10 Best Bike Tours in the U.S.

Known for climbing hotspots like Sex Cave, lots of people know how good Milton Reimer’s Ranch is for its rock formations. Mountain bikers and hikers also know it well for its 20 miles of trails (and growing), including everything from beginner-friendly strolls to pro-level, Triple Black Diamond singletrack. It’s even a great destination for horseback riding, as it features several equestrian-only trails. With its access to the Pedernales River, Reimer’s Ranch also offers a great relief for swimmers seeking an alternative when they get turned away from the easily crowded Hamilton Pool, just down the road. And at only about a half-hour from Downtown Austin, it’s an easy day trip for anyone wanting to get out of the city and into Hill Country nature. Reimers Pool in the fall Dave Brown First opened in 2005, Reimer’s Ranch is a relatively new Travis County park that has a lot to offer. They’ve recently added new facilities and continue to improve their offerings—including a new observatory that will begin providing star-gazing sessions in 2015. But since its opening, beyond its regular attractions, hardly anyone has seen all the rugged backcountry and adjacent tracts of native land that surround the park. When the summer crowds thin out, however, the park offers guided tours of its sacred backcountry, which includes walks on unnamed, undeveloped trails—many of which aren’t as much trails as they are just paths of least resistance. As you walk, park guides will tell you the natural history of the place and point out some of the native flora and fauna that have inhabited the land for thousands of years. Reimer's Ranch guide Nathan Kaplan points out ferns in a creek-side cliff in the park's rarely seen backcountry. Dave Brown They’ll also tell you about its more recent history as ranchland. Things like how the Reimer family used it for grazing goats until the goat industry bottomed-out, when they shifted to sheep grazing. And how Mr. Reimer bought it from Mr. Hamilton, who owned it in the 1800s and grazed cattle there. You will see evidence of its ranching past in things like partially hidden, really old homestead and ranch equipment: remnants of an old wood burning stove in a bunch of bluestem grass over here, or an old horse-drawn plow laying permanently at rest in a cactus patch over there. You’ll also learn how before its days as a true Texas ranch, native tribes called the land home, including the Apache, Comanche, and other tribes. If you look closely where the soil has been disturbed, there’s even a chance you just might find an arrowhead, or at least a chert rock that was worked by an Apache perhaps 300 years ago. As evidence of how little known these tours are, I was the only guest on this guided hike. I had basically a private tour, led by two guides who showed me around their backyard—a very big backyard. They took me past the boundary gates, and into the Pogue and Hogue tracts, the rugged stretches of land between Reimer’s Ranch and Hamilton Pool Preserve. There, they brought me to Pogue Creek and down to Pogue Pool, which, even though it remains technically unnamed, that’s what they called it, “because, well, it just makes sense.” I saw the seeps from which the creek originates, and the clear, deep water which is populated by perch and bass; I saw cypress trees that are probably 500 years old; and sycamores stretching their roots into the cool waters; and at least three different species of ferns clinging to the cliffs that wall the creek. There was also a large snake skin, either from a rattler or a cottonmouth, and lots of other wildlife. This is the rarely seen backcountry at Reimer’s Ranch, where you can get a real experience of old land, where not everything is named or landscaped or paved or made easily accessible. Where hardly anything is controlled. Where almost everything is wild. If you want to enjoy rugged, Texas Hill Country land in its true natural state, you must make a visit. Backcountry tours are included in the $10 park entrance fee and run fall through spring, October through May, Saturdays only, at 10:00 am. The gathering point is in the mountain biking trailhead’s parking lot. Just pay your park entrance fee to the ranger at the main entrance booth, and they’ll tell you where to go. The tour lasts between one to two hours, depending on your group’s pace. The guides are pretty casual about it. Just be sure to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes – no heels or flip-flops – because you will be walking off-trail, surrounded by things that can poke and bite. Enjoy!

