The best cycling routes in Idaho

The Idaho Falls Greenbelt loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience right through the heart of Idaho Falls, following the scenic Snake River. This easy 10.4 miles (16.7 km) route is mostly flat, with a minimal 153 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed ride that typically takes around 1 hour. You'll enjoy continuous river views and pass by key city landmarks, including the impressive Idaho Falls waterfall itself.

Parking for the Idaho Falls Greenbelt bike path is readily available at several points along the route, such as near South Tourist Park, ensuring convenient access. The trail is well-suited for family-friendly cycling and beginner cyclists, offering a safe and enjoyable environment. For the best season to cycle, aim for the milder temperatures of spring or fall, though the Greenbelt is accessible and pleasant throughout the year.

This urban greenbelt is a standout feature of Idaho Falls, providing a unique opportunity to combine outdoor activity with city sightseeing. It's a fantastic option for those looking for dog friendly cycling rules, as long as pets are leashed, and offers a chance for wildlife spotting along the riverbanks. The Greenbelt connects various downtown amenities, making it easy to combine your ride with a visit to nearby cafes or restaurants.

The Cedron-Bates Teton Valley Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the scenic Teton Valley, characterized by its wide-open agricultural lands and constant, breathtaking views of the Teton Range. You'll pedal along quiet roads, enjoying the fresh air and the expansive Idaho sky, with notable points like the Cedron Trail providing a pleasant stretch of the journey. This route is less about challenging climbs and more about soaking in the tranquil, rural beauty of the region.

Planning your ride on this moderate 31.6-mile (50.9 km) loop is straightforward, though specific trailhead parking for the Cedron-Bates Teton Valley Loop isn't widely publicized. Many cyclists start from towns like Driggs, which offers amenities and access to the broader Teton Valley cycling network. With only 580 feet (177 metres) of elevation gain, it's a relatively gentle ride that takes about 3 hours and 1 minute, making it perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon outing. Summer and early fall are ideal for clear roads and comfortable temperatures.

This route stands out as one of the popular cycling routes in Teton Valley Idaho, providing a fantastic way to explore the area's natural charm. After your ride, consider stopping at Grand Teton Brewing, a local highlight, for a refreshing drink. The Teton Valley is renowned for its outdoor activities, and this loop offers a quintessential experience of its pastoral beauty, making it a great option for those seeking scenic bike routes without extreme physical demands.

The Sunnyside Bike Path loop offers a delightful and straightforward touring cycling experience, perfect for those seeking a gentle ride in Idaho Falls. This easy 13.3-mile (21.4 km) route, which includes stretches of the Idaho Canal Trail, presents minimal challenge with just 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain. You can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a leisurely spin or a family outing.

Planning your ride on the Sunnyside Bike Path loop is simple. The route is easily accessible, and while specific parking details are not highlighted, you'll find convenient access points along the path itself. It's best enjoyed during pleasant weather, so check the forecast, and consider cycling in the morning or late afternoon to make the most of your time on the trail. This path is particularly good for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxed pace.

This touring cycling route stands out for its accessibility and the chance to see the Idaho Falls & Hydro Powerhouse up close. It provides a scenic way to explore the local area without venturing into rugged terrain, offering a smooth surface ideal for various bike types. The Sunnyside Bike Path loop is a great example of how urban trails can connect you with local landmarks and provide an enjoyable outdoor activity.

The Shelley to Snake River loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the gentle curves of the Snake River through a peaceful landscape. You'll enjoy smooth, mostly flat terrain, passing through the Shelley Nature Path with open views and the calming presence of the river. It's a perfect route for those seeking a relaxed ride, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty without strenuous climbs.

This moderate 26.1-mile (42.1 km) cycling route features a minimal 248 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for most riders and typically taking about 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete. Parking is available in Shelley, Idaho, and the route is best enjoyed during the pleasant temperatures of spring or fall. Consider an early start in summer to beat the heat.

This loop is an excellent choice among cycling routes near Shelley, Idaho, especially if you're looking for a family-friendly bike trail. The low elevation and well-maintained path make it suitable for cyclists of varying abilities, providing a scenic escape along the Snake River without the need for advanced technical skills or intense physical exertion.

The Greater Blackfoot Area Greenbelt offers a delightful and flat touring cycling experience, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll pedal along the scenic Blackfoot Greenbelt Path, enjoying views of Jensen Grove Park & Lake and crossing the charming Cannon Bridge. This route is designed for easy cruising, making it a fantastic option for all ages and skill levels.

