Cycling newbies and regular riders agree: There’s no better way to explore a city, countryside, or any intended destination than to ride right through it. Of course, while daily jaunts are great, there’s always more to see beyond the main attractions. Guided cycling excursions—designed with varying degrees of trip length, difficulty, and cost—showcase the United States’ diverse cultures and awe-inspiring views from an unbeatable vantage. The best part: You don’t even have to wear Lycra (unless you want to, that is).

Here are five reasons you should book a trip, hop on your bike, and see the world through one of these one-in-a-lifetime experiences.

It Lets You Tap Into Your Inner Explorer

Who doesn’t crave a little adventure in their lives? Channel the nomadic lifestyle with Intrepid Travel’s Cycle Utah: Moab Mountain Biking. You’ll traverse the area’s beloved Sovereign Trails, explore the red rock formations of Canyonlands National Park, and briefly hop off on two feet to hike the steep cliffside. The six-day trip covers trails—from tarmac to slickrock and single track—to suit every rider. Accommodations include a support vehicle (though often not allowed on smaller trails), daily breakfast, hotel rooms, and more.

It’s an Eco-Friendly Way to Travel

Nearly 27 percent of harmful greenhouse gas emissions come from transport, according to the United States Environmental Protections Agency. Planes make up from 11.6 percent of that, while passenger vehicles total a whopping 45.1 percent—making the most environmentally-friendly way to travel by bike. That’s what makes a cycling tour with Intrepid Travel, who have been carbon neutral since 2010, a no-brainer. There’s never been a more exciting way to save the planet.

It’s Great Exercise

There’s no doubt about it: Spending hours on a bike each day is going to deliver a serious workout. While this may not be your primary objective, your body and overall health will thank you. Cycling can help lower your risk of developing heart disease and cancer and reduce stress. And since cycling is a low-impact activity, it’ll work your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves while going gentle on your joints.

cavan images
Cavan Images

It Connects You With Nature

What could be better than spending your days breathing in fresh air and listening to the sounds of nature? Not only is this super peaceful, it can be therapeutic. Exposure to nature can improve your memory and increase feelings of happiness, according to research. Sounds like some pretty solid reasons to try a cycling tour. During Intrepid Travel’s Cycle Utah: Bryce & Zion National Parks, you’ll be immersed in rock canyons, sandstone cliffs, and petrified sand dunes for six days. You’ll ride through some of Southern Utah’s awe-inspiring natural sights, like the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and the colorful Kodachrome Basin State Park.

You’ll Form a Community

Sure, you’re the one pedaling up and down hills, following the curve of the road, and knocking out mile after mile, but you’re not cycling solo. Riding with a group on a tour like Intrepid Travel’s Cycle Washington’s San Juan Islands has a way of fostering deeper connections and a sense of community. Six days gives you time to connect and encourage each other to push through cramps and fatigue. Not to mention, you’ll explore some pretty spectacular nature together. Think Lime Kiln Point State Park to see the Orcas, and the 2,400-foot-tall Mount Constitution. Core memories: unlocked.

Headshot of Rozalynn S. Frazier
Rozalynn S. Frazier

Rozalynn S Frazier is an award-winning, multimedia journalist, and certified personal trainer living in New York City. She has created content for SELF, Health, Essence, Runner's World, Money, Reebok, Livestrong, and others.