The Most Instagram-Worthy Bike Touring Destinations in the US
The Appeal of Bike Touring as a Way to Experience the US
Bike touring is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the beauty and diversity of the United States. It allows cyclists to connect with nature, explore hidden gems, and immerse themselves in the culture of different regions—while also providing ample opportunities to capture unforgettable moments. Whether you’re cycling through serene countryside, coastal routes, or mountain trails, bike touring offers an unmatched way to see the world up close, all while staying active and engaged with your surroundings.
Instagram-Worthy Destinations: Breathtaking Landscapes and Unique Scenery
When it comes to capturing moments on your bike tour, certain destinations stand out for their breathtaking landscapesand unique scenery. These Instagram-worthy spots are more than just beautiful—they offer picture-perfect views, stunning natural features, and photogenic backdrops that make for the best travel photos. Whether it’s a sunset over a mountain range, a coastal cliff, or a quiet national park trail, these destinations provide cyclists with an array of opportunities to snap and share beautiful images.
Overview of the Article
In this article, we’ll take you through the top bike touring destinations in the US that are perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. From iconic coastlines to remote deserts, we’ll explore scenic routes that offer fantastic photography opportunities. Whether you’re an amateur photographer looking to improve your skills or a seasoned pro seeking the next great shot, these destinations will inspire you to pack your camera and hit the road. Let’s dive into these amazing bike routes and uncover the hidden photo gems waiting to be captured.
Table of Contents
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Iconic ocean views and coastal landscapes.
Key spots for photography along the route.
Route 66
The historic appeal of Route 66 for cyclists.
Must-visit landmarks and scenic views for capturing the essence of Americana.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina
Beautiful mountain views and rolling hills.
Best places to stop for photo ops along the Parkway.
Moab, Utah
Stunning desert landscapes and red rock formations.
The most Instagram-worthy spots in Moab for cyclists.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Coastal cliffs and forested trails that are perfect for photography.
Photography tips for capturing Acadia’s natural beauty.
Great Allegheny Passage, Pennsylvania/Maryland
Lush landscapes, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Best spots for photo ops along the trail.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Unique badlands and wildlife in a serene setting.
The most Instagram-worthy moments to capture on a bike tour.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Coastal vistas and charming small towns perfect for a bike tour.
Best photography spots around the islands.
Zion National Park, Utah
Breathtaking red rock formations and canyons.
Best routes and angles for capturing Zion’s beauty from the saddle.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Scenic lake views and surrounding mountains.
The best cycling routes for stunning lakeside photos.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Iconic Ocean Views
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is widely regarded as one of the most photogenic bike touring routes in the US, offering breathtaking ocean views and dramatic cliffside landscapes. Riding along this iconic highway provides cyclists with a unique opportunity to capture the raw beauty of the California coastline. With every turn, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves, making it a paradise for both cyclists and photographers. The natural beauty of the PCH is hard to beat, and each stretch offers its own unique perspective of the coastline that’s perfect for capturing on camera.
Key Photography Spots
Big Sur:
Known for its rugged cliffs and dramatic coastline, Big Sur is one of the most iconic and photographed areas along the PCH. The stunning contrast of mountains meeting the sea creates dramatic backdrops for any photo, particularly during the golden hour when the light softens and enhances the natural hues of the coastline.
Bixby Creek Bridge:
The Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks on the PCH. Its elegant arch and towering presence set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean make it a perfect spot for Instagram photos. It’s an iconic structure that captures the essence of the highway’s beauty.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve:
Often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the California State Parks, Point Lobos is a must-visit for cyclists and photographers alike. The wildlife, rocky coastline, and crystal-clear waters offer plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, whether you’re capturing the natural scenery or the rich marine life.
Route 66
Historic Appeal
Route 66, often called the Main Street of America, is more than just a bike route—it’s a historic journey through the heart of the United States. As one of the most iconic and culturally significant roads in the country, Route 66 offers cyclists a unique opportunity to experience America’s past while riding through diverse landscapes. The route has long been celebrated in pop culture, making it a bucket-list ride for many cyclists. Along the way, you’ll encounter retro charm, quirky towns, and classic landmarks that reflect the essence of mid-century America, offering endless Instagram-worthy moments.
Must-Visit Landmarks
Cadillac Ranch:
Located just outside of Amarillo, Texas, Cadillac Ranch is a well-known roadside attraction featuring half-buried Cadillac cars covered in colorful graffiti. It’s a unique, photogenic site where cyclists can capture both a quirky piece of Americana and vibrant art. It’s an ideal spot to snap an iconic photo that perfectly encapsulates the retro spirit of Route 66.
