16 Recommended Winter Electric Bike Routes in the U.S.

Outdoor activities are more fun in the winter, and electric riding is a great way to enjoy it. In the U.S., there are a lot of different tracks for riders of all skill levels, from snowy trails to easy coastal paths. These paths are great for winter because they are accessible to people who like both cold air and warmer weather. If you plan ahead, they can make for an exciting ride.

1. Methow Valley, Washington

One of the best places to hike in the U.S. is Methow Valley, which has more than 120 miles (200 kilometers) of paved trails, making it one of the biggest systems for winter sports in the country. Some of the trails where fat riding is allowed are at Pearrygin Lake State Park, Lloyd Ranch, and the Loup Loup Ski Bowl Nordic area.

Requirements: A Methow Trails pass is required to access groomed trails. Riders must use fat bikes with tires wider than 3.6 inches and pressures below 10 psi.

Tips: Rentals are available at local shops. Always check daily trail conditions on the Methow Trails website before heading out.

2. CAMBA Trails, Wisconsin

The Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association(CAMBA) takes care of 50–60 miles of groomed winter fat bike paths in Bayfield and Sawyer Counties. The Chequamegon National Forest is home to these trails, which offer a mix of beautiful forest views and difficult terrain.

Regulations: Biking is prohibited on state-funded snowmobile trails and groomed ski trails. Riders should stick to designated fat bike trails to avoid conflicts and preserve trail conditions.

Best Practices: Check trail conditions daily on the CAMBA website. Plowed town roads in the area also offer additional winter biking options.

3. Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Minnesota

Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which is close to Minneapolis, has more than 12 miles of single-track mountain biking paths that can be used all year. Even though they aren't designed for winter fat biking, these wooded roads are still great for experienced cyclists who want to go for a ride in the snow.

Additional Activities: The park also features cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, along with a visitor center offering maps and amenities.

Practical Information: Trail use fees apply for cross-country skiing but not for biking. Parking is free at trailheads like the West Trailhead on Johnny Cake Ridge Road.

4. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Anchorage, Alaska

This paved 11-mile trail goes from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park along Cook Inlet. On clear days, you can see Mount Susitna (Sleeping Lady), Denali, and shoreline marshes. Animals, like moose and bald eagles, can often be seen.

Unique Features: The trail passes through Earthquake Park and Point
E-Bike Access: E-bikes are allowed on motorized trails but not on non-motorized ones like Slickrock. Check local regulations which trails permit e-bikes.
Tips: Ride early in the day to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water, as conditions can be dry even in winter.
Tips for Riders: Fat tire bikes can be rented from local shops in Anchorage. Be prepared for icy sections by equipping your bike with studded tires if needed. Dress warmly in layers to stay comfortable during your ride.

5. The Legacy Trail, Florida

This 23-mile paved trail goes from Sarasota to Venice and used to be a train corridor. It goes through wetlands, natural areas, and homes in the suburbs.

Key Features: The trail includes shaded benches, water fountains, and interpretive signs about local history and wildlife. It also links to the Venetian Waterway Park Trail, adding 9 more miles along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Tips: Parking is available at trailheads like the Historic Venice Train Depot and Culverhouse Nature Park. Nearby attractions include Oscar Scherer State Park for hiking or kayaking.

6. Marvin Braude Bike Trail, California

Known as "The Strand," this 22-mile paved path runs along the Los Angeles County coastline from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. It passes through spots like Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.

Key Features: The mostly flat trail offers ocean views and access to restaurants, shops, and scenic stops like Dockweiler State Beach. Separate lanes for cyclists and pedestrians are available in many areas.

Tips: Bike rentals are available near Santa Monica Pier. To avoid crowds, ride early in the morning or on weekdays.

7. Spanish Moss Trail, South Carolina

This 10-mile paved rail-trail runs through Beaufort County in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. It follows the historic Magnolia Line Railroad corridor and features views of marshes and tidal creeks.

Key Features: Highlights include restored trestles like the Mather Trestle for fishing or enjoying the view. Historical markers along the route provide insight into the area's past.

Tips: Parking is available at trailheads such as Depot Road and Broome Lane. The flat terrain makes it easy for riders of all levels.

8. Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

This trail goes from Key Largo to Key West and follows the route of the old Overseas Railroad for 106 miles. About 90 miles of the road are paved and away from traffic. Along the way, you can see blue water and mangroves.

Key Features: The trail includes 23 converted railroad bridges like the Seven Mile Bridge, where you can ride above open water. Scenic overlooks and fishing piers add to its appeal.

Tips: Some sections require sharing the road with vehicles on U.S. Highway 1, so plan accordingly. Bring sun protection as shade is limited.

9. Minuteman Bikeway, Massachusetts

Beginning in Bedford and ending at Alewife Station in Cambridge, this paved trail is 10 miles long. At times during the American Revolution, Paul Revere rode along this road. It goes through historic towns like Lexington and Arlington.