Planning your visit is simple; the route is easily accessible with convenient parking options. Given its easy difficulty and short duration, you can enjoy this ride at almost any time of day, though early mornings or evenings are pleasant during warmer seasons. It's a great way to get some fresh air without a strenuous effort.

This greenbelt route stands out as an accessible cycling path, providing a gentle escape into nature right within the Blackfoot area. It's a prime example of a family-friendly bike trail, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone to cycle together. Consider it a local gem for a quick, refreshing ride.

The Idaho Canal Trail Loop offers a wonderfully relaxed touring cycling experience, perfect for unwinding on two wheels. You'll follow the gentle contours of the Idaho Canal Trail, enjoying a smooth and mostly flat path that makes for an effortless ride. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the local landscape without any strenuous effort, ideal for a casual spin.

This easy 8.6-mile (13.8 km) route with only 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 47 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick outing. Parking is typically easy to find at the trailhead, and due to its short length and minimal elevation, you won't need extensive planning. It's a popular choice for family cycling or anyone looking for beginner cycling routes in the area.

This trail stands out as one of the more accessible cycling routes in Idaho, providing a straightforward and enjoyable experience for all ages and abilities. Its flat profile along the canal makes it a unique and pleasant option compared to more challenging terrain found elsewhere. It’s a reliable choice when you want a guaranteed easy ride.

If you're seeking a substantial touring cycling adventure with big views, the Ashton-Tetonia Rail Trail Loop delivers. This difficult 61.7-mile (99.2 km) route, which includes 2104 feet (641 metres) of elevation gain, offers a journey through Idaho's scenic backcountry, often providing sweeping vistas of the majestic West Teton Range and a notable Grand Teton westside vista. Expect a long day in the saddle, as the full loop typically takes around 7 hours and 28 minutes to complete.

Planning your ride on the Ashton-Tetonia Rail Trail Loop means preparing for a full day out. Parking is usually accessible at various points along the route, but it's always a good idea to check specific trailhead access before you go. Given the distance and duration, an early start is recommended, and carrying enough water and snacks is crucial, as amenities are limited once you're on the trail.

This rail trail conversion offers a unique cycling experience, blending the relatively flat grades of former railway lines with the challenge of a long-distance loop. The primary draw is undoubtedly the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range, making it a memorable ride for those who appreciate both a physical challenge and spectacular natural scenery in the Idaho-Wyoming border region.

The Driggs to Stateline Rd & Ski Hill Rd loop offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, transitioning from the serene agricultural fields of the Teton Valley to the challenging ascents of Ski Hill Road. You'll pedal past vast farmlands with the stunning Teton Mountains as your constant backdrop, especially prominent along South Stateline Road. The route provides a rewarding blend of flat valley cruising and a significant climb, making it a great option for cyclists who enjoy varied terrain and panoramic views.

For planning your ride, consider starting from Driggs, where you'll find general parking availability. The best time to tackle this moderate 15.8-mile (25.5 km) loop, which involves 540 feet (165 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes, is during the warmer months from late spring to early fall. Be prepared for the sustained climb on Ski Hill Road, and always carry sufficient water for the duration of your ride.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the diverse cycling landscape of the Teton Valley, renowned for its strong cycling culture and picturesque scenery. It showcases the region's mix of easy valley rides and more challenging mountain roads, providing a taste of what makes cycling in the Driggs area so appealing. The unparalleled backdrop of the Teton Mountains is a major draw, offering memorable vistas throughout your journey.

The South Victor Bike Path Loop offers a delightful mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, guiding you through the scenic Caribou-Targhee National Forest. You'll pedal past the tranquil Trail Creek - Old Jackson area and enjoy expansive views of Taylor Mountain, making for a truly picturesque touring cycling experience. The route feels relaxed and inviting, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the Victor, Idaho landscape.

Planning your ride is simple, as there's a convenient parking lot located right at the trailhead. This makes it easy to get started on your adventure without any fuss. The trail is generally accessible and enjoyable for most of the year, though checking local conditions is always a good idea, especially outside of peak season.

What sets this 9.2-mile (14.9 km) loop apart is its versatility; despite being rated moderate with 633 feet (193 metres) of elevation gain, it's suitable for nearly all skill levels, taking about 1 hour and 5 minutes. Unlike more technical options like the Southern Valley Trails, this route provides a balanced blend of challenge and accessibility, making it a great choice for a wide range of touring cyclists seeking natural beauty without extreme difficulty.