Gateway Arch:
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, serves as a stunning symbol of the westward expansion of the United States. Towering over the city, this architectural marvel provides a fantastic photo op. Whether you capture it from the ground level or from the Mississippi River, it’s a must-see landmark on Route 66 that reflects the historic journey that the route represents.
Quirky Roadside Attractions:
Along Route 66, you’ll encounter a variety of quirky roadside attractions that are perfect for photography, such as giant dinosaurs, retro diners, and classic motels. These spots are a blend of nostalgia and charm, offering cyclists a chance to photograph the vintage Americana that made Route 66 famous. Keep your camera ready as you ride through towns like Seligman, Arizona, and Barstow, California, for plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina
Mountain Views
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a cyclist’s dream, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Appalachian mountain range, rolling hills, and dense forests. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic highway offers incredible photo opportunities at every turn. As you cycle along the route, you can capture the beauty of the mountains changing colors with the seasons—from vibrant spring blooms to fiery fall foliage. The misty mornings and the sweeping landscapesprovide perfect backdrops for stunning landscape shots. Whether you’re snapping photos at high altitudes or riding through lush valleys, this route offers a wealth of photogenic vistas.
Best Photography Stops
Linville Falls:
A must-see for cyclists, Linville Falls is a striking waterfall that offers great photo opportunities. Capture the falls framed by mountain landscapes or photograph the falls from different perspectives as the river cascades down the rocks. The surrounding scenery, with its lush greenery and dramatic cliffs, makes it a top destination for nature photography.
Craggy Gardens:
A perfect stop for cycling photographers, Craggy Gardens is known for its breathtaking views and wild mountain laurel blooms in the spring. The craggy peaks and panoramic vistas offer ample opportunities for wide shots and close-up floral photography, especially during the peak bloom season when the area comes alive with color.
Falling Waters:
Falling Waters is another beautiful spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers amazing photo opportunities. Capture the dramatic waterfalls, the dense woodlands, and the mountain ranges in the background. The area provides various scenic overlooks where you can take stunning landscape shots and action photos as you cycle through the picturesque surroundings.
Moab, Utah
Desert Beauty
Moab, Utah, is a paradise for cyclists and photographers alike, offering a unique desert landscape filled with red rock formations, dramatic canyons, and sweeping desert vistas. Known for its distinctive terrain, Moab is perfect for cyclists looking to capture the raw beauty of the desert. The rugged scenery provides plenty of opportunities to photograph sandstone cliffs, arched rock formations, and dramatic desert sunsets. Whether you’re cycling along rugged trails or through famous national parks, Moab’s stark beauty creates unforgettable moments waiting to be captured.
Instagram-Worthy Spots
Arches National Park:
Arches National Park is home to some of the most photogenic landscapes in the US, making it an essential stop for photographers. The park’s iconic red rock arches, including Delicate Arch and Double Arch, are perfect for capturing both wide landscape shots and intimate close-ups of the stunning rock formations. The vibrant sunset light enhances the red and orange hues of the rocks, creating dynamic and stunning shots.
Canyonlands:
The vast Canyonlands National Park offers expansive views of rugged canyons and rock formations, perfect for panoramic shots. The Island in the Sky section provides some of the best overlooks where you can capture sweeping views of the Colorado River and deep canyons. The park is great for wide-angle shots and vibrant landscape photography.
Fisher Towers:
Fisher Towers offers a more unique desert landscape, with dramatic rock spires rising from the ground. The deep red towers create a striking contrast against the blue sky and are a perfect subject for both landscape and abstract photography. This area offers various viewpoints along the biking trail, where cyclists can stop to take incredible shots of these otherworldly formations.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Coastal Cliffs and Trails
Acadia National Park is a true gem for cyclists and photographers alike, offering a stunning combination of coastal cliffs, serene beach views, and lush wooded trails. With its diverse landscapes, Acadia provides endless opportunities to capture both dramatic landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re cycling along the rugged coastline or through the park’s dense forests, the park’s beauty unfolds at every turn. Acadia’s coastal cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, while the winding wooded trails provide a quieter, more intimate look at the park’s natural surroundings. This variety makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to capture the essence of nature through their lens.
Photography Tips
Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain:
Cadillac Mountain is famous for being one of the first places in the United States to see the sunrise. It’s the perfect spot to capture early morning light over the park’s rugged coastline. Arrive early to catch the golden hour, where the sunlight softens the landscape and casts a warm glow over the surrounding mountain peaks and ocean views.