Key Features: Along the way, you can visit sites like Lexington Battle Green and Buckman Tavern. The trail also connects to others, such as the Alewife Linear Park.

Tips: The bikeway is plowed in winter, making it usable year-round. Bikes are allowed on the MBTA Red Line during off-peak hours for easy access to the trailhead at Alewife Station.

10. Central Park Loop, New York City

The 6.1-mile loop in Central Park is a beautiful way to see one of New York City's most famous sights. During the winter, the park is less busy and often has light snow on the ground, which makes it feel calm.

Key Features: Riders can pass by Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Reservoir while enjoying the park’s iconic scenery. The loop is shared with runners and walkers but remains bike-friendly year-round.

Tips: Stick to designated cycling paths and ride counter-clockwise around the loop. E-bike rentals are available near park entrances like Columbus Circle. Be cautious of icy spots on colder days.

11. National Mall, Washington, D.C.

Some of the most famous sites in the U.S. can be seen from the National Mall, which is a flat and easy path. The two-mile stretch between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial is a nice place to take a slow winter ride.

Key Features: Highlights include the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial. Riders can also take a loop around the Tidal Basin for views of memorials and the Potomac River.

Tips: Bikes aren’t allowed inside memorials but can be parked nearby. Rentals are available at Capital Bikeshare stations or local shops near the Mall.

12. Moab Brand Trails, Utah

Located just outside Moab, the Brand Trails system offers options for all skill levels. Easier trails like Bar M and Lazy-EZ are great for beginners, while experienced riders can take on more challenging routes such as Rockin’ A or Killer B. The trails are surrounded by Moab’s iconic red rock formations.

E-Bike Access: E-bikes are allowed on motorized trails but not on non-motorized ones like Slickrock. Check local regulations which trails permit e-bikes.

Tips: Ride early in the day to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water, as conditions can be dry even in winter.

13. Mammoth Lakes Trail System, California

The Mammoth Lakes area features over 300 miles of trails, including the popular Lakes Basin Path. This route takes riders through alpine forests and past scenic spots like Lake Mary and Twin Falls Overlook.

E-Bike Access: Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on paved multi-use paths and some OHV routes in Inyo National Forest but not on non-motorized dirt trails outside designated areas.

Tips: Winter conditions can make some trails icy or snowy, so check the weather before heading out. Rentals and maps are available at local shops.

14. Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Sections near Asheville, such as Graveyard Fields or Devil’s Courthouse, feature winding roads and scenic overlooks that showcase the area’s natural beauty.

E-Bike Access: E-bikes are permitted on paved roads but not on hiking trails or other non-motorized paths. The parkway has no dedicated bike lanes, so riders should be cautious on steep climbs and descents.

Tips: Use lights when riding through tunnels and dress in layers to stay comfortable as temperatures can vary along the route.

15. Katy Trail, Missouri

Stretching 240 miles across Missouri, the Katy Trail is the longest continuous rail-trail in the United States. It follows the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT), running alongside the Missouri River for much of its length. The trail passes through small towns, farmland, and limestone bluffs, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Trail Surface: The trail is made of packed crushed limestone, which provides a smooth ride for most bikes, including e-bikes.

Key Features: Highlights include Rocheport’s historic tunnel and scenic bluffs, as well as access to wineries and quaint towns like Augusta and Hermann. The trail also intersects with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.

Tips: There are 26 trailheads along the route with amenities like restrooms and parking. Winter riders should dress warmly and check weather conditions, as parts of the trail can become icy.

16. Hudson Valley Rail Trail, New York

Located in Ulster County, New York, this 7-mile paved trail connects Highland to New Paltz and serves as part of the larger Empire State Trail. The route begins near the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, a 1.5-mile pedestrian bridge offering stunning views of the Hudson River.

Trail Surface: The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is fully paved, making it ideal for e-bikes and other recreational uses year-round.

Key Features: Riders can enjoy views of forests, wetlands, and open fields along with access to charming towns like Highland. The trail also connects seamlessly to the Walkway Over the Hudson and continues into New Paltz for additional exploration.

Tips: Parking is available at multiple locations, including Tony Williams Town Park in Highland. Be cautious on colder days when frost may create slippery patches.

Make the Most of Winter on Your Electric Bike!

With your electric bike, winter is a great time to see the different scenery and trails across the U.S. There is something for every rider to enjoy, from cold mountain trails to warm ocean routes, from historic city trails to beautiful rail-trails. These carefully chosen routes include beautiful nature, important cultural sites, and easy-to-use paths. This makes them perfect for both fun and rest. Riding in the winter can be safe and fun if you pay enough attention to how the trails are in and calculate the range of your bike you this winter.