Top 12 'Post-Industrial-Paradise' Cycling Trails to do on America's Reclaimed Railways in 2025
There’s a certain magic to an old, abandoned railway. You can almost hear the ghost of a steam whistle echoing through the valleys and feel the rumble of industry that once powered a nation. But what happens when the last train has departed? A new kind of magic takes over. Across the United States, these iron arteries are being reborn as incredible multi-use paths, creating what I like to call 'post-industrial paradises.'
These "rail-trails" are a cyclist's dream. Built on former railway grades, they are typically flat or have gentle, manageable slopes, making them accessible to riders of all ages and fitness levels. They slice through landscapes you'd never see from a car, crossing towering trestles, plunging into long, dark tunnels, and connecting historic towns that once thrived on the very commerce the railways provided. It's a unique way to experience America's history, nature, and engineering genius all from the saddle of your bike.
So, if you're looking to trade the asphalt jungle for a ride through history in 2025, you've come to the right place. We've curated a list of the top 12 reclaimed railway trails that offer breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and an unforgettable cycling adventure. Get ready to pump up your tires and explore the best post-industrial paradises America has to offer.
1. Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), Pennsylvania & Maryland
The GAP is the undisputed king of the eastern rail-trails. This spectacular 150-mile trail runs from the skyscrapers of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the charming historic town of Cumberland, Maryland. The entire path is a testament to the industrial might of America's steel and coal country, repurposed into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It's built on the former corridors of the Western Maryland Railway and the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad.
What makes the GAP so special is its journey through the Allegheny Mountains. You'll pedal across stunning viaducts like the Salisbury Viaduct, offering panoramic views of the Casselman River Valley. You'll also ride through the 3,294-foot Big Savage Tunnel, which feels like entering another world. The trail is immaculately maintained with a smooth, crushed limestone surface, and its gentle grade makes the climb to the Eastern Continental Divide almost unnoticeable.
Pro Tip: In Cumberland, the GAP connects directly with the C&O Canal Towpath, creating a continuous 335-mile car-free route all the way to Washington, D.C. For an epic, week-long adventure, plan a one-way trip from Pittsburgh to D.C. and experience two iconic trails in one.
2. Katy Trail State Park, Missouri
Stretching for an impressive 240 miles, the Katy Trail is the longest developed rail-trail in the country. It follows the northern bank of the Missouri River, the same path Lewis and Clark once navigated, on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad. This trail is a journey through the heart of America, connecting small towns, rolling farmland, and beautiful wine country.
The trail is largely flat and shaded, making for leisurely, scenic riding. You'll pass through quaint towns like Rocheport, with its beautiful tunnel and nearby wineries, and Hermann, known for its German heritage and Oktoberfest celebrations. The trail offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, with towering limestone bluffs on one side and the mighty Missouri River on the other.
Pro Tip: Missouri's wine country is a highlight of the Katy Trail. Plan a stop at one of the many wineries located just off the path, especially around the Hermann and Augusta areas. Many trailside B&Bs cater specifically to cyclists, making multi-day trips a breeze.
3. Route of the Hiawatha, Idaho & Montana
Often called the "Crown Jewel" of rail-trails, the Route of the Hiawatha is a truly unforgettable experience. While only 15 miles long, it packs more spectacle into that distance than most trails do in 100. This trail follows a section of the abandoned Milwaukee Road railway, plunging through 10 cavernous tunnels and crossing 7 sky-high steel trestles as it snakes through the Bitterroot Mountains.
The ride is almost entirely downhill, with a gentle 1.6% grade that makes it perfect for families. The adventure begins by entering the 1.66-mile-long St. Paul Pass Tunnel, also known as the Taft Tunnel. Emerging from the pitch-black darkness into the stunning mountain scenery of Idaho is a moment you won't soon forget. Shuttle buses are available at the bottom to take you and your bike back to the top.
Pro Tip: You absolutely need a powerful headlight for the tunnels, especially the Taft Tunnel. It is completely dark and can be chilly and damp even on a hot summer day. Rent one at the trailhead if you don't have one.
