The 5 Best E-Bike Tours Across America
E-bikes are steadily growing in popularity across America and, with them, so are e-bike tours. It's no wonder that people are opting for e-bikes when exploring new places, as the pedal-assist feature allows riders to tackle more challenging terrain, steeper hills, and further distances with significantly less effort than a traditional bike would require. This makes cycling more accessible to a broader audience and encourages riders to go farther than they might otherwise think possible.
E-bikes are beneficial to riders and a great alternative to other group travel options like coaches and bus tours, because they are eco-friendly and active. They produce zero emissions and require less energy to manufacture than cars, and they also contribute to rider wellbeing by improving cardiovascular health and overall fitness. This makes them an ideal option for travelers hoping for a scenic and immersive experience, so it comes as no surprise that e-bike tours are in increasing demand across the country. We'll explore five of the best e-bike tours in America, considering factors like landscape, accessibility, reputation, distance, and popularity to help you choose your next e-adventure.
Zion and Bryce Canyon, Utah
Whiz past the stunning red rock formations on this multi-day route through Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. This can be completed independently or as part of a group, such as with Bicycle Adventures, which starts and finishes in St. George, Utah. Throughout this six-day adventure, you'll pass a number of sightseeing spots, watch sunrises and sunsets, and wind your way through Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.
This trip promises stretches of uphill, downhill, and flat terrain, all surrounded by mountain views and, according to Bicycling Magazine, "the most awe-inspiring and unique landscape I've ever pedaled through." The benefit of an organized tour like this is that you're promised comfortable accommodation and good food throughout the trip, as well as an expert guide to see you from start to end. Welcoming experienced cyclists and complete beginners alike, this route provides an up-close and unforgettable experience through this Utah state park with otherworldly scenery.
San Juan Islands, Washington
The San Juan Islands in Washington state are a popular destination for hikers and bikers alike, but the increase in e-bike riders has seen a rise in e-bike tours in the area. With a number of companies offering various tours and competitive rental prices, it can be daunting to have to pick just one route. We recommend circumnavigating San Juan Island itself, rather than the smaller Lopez Island, in a 35-mile loop that takes you past vineyards, historic villages, and San Juan Islands Sculpture Park.
If you prefer a longer, tailored trip, Cycle San Juan offers various customized cycling routes and e-bike tours. With reviewers taking to their bikes to tackle everything from afternoon routes to week-long trips, self-guided or private tours here promise stunning views, pedal-assisted ease, informative guides, and competitive prices. Whether you choose a day trip or something more, e-bikes make for the perfect way to explore this 'coolcation' destination in the U.S.
Napa Valley, California
Despite being home to hundreds of vineyards, there are a whole host of things to do in Napa Valley (aside from just drinking wine). Among them are a number of hiking and biking trails that wind through the picturesque countryside and seemingly endless vineyards of this European-feeling corner of California. Napa Valley Bike Tours offers full-day e-bike tours that pedal past local wineries and provide picnic lunches, perfect for a day of adventure.
Promising routes suitable for even the most casual of riders, this tour makes room for plenty of stops along the way, and you'll be in the experienced hands of tour guides brimming with knowledge of the area. With hundreds of 5-star reviews and a route that predominantly follows the Napa Valley Vine Trail bike path, this tour isn't to be missed for any keen Napa Valley explorer. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can even add a hot air balloon flight!
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
Scenic rides through the Blue Ridge Mountains, views of the Peaks of Otter, and experienced tour leaders make Timberline Adventures' 11-day cycling tour a rewarding, more advanced, adventure. Taking place later in the year, this tour makes the most of the comfortable climate and covers a distance of 586 miles, with increasing elevation throughout. While this route is aimed at more experienced riders, shuttle boosts are readily available throughout the trip should they be necessary or more comfortable for you.
While this tour is primarily a biking tour, e-bikes are very welcome and the route is adaptable for either. Because of the challenging terrain and long daily distances, this tour is particularly suitable for e-bikes, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views without worrying about wearing yourself out. It also includes lodging, meals, and notable locations along the way — all of which come with rave reviews from previous participants. E-biking this spectacular route is an unmissable experience, and if you time your trip right, you'll be cycling through one of America's most underrated fall foliage destinations.
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, Florida
Offering a unique cycling experience along a federally-recognized National Scenic Highway, this 106-mile multi-use paved path stretches from Key Largo to Key West. Typically taking about six days to complete, this flat route is ideal for e-bikes and is generally considered a very easy trail. Companies like Great Bike Tours offer a comprehensive package that includes gear rental and can be arranged for private or small groups of up to 20 people.
The tour also includes boat trips and eco-tours, as well as admission to Everglades National Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Dolphin Research Center, and Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital. Along the route, you'll enjoy beachside relaxation, the opportunity to spot local wildlife, like wading birds and alligators, and two days to explore Key West. With the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, not to mention the convenience and accessibility of e-bikes, this tour is the company's "most popular biking vacation" for a reason.
Methodology
In these five e-bike tours, we aimed to showcase a diverse range of landscapes, difficulties, and experiences. Our criteria included scenic beauty, accessibility, tour operator reputation, route distance, and popularity among cyclists. We sought to represent different regions of the United States, from the red rock formations of Utah to the coastal beauty of the Florida Keys. Each tour was chosen for its unique attributes, and we considered the availability of well-organized tours with knowledgable guides, quality bikes, and positive reviews. Our goal was to present a range of options suitable for different levels, from casual riders to more experienced cyclists, all enhanced by the accessibility that e-bikes provide.