If you're looking for a hike less then two hours from the urban sprawl of Denver that's unfathomably gorgeous, yet incredibly easy to access, you've come to the right place. Each of these treks comes fully-loaded with manageable trails, flawless views of snowcapped peaks, and of course, mountain lake waters so tremendously blue they bring to mind Gatorade's most unnatural Blue#1 food dyes. Additionally, there's something to be said for hikes that end at the edge of a mountain lake. There's a level of satisfaction that comes with reaching such a well-defined terminus, and all too often—in Colorado, at least—there exists all the ingredients necessary for a sensory feast—the gentle lapping of waves, the awe-inspiring backdrop of 13,000-foot peaks, and the bone-chilling promise of a polar plunge in frigid waters. Here are four Rocky Mountain lakes to add to your Colorado bucket list: 1. Blue Lake Nestled between three peaks at 11,355 feet, Blue Lake is a 5.1-mile round-trip trail full of alpine views, rugged boulders, wildflower clusters, and marshy ponds. This is one of the most popular Indian Peaks Wilderness destinations located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area just 13-miles north of Nederland. There's a reason everyone is trying to visit Blue Lake—the sapphire waters next to an exposed Rocky Mountain backdrop are ceaselessly enticing to every visitor. Bring your dog, lunch, camera, and extra layers for this adventure-filled hike. The winds can pick up at the top of Blue Lake, so a windbreaker is always a good call too. If you're feeling up for a challenge, Blue Lake has a cliff-jumping spot at the far end of the lake near the waterfall. Come early to beat the crowds and bring $10 for the park entrance fee. And stay on the lookout for moose and elk in the late summer/early fall seasons. 2. Emerald and Dream Lake This is an easy hike jam-packed with stellar views of Rocky Mountain National Park. At every turn, there seems to be another lake, pond, waterfall, or cliff-face that is bound to make jaws drop. For this reason, the hike can be very crowded, but the masses pan out once you reach Emerald Lake. Both Emerald and Dream Lake have clear blue-green waters to swim in, gnarled pines to sit against, and bountiful fields of wildflowers to “ooh” and “ahh” at. Along the hike, there are several rock features worth scrambling up for views of Hallett and Longs Peak . Most hikers consider Emerald Lake the final destination, while others continue onward into the backcountry. RMNP charges $20 per car at the park entrance (this pass lasts one week). Once you've entered the park, head to Bear Lake Trailhead parking area and follow the Emerald Lake Trail to the left. 3. St. Mary's Glacier and Lake When it comes to driving convenience from Denver (only 40 miles west in Idaho Springs) and easy trail accessibility, St. Mary's is the perfect option. Not only is it well-suited for families, four-legged friends, or hikers in a time crunch, the hike also includes a diverse array of sites and activities. Want to cliff jump? Hike to the top of a glacier? Ski down the glacier-packed snow? Or fish? St. Mary's has all of this, and more! The trail is only 1.5-miles round-trip, but there's also the option of hiking to the top of the mountain to view the lake from above. Depending on the time of year you visit, the river running beneath the glacier is a great place to fill up your water bottle and crawl underneath the glacier's icy exterior. St. Mary's encompasses scenic views in every direction as well as assorted hangout spots amongst the large boulders and sandy shoreline. There is a large parking lot next to the trailhead for $5. 4. Lost Lake Hallelujah! You can actually swim in this water! Well, technically you can, and should, swim in all of these lakes. But at only 9,786 feet in elevation, Lost Lake will have the warmest water compared to the other lakes previously listed. If you visit on a hot day, air drying on a rock slab is a reasonable option. This is another rewarding lake hike in the Indian Peaks Wilderness just west of Nederland. The 3.2-mile round-trip trail is a pleasant uphill trek to the shores of Lost Lake. There are also plenty of campsites right next to the water. With mountain views, turbulent rivers, and aspen groves galore, Lost Lake is another quintessential Colorado hike that anyone can enjoy. Plus, parking is free along the dirt road in designated areas.