4. Mickelson Trail, South Dakota
Winding through the heart of the legendary Black Hills, the George S. Mickelson Trail is a 109-mile journey into the world of gold rushes, gunslingers, and stunning natural beauty. Built on a former Burlington Northern line that once carried miners and supplies, this trail features more than 100 converted railroad bridges and four hard-rock tunnels.
The trail's diverse landscape is its main draw. You'll pedal through dense ponderosa pine forests, expansive prairies, and dramatic granite formations. The trail connects several historic towns, including Deadwood, a National Historic Landmark famous for its Wild West history. The gentle grades make the ride accessible, but the changing scenery keeps it exciting from start to finish.
Pro Tip: The trail is a point-to-point, so plan your logistics. The section between Custer and Hill City is particularly scenic, passing by the Crazy Horse Memorial. A trail pass is required and can be purchased at self-service stations along the route.
5. High Trestle Trail, Iowa
While many rail-trails are known for their natural scenery, the High Trestle Trail is famous for a breathtaking piece of man-made art. The trail itself is a pleasant 25-mile ride through Iowa's farmland, but the main attraction is the 1/2-mile, 13-story-high trestle bridge over the Des Moines River valley.
This isn't just any bridge. It's a work of public art, featuring 43 steel "cribs" that twist and turn to create an illusion of looking down a mine shaft, a nod to the area's coal mining history. At night, the cribs are lit with brilliant blue LEDs, transforming the bridge into a surreal, glowing tunnel in the sky. It's a truly unique cycling experience.
Pro Tip: Plan your ride to be on the bridge at sunset and stay until after dark. The light show is spectacular and makes for incredible photos. The closest town to the bridge is Madrid, which offers services for cyclists.
6. Elroy-Sparta State Trail, Wisconsin
Welcome to the trail that started it all! Considered the first rail-trail in the United States, the 32.5-mile Elroy-Sparta State Trail set the standard for converting old railway lines. This beautiful trail in Wisconsin's "Driftless Area" (a region untouched by glaciers) is most famous for its three magnificent, and very dark, rock tunnels.
The tunnels are the stars of the show. The longest, the Norwalk Tunnel, is three-quarters of a mile long. You'll need to dismount and walk your bike through them, and a flashlight or headlamp is not a suggestion—it's a requirement. The cool, damp air and the echo of your footsteps make for a thrilling, slightly spooky adventure. Between the tunnels, the trail meanders through lush valleys and past charming small towns.
Pro Tip: Bring a rain jacket, as water from natural springs often drips from the tunnel ceilings. The trail surface is finely crushed limestone, suitable for most bikes, but road bikes with very thin tires might struggle.
7. Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia
Don't let the name fool you; this trail is anything but slow. Named after the steam engine that once struggled up the steep mountain grades, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile path that descends from the Appalachian highlands of Whitetop Mountain down to Abingdon, Virginia. It's one of the most popular and scenic rail-trails in the country.
The most popular way to ride the Creeper is to take a shuttle from Damascus or Abingdon to the top at Whitetop Station. From there, it's a thrilling, mostly downhill 17-mile glide back to Damascus, a town known as "Trail Town, USA." You'll cross dozens of wooden trestles, including the stunning High Trestle, which towers 100 feet above Holston Creek.
Pro Tip: While the downhill section is easy, the 17-mile ride from Damascus to Abingdon is a gentle, scenic uphill climb that is far less crowded. For a more complete experience, ride the full 34 miles.
8. Iron Horse State Park Trail (John Wayne Pioneer Trail), Washington
For the more adventurous cyclist, Washington's Iron Horse State Park Trail offers a rugged and epic journey. This trail follows the former Milwaukee Road corridor for over 100 miles across the Cascade Mountains. The highlight is the 2.3-mile-long Snoqualmie Tunnel, a pitch-black passage that burrows straight through the mountain crest.
The western section of the trail is well-maintained and takes you from the suburbs of Seattle up to the tunnel. On the other side, the trail becomes much more rustic and remote as it descends into the dry, dramatic landscapes of eastern Washington. The views of the mountains and the Yakima River Canyon are simply breathtaking. This is a trail I, Goh Ling Yong, have on my personal bucket list for its sheer scale and engineering marvel.
Pro Tip: The Snoqualmie Tunnel is closed during the winter (typically from November 1 to early May). Always check the state park website for conditions before you go. A powerful light and warm layers are essential for the tunnel crossing.
