson Trail – South Dakota In the Black Hills of South Dakota, this 109-mile trail offers a combination of pine forests, granite peaks, and Old West history. With over 100 converted railroad bridges and four rock tunnels, the Mickelson Trail is as fun as it is scenic. E-bikes are permitted, and their assistance is especially welcome on the gradual inclines.
- Shark Valley Trail – Everglades National Park, Florida Looking for something completely unique? Shark Valley’s 15-mile paved loop takes riders into the heart of the Everglades. This flat route offers up-close encounters with wildlife such as alligators, turtles, and wading birds. A tall observation tower halfway through provides panoramic views of the wetlands—well worth the stop.
- Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, Montana While not for the faint of heart, this iconic 50-mile road through Glacier National Park is an unforgettable experience. E-bikes allow more riders to tackle the steep elevation and soak in jaw-dropping vistas of alpine lakes, glacier-carved valleys, and towering peaks. Time your visit for early summer before vehicle restrictions are lifted.
- Burke-Gilman Trail – Seattle, Washington A favorite urban route, the 27-mile Burke-Gilman Trail cuts through neighborhoods, lakes, and greenbelts around Seattle. It offers a seamless ride from the suburb of Bothell to Golden Gardens Park on Puget Sound. Perfect for e-bike commuters and sightseers alike, this trail combines city life with natural beauty.
- McKenzie River Trail – Oregon For a more adventurous ride, the McKenzie River Trail in the Willamette National Forest is a 26-mile gem. It includes waterfalls, hot springs, and old-growth forests. Although some sections are technical, experienced riders with full-suspension e-bikes will find it a thrilling, immersive experience in Oregon’s backcountry.
- Legacy Trail – Sarasota to Venice, Florida Florida makes another appearance with the smooth, 18.5-mile Legacy Trail, which runs between Sarasota and Venice. This paved path is great for families and leisure riders, offering shaded areas, rest stops, and glimpses of local wildlife. It’s also part of a larger regional trail system currently expanding.
- Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina & Virginia Known for its sweeping mountain views and vibrant fall foliage, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a bucket-list ride. E-bikes make the steady climbs more accessible, allowing riders to enjoy the 469-mile route in sections. Scenic overlooks, hiking trailheads, and cultural landmarks line the way.
Conclusion
With the growing popularity of electric bikes, scenic rides are more accessible than ever. Whether you prefer coastal routes, mountain passes, or lush forests, there’s a path that suits your taste and skill level. These ten scenic e-bike routes offer more than just exercise—they invite you into some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes the U.S. has to offer. So charge up, gear up, and hit the road!