The Thunder Hole:
Another iconic spot within the park, Thunder Hole offers a dramatic opportunity to capture the power of the ocean. During high tide, the waves crash into the rocks, creating a thunderous sound and impressive splashes. Long exposure shots can be used here to capture the motion of the water, while the surrounding coastal cliffs provide an impressive backdrop.
Serene Lakes and Ponds:
Acadia is also home to peaceful lakes and ponds, such as Jordan Pond, where cyclists can capture reflections of the surrounding forests and mountains. The calm waters provide the perfect opportunity for mirror-like shots, especially during early morning or evening when the water is still and the lighting is softer.
Great Allegheny Passage, Pennsylvania/Maryland
Lush Greenery and Historic Charm
The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is one of the most scenic and historic bike routes in the US. Spanning over 150 miles through Pennsylvania and Maryland, it offers cyclists a chance to experience the best of both nature and history. The route is known for its lush greenery, peaceful forests, and charming small towns. Along the way, cyclists ride past waterfalls, gorges, and old railroad bridges, offering plenty of opportunities for scenic photography. The path’s historical significance combined with its natural beauty makes it an unforgettable ride for both adventure cyclists and photographers.
Photography Stops
Ohiopyle State Park:
Ohiopyle State Park is one of the most photogenic locations along the GAP. The park’s waterfalls, including the Ohiopyle Falls, provide stunning photo opportunities, especially during the spring thaw when the waters are at their most powerful. The rugged terrain and lush forests around the falls offer a great contrast for photography, with plenty of wide shots and close-up details of nature to capture.
Cumberland:
The historic town of Cumberland is the starting point for the GAP, and it provides some great urban landscape shots as cyclists approach the city. The railroad heritage is visible throughout the town, with several old train stations and historic buildings. The Cumberland Rail Trail also provides some excellent views of the town and the surrounding mountain ridges, making it an ideal location for both wide-angle and historical shots.
C&O Canal Towpath:
The C&O Canal Towpath, which runs parallel to the GAP, offers cyclists a peaceful route along the Potomac River. The canal’s historic locks, stone paths, and rustic bridges provide great photo opportunities, especially for capturing the contrasts between nature and history. The lush greenery along the path adds a fresh backdrop, making it perfect for capturing both nature shots and historical landmarks.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Badlands and Wildlife
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a hidden gem for both cyclists and photographers, offering some of the most rugged badlands and wildlife encounters in the United States. Located in western North Dakota, the park’s rugged terrain, wide-open prairies, and rolling hills provide a breathtaking landscape for exploration. Cyclists can experience the vast, remote beauty of the badlands, with its dramatic rock formations and colorful cliffs. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including wild bison, elk, and wild horses, making it an ideal location for nature photography.
Photo Opportunities
Wild Bison Herds:
One of the most iconic sights in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the wild bison herds roaming freely through the landscape. These majestic animals can be captured in dynamic shots, either in motion or grazing in the expansive fields. The wide-open prairies provide a dramatic backdrop for photographing the bison in their natural habitat.
Unique Rock Formations:
The park’s badlands offer distinctive rock formations, including deep canyons and towering spires. The unique geological features make for excellent landscape photography, especially during sunset when the warm light highlights the textures and colors of the rocks.
Sunset Over the Prairies:
The sunset over the park’s expansive prairies offers some of the most stunning golden hour shots. The vast horizon, combined with the changing colors of the sky, creates the perfect setting for wide-angle photos. Capture the stunning silhouette of wildlife against the backdrop of a glowing sunset for a truly captivating shot.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Coastal Vistas and Towns
The San Juan Islands in Washington offer cyclists a scenic, laid-back experience perfect for capturing stunning coastal vistas and charming small towns. With its quaint harbors, lush hills, and sweeping sea views, the San Juan Islands provide an ideal setting for both relaxed cycling and photography. Cycling through the islands gives you access to serene coastal paths and breathtaking overlooks, all while allowing for easy stops to take photos of the islands’ idyllic scenery. Whether you’re cycling around Orcas Island, San Juan Island, or Lime Kiln Point, there’s no shortage of photogenic locations along the way.
Best Photo Locations
Lime Kiln Point State Park:
Lime Kiln Point State Park offers one of the best views of the Salish Sea and is renowned for being a great location to capture whale watching shots. The park’s historic lighthouse is another iconic photography subject, offering the perfect blend of nature, sea, and history. This location is ideal for sunset shots, where the warm light illuminates the landscape and the lighthouse.
San Juan Island:
The rolling hills and harbor views of San Juan Island provide a picturesque backdrop for both landscape and architectural photography. The island is dotted with charming towns, vineyards, and beaches, making it a wonderful place to capture the peaceful essence of life on the coast.