An Ozark native, much of my youth was spent visiting enchanting places such as Whitaker Point, which made the cover of my Arkansas History textbook, and camping with my family along the Buffalo River. However, it wasn’t until a special spring morning in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness that my understanding of the Ozarks’ beauty really shifted. I woke in a friend’s hand-built cabin on the side of a steep hill. Hoping to take advantage of the sunrise, I made my way onto the dew-soaked forest lawn that was the front yard. Between the highlights of morning sun and the young green flora, I was fully captivated. Species of trees unlike any I’d ever seen sparked curiosity, numerous spider webs hid between long streaks of grass, and the dew made the entire landscape sparkle. A hike later that day took us across unmarked hills that revealed even more beauty. We encountered damp cave openings, waterfalls of all strengths, and sweeping overlooks of the snaking Buffalo River around every bend. Big skies framed scattered cabins and treetops. It was on this day that my understanding of my home state widened. I realized that my backyard in the Ozarks had the potential to teach me everything I needed to know about the natural world. With newfound awe for the beauty of the forests, hills, and water of the Ozarks over four distinct seasons, I began to making regular weekend trips to explore as much as possible. I found that no matter where you go, the Ozarks do not disappoint. Hemmed in Hollow. Jeff Rose A drive from town to town within the Ozark National Forest is one way to start. You’ll be aching to take every side road to discover what may be hidden that way. Here’s a list of just seven of the most picturesque spots in the national forest. Whitaker Point Whitaker Point, Hawksbill Crag. Jeff Rose Any Arkansas local will suggest you spend a full day visiting this bluff, and a walk down Hawsbill Crag Trail alone (three miles round trip) makes for the perfect leisurely afternoon. Whitaker Point is a large bluff in the shape of a wolf’s head. The Disney movie “Tuck Everlasting” was filmed here. Big Bluff View from the Goat Trail. Jeff Rose I first encountered Big Bluff, or the Goat Trail, in the middle of January just before a huge snowstorm. Through barren trees, the view was incredible. I’ve been back since in every season, and the view never disappoints actually. After a steep, but very clearly marked downhill hike through the forest, one is led to the more narrow goat trail along the side of a giant bluff. The trail offers chances for hikers to pause within hollow cave walls and ponder the course of the Buffalo River below... Indian Creek A challenging and slippery trail follows the length of Indian Creek, which gives birth to a one-of-a-kind world of mosses, ferns, bugs, and miniature waterfalls. A hike along Indian Creek eventually leads to the Eye of the Needle outlook that frames the distant hills of the Ozarks. Richland Falls Richland Creek. Jeff Rose Richland Falls runs nearly year round but are especially picturesque after a good rain. The hike there also offers views of Hamilton Falls, Twin Falls, and others. It’s not uncommon to encounter swimmers jumping from their safe heights. Compton’s Double Falls Compton's Double Falls. Jeff Rose One of the best things about the Ozarks is waterfall hunting. Compton’s Double Falls is one you’ll want to find, especially after a heavy rain. Access it just past the trailhead for the Hawsbill Crag Trail. Sam’s Throne Sam's Throne. Jeff Rose This massive flat sandstone spot is a great place to set up slack line, chill after a day in the hills, or capture an epic starscape. Sam’s Throne is also rock climbing destination, with 75-foot pitches. My favorite time to visit Sam’s Throne is in the fall as the leaves change color. The Narrows The Narrows. Jeff Rose For a day hike or weekend commitment, the Narrows, or Nars, has a short approach to a unique geological feature from which to view the winding waters below. Located near Richland Creek, the Nars gets it namesake from the narrow rock walk leading to the bluff. Written by Ashleigh Price for RootsRated in partnership with Backwoods.

Intro Hidden in the middle of the warehouses and port terminals of the North Portland peninsula, the Smith and Bybee Wetlands are home to several wildlife species, including some you might not expect. Bald eagles, beavers, and one of the last remaining large populations of Western painted turtles in Oregon all take up residence in the wetlands. A long list of the usual suspects also call the natural area home, including the black-tailed deer and an ever-changing list of seasonal birds. Written by Abby Joffe for RootsRated. What Makes It Great With over 2000 acres of interconnected lakes and channels that don’t allow motorboats and that almost nobody knows about, you’re pretty much guaranteed a peaceful paddle. From the put-in, the area is your oyster, but navigation can be a bit tricky, so take note of your surroundings once in the water. The peace and quiet and bird life make this a great escape from the city, while not actually leaving. I’m not claiming that you’re out in the middle of a pristine wilderness, void of humanity or anything. You’re going to see the occasional plane from PDX and you might hear cars racing over at PIR, or a truck heading down Marine Drive. But in terms of an urban paddle, this is about as peaceful as you’re going to get. Nobody knows it’s there, it’s vast, and no motorized engines!  Water levels vary greatly by season, from flood-level stage in late winter to muddy bog in late summer. As a matter of fact, the paddling is possible, but potentially very difficult by the end of summer. Your best bet is to head out anytime in spring or winter, which happen to offer the most excellent wildlife viewing anyway. Written by Abby Joffe for RootsRated. Who is Going to Love It Anybody that is a fan of a good paddle will appreciate this outing. Beyond that, folks that don’t have a lot of time, but would still like a quality paddle will enjoy this quick trip that is so close to the city. If you’re in a time crunch, North Portland isn’t THAT far away, no matter what your friends living in inner southeast say. And if you’re into wildlife viewing, particularly bird watching, this spot is one of Portland’s birding Meccas. Written by Abby Joffe for RootsRated. Directions, Parking, & Regulations There are a few places around the lakes where you can put-in, but the official put in has restrooms, and those are good to have.  The put in is open from legal sunrise to legal sunset.  As mentioned, water levels are very erratic. It can be easy to get stuck in the mud during low water, so be forewarned. Written by Abby Joffe for RootsRated.