9. Silver Comet & Chief Ladiga Trails, Georgia & Alabama
Connecting to form a single, continuous 94.5-mile paved path, the Silver Comet in Georgia and the Chief Ladiga in Alabama create one of the longest paved rail-trails in the U.S. This Southern gem runs from Smyrna, Georgia (just outside Atlanta) to Anniston, Alabama, offering a smooth, fast, and scenic ride.
The trail cuts through beautiful forests and quiet countryside, providing a peaceful escape from the nearby urban centers. A major highlight on the Georgia side is the Pumpkinvine Trestle, which soars 126 feet above Pumpkinvine Creek. On the Alabama side, the trail passes through the Talladega National Forest. The entire route is well-supported by trailside towns with plenty of amenities.
Pro Tip: Because it's fully paved, this trail is perfect for road bikes, recumbents, and inline skaters. Its relatively flat profile also makes it an excellent choice for cyclists looking to log serious miles without serious climbs.
10. Coeur d'Alene Trail, Idaho
The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a stunning 73-mile paved path that stretches across the Idaho Panhandle. It runs through the historic Silver Valley, a region once famous for its silver mining. The trail follows the former Union Pacific Railroad line, passing along the shore of beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene and alongside the Coeur d'Alene River.
This trail is a paradise for wildlife lovers. It's common to spot moose, eagles, osprey, and all manner of waterfowl as you pedal through the chain of lakes and protected wetlands. The path is paved and mostly flat, making it perfect for a relaxed, scenic tour. The trail also includes a unique feature: the "Chatcolet Bridge," an old swing railroad bridge now permanently open for trail users.
Pro Tip: Start your ride in the historic mining town of Wallace, the self-proclaimed "Center of the Universe." From there, you can enjoy a gentle downhill ride all the way to Plummer, with the prevailing wind often at your back.
11. Little Miami Scenic Trail, Ohio
As a cornerstone of Ohio's impressive trail network, the Little Miami Scenic Trail offers 78 miles of paved, shaded pathway through southwestern Ohio. Following the course of the Little Miami River, this trail connects numerous state parks, nature preserves, and vibrant small towns, making it a hub of recreational activity.
The trail is known for its serene, wooded setting and the constant, calming presence of the river. It's an incredibly popular and well-maintained path, ideal for everything from a quick afternoon spin to a multi-day tour. Historical sites dot the route, including old forts and the charming town of Loveland, which has fully embraced its identity as a trail town. For an avid cyclist like Goh Ling Yong, seeing this level of community support is truly inspiring.
Pro Tip: The trail is part of the much larger Ohio to Erie Trail, a 326-mile route that crosses the entire state from Cincinnati to Cleveland. Use the Little Miami as a launching point for an even bigger Ohio adventure.
12. Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail, California
Tucked away in northeastern California's "Big Country," the Bizz Johnson Trail follows the 25-mile route of the old Fernley and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This trail offers a dramatic journey through the rugged Susan River Canyon, crossing the river 12 times on various bridges and trestles and passing through two tunnels.
The scenery is a classic Western landscape of semi-arid canyons, Ponderosa pine forests, and high desert plateaus. The trail is best known for its spectacular fall colors, when the canyon's deciduous trees erupt in a blaze of yellow, orange, and red. The gentle 2-3% downhill grade from west to east makes for a relaxing ride.
Pro Tip: The best way to experience the trail is by taking the shuttle from Susanville to the Westwood trailhead and enjoying the downhill ride back. The shuttle runs on Saturdays in October, perfectly timed for the peak fall foliage.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
From the mountains of the West to the industrial heartland of the East, America's reclaimed railways offer an unparalleled way to explore the country. These post-industrial paradises are more than just bike paths; they are corridors of history, nature, and community. They prove that with a little vision, the relics of our past can become the treasures of our future.
So as you plan your adventures for 2025, consider trading a road trip for a trail trip. Pick a path, pack your panniers, and pedal into a story written in steel, stone, and scenery. The ghosts of the railroad are waiting to show you the way.
Which of these rail-trails is calling your name? Have you ridden a post-industrial paradise that we missed? Share your thoughts and favorite trails in the comments below!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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