Orcas Island:
The viewpoints on Orcas Island, such as Mount Constitution, offer sweeping panoramic views of the islands, surrounding waters, and mountain ranges. From the summit, cyclists can capture expansive views of the entire archipelago and the Pacific Northwest coastline. The island’s lush landscapes and rugged coastlines make it one of the most photogenic places in the region.
Zion National Park, Utah
Red Rocks and Canyons
Zion National Park in Utah is renowned for its towering red rock formations and deep canyons, offering some of the most epic photo opportunities for cyclists. The park’s rugged beauty and vibrant colors create a dynamic backdrop for capturing action shots and landscape photography. Cycling through Zion provides access to some of the park’s most striking landscapes, including sandstone cliffs, rugged trails, and flowing rivers, all of which lend themselves to stunning photography. With dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, Zion’s terrain is perfect for cyclists seeking to capture both the grandeur of the landscape and the small details of nature.
Key Locations
Angels Landing:
One of Zion’s most iconic landmarks, Angels Landing offers jaw-dropping views from the top, accessible by a challenging but rewarding hike. Cyclists can capture the panoramic vistas of the park’s canyons and high cliffsfrom a distance, with the backdrop of red rock formations creating a perfect shot. The light changes throughout the day, providing different opportunities for capturing contrast and depth.
The Narrows:
The Narrows is one of the park’s most photogenic spots, where you can capture the dramatic canyon walls and the Virgin River that runs through them. Cyclists can photograph the narrow passageways and towering rock formations, while the play of light and shadow creates a truly unique setting. Shots from the riverside or high above offer a range of creative compositions.
Canyon Overlook Trail:
For a more accessible viewpoint, the Canyon Overlook Trail provides cyclists with the perfect spot for sweeping landscape shots. The viewpoint offers a stunning overlook of Zion Canyon, including the famous checkerboard mesa and expansive canyon views, making it one of the best places to capture the beauty of Zion from above.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Scenic Lake Views
Cycling around Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, gives cyclists the opportunity to capture crystal-clear lake views, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful beaches. The area offers incredible diversity in landscapes, from alpine forests to lakeside views, providing cyclists with endless opportunities for stunning photographs. Whether cycling along the lakefront or through the surrounding mountains, Lake Tahoe provides the ideal setting for nature and landscape photography. The glimmering lake against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains creates one of the most picturesque environments in the US.
Best Cycling Routes
Lake Tahoe Rim Trail:
The Lake Tahoe Rim Trail offers cyclists one of the best ways to explore the region’s natural beauty. The trail runs for over 170 miles, offering sweeping views of the lake from various angles. From high-altitude vistas to shoreline paths, the trail provides cyclists with plenty of photo opportunities, especially at scenic overlooks where you can capture the reflection of the mountains in the lake. This is the perfect route for panoramic shots, highlighting the alpine scenery and the clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe.
Cyclists can also stop at iconic lakeside spots such as Sand Harbor, where the rocky beaches and clear waters create perfect photo opportunities for both wide-angle shots and detailed close-ups. The mountain ridgelines surrounding the lake provide dramatic backdrops for photos that capture the peaceful beauty of the area.
Conclusion
Recap the Best Instagram-Worthy Bike Tours
Throughout this article, we’ve explored some of the most Instagram-worthy bike touring destinations across the United States, where breathtaking landscapes and unique photo opportunities await cyclists. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway with its cliffside ocean views to the rugged beauty of Zion National Park, each destination offers stunning vistas that are perfect for capturing unforgettable moments. Whether you’re cycling along the Great Allegheny Passage, through the desert landscapes of Moab, or around the lakefront views of Lake Tahoe, these locations promise unmatched scenic beauty that will make your photos stand out on social media.
Encourage Readers to Share
We’d love to see how you’ve captured these scenic views! Share your Instagram-worthy bike tour photos with us and inspire others to explore these incredible destinations. Whether you’ve taken landscape shots, wildlife portraits, or action shots while cycling, your photos help to bring these stunning landscapes to life and encourage others to take the ride. Don’t forget to tag your photos and share them on social media to inspire fellow cyclists and photographers.
Call to Action
Ready for your next bike tour adventure? Plan your trip to one of these amazing destinations, and don’t miss the chance to capture breathtaking photos along the way. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the Pacific Coast, capturing desert beauty in Moab, or exploring hidden gems across the country, your journey will provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Start preparing, pack your camera gear, and embark on your next adventure—your Instagram feed will thank you!