Top 5 Scenic E-Bike Routes to Enjoy Fall Foliage Across the U.S.

According to a report from Stuffed Puffs and OnePolls, Fall appears to be America’s favorite season with more than a third of 2000 poll participants citing it as their favorite of the year. Even more impressive is 56% of respondents reporting increased happiness in the Fall. The appeal isn't hard to understand: mild weather, the relaxed mood of parents heading back to school, pumpkin spice-everything, and of course, gorgeous fall foliage! Maybe it's also the time of year to visit some of the most scenic routes in the U.S. by e-bike.

We've compiled a list of five of the most picturesque fall e-bike rides in the U.S. Even if these are out of your physical range, they may inspire you to find some picturesque roads and trails near you to get out and enjoy the happiest season America has to offer!

NEW ENGLAND

Location: Western Maine to Eastern New Hampshire

Length: 44 miles (round trip)

Estimated Time to Complete: 3-4 hours

Best Time to Visit: Early October (for peak fall foliage)

Route Type: Paved road, suitable for e-bikes, with rural sections

Detailed Description:

Known as one of the most beautiful maple routes in the United States, this fall ride connects western Maine to eastern New Hampshire. Starting in Bethel, known as “Maine's most beautiful mountain village,” riders follow a flat road north, eventually turning onto North Road, which parallels the Androscoggin River and offers breathtaking views of the White Mountains.

As the ride progresses, the route climbs and eventually reaches Evans Notch, a 1,700-foot pass that offers expansive panoramic vistas, making it an excellent spot to view the red and orange foliage of New England in the fall. Riders may encounter cooler temperatures (around 30°F) in the early morning, but as the sun rises, temperatures can rise to 60°F by late afternoon.

The final portion of the route becomes more remote, so be sure to carry plenty of water, snacks, clothing layers, and a roadside emergency kit. When you return to Bethel at the end of the ride, you can relax with some local ice cream or visit a nearby coffee shop.

Erie Canalway Trail

Location: Buffalo to Lockport, New York

Length: 32 miles (one way)

Estimated Time to Complete: 3-4 hours (one way), 6-8 hours round trip

Best Time to Visit: Late October (for peak fall foliage)

Route Type: Mixed (paved and crushed stone), flat, e-bike accessible (Class 1 and 2)

Detailed Description:

There is a 360+ mile long Erie Canalway Trail in Western New York State, and don't be intimidated, we're going to talk about a 32-mile section of it that connects Buffalo and Lockport. Late October is the time to take in some of the best fall colors, and from the Shoreline Trail in Buffal, head east on a mostly paved trail and follow the Erie Canal, one of the most famous man-made waterways.

In addition to the brightly colored foliage, you'll see the incredibly cool-looking “Flying Fives” locks that help transport boats to the bluffs near Lockport. On an e-bike, you can complete the 64-mile round trip in a single day—if your battery allows—or take a break for lunch in Lockport.

Give yourself plenty of time, and you'll want to stop at the various historic sites and iconic lift bridges along the way, says Rebecca De La Cruz of Parks & Trails New York, a nonprofit organization that helps manage and maintain the trail. Remember to wear or bring waterproof clothing, as the area is prone to rain in the fall.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Location: Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee

Length: 444 miles (suggested 32-mile stretch)

Estimated Completion Time: 1-2 days for a round trip on the 32-mile segment

Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November

Route Type: Paved scenic parkway, e-bike friendly

Detailed Description:

Want to experience diverse fall scenery from north to south? The 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway offers a chance to see different batches of fall colors every day. Starting in Tennessee in mid-to-late October, the parkway winds south through Alabama and Mississippi until early November, providing a continuous display of foliage. The parkway is free of commercial vehicles, making it a perfect route for leaf-peeping. You can even use leaf reports from the National Park Service website to plan your trip and ensure you catch the peak colors along the way.

Well, you may not be planning on riding the entire 444-mile route, and you certainly can. Is there one part worth trying? The Mississippi Flats is located between the Parkway Visitor Center and the Witch's Dance Campground, which is only open to cyclists. The 32-mile flat stretch takes you past Tupelo, Mississippi, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and then through the scenic Tombigbee National Forest.

There's so much to see along the way, and even though you enjoy the thrill of speeding along in the saddle, stopping to soak up the mesmerizing views or other historical sites is unavoidable. It's also worth noting that there are National Park Service-administered restrooms every 20 or 30 miles, so a park ranger is never too far away if you need help.

Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail

Location: Nevada/California border, from Incline Village to Sand Harbor State Park

Length: 8.8 miles (round trip)

Estimated Time to Complete: 2-3 hours

Best Time of Year to Visit: Late Fall (October to November)

Route Type: Paved, scenic trail

Detailed Description:

Do you want to enjoy crystal-clear blue water, dramatic cliffs, and mountains with spectacular views all at the same time? The answer is the 8.8-mile Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail, which travels from Incline Village to North Lake Tahoe's stunning Sand Harbor State Park on fully paved bike paths. The trail features flat roads, gentle elevation changes, and no traffic congestion, making it perfect for e-bike riding.

While there is actually a popular all-day self-guided e-bike tour for $139, you can save money and explore on your own. Fall is the best time to visit, and you'll pass secluded beaches, scenic overlooks and coves, taking in the crisp mountain air and the changing colors of the surrounding trees. It’s a relaxing way to spend the day, and you’ll see much more than you ever could traveling by car.

Don’t forget to pack a few snacks and make sure your camera is fully charged—anytime in late fall here will not disappoint your visual appetite. Post your moments along the way on Instagram, and if you'd like, tag us to share in the fun.

June Lake Loop

Location: Eastern Sierra, California

Length: 14 miles

Estimated Completion Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Best Time of Year to Visit: Mid- to late September

Route Type: Road

Detailed Description:

The June Lake Loop winds through the rugged Eastern Sierra Mountains, offering spectacular views of Carson Peak in the distance. This 14-mile route passes four crystal-clear lakes—June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake—as well as the Rush Creek Substation. A slight detour west along Rush Creek Substation Road leads to Agnew Lake and Gem Lakes, nestled in the mountains and providing breathtaking views of the valley below.

The 24-mile loop is a solitary and beautiful journey past these stunning lakes, backed by towering peaks, some of the highest in the West. Known as the Switzerland of California, June Lake features rugged granite canyons, sparkling glacial lakes, and golden aspen groves that captivate outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The clear skies enhance the visual experience.

After your ride, relax at June Lake Brewery or enjoy a meal at O'Hana's 395 food truck, both popular spots among locals and visitors alike.

Get Ready for Fall Rides

The most anticipated thing about autumn is watching the leaves change color. What better way to experience this natural wonder than on an electric bike? Ready to explore one of these top five electric bike routes this fall? Tag us on Instagram and show us your ride! Don’t have an electric bike? Join TST and click here to find the perfect e-bike for you.