Adventure Cycling Association

Adventure Cycling has big news for riders and advocates alike. The U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS) continues to grow, with two brand-new routes officially added and several safety-driven improvements rolled out across the country.

In fall 2025, we welcomed USBR 80 in Tennessee and USBR 45 in Wisconsin. Together, they added 810.7 miles to the national network, bringing the system total to an impressive 24,144 miles of connected and vetted bike routes and counting. Even better, free digital maps are available for every designated route for anyone ready to explore.

The USBRS is building toward a bold vision: a 50,000-mile nationwide network of signed, bike-friendly routes using existing roads, trails, and other proven cycling infrastructure. As it grows, the system is unlocking new possibilities for cross-country cycling adventures, regional tours, and everyday bike commuting.

Beyond the ride itself, these routes strengthen communities by improving safety, supporting local economies, and boosting bike tourism. Thanks to the continued efforts of advocates and partners, the USBRS is making it easier — and safer — to choose the bike.

“The addition of nearly 1,000 miles reflects the broad support of state departments of transportation (DOT) and advocates to continuously expand this growing network of long-distance bicycle travel routes,” said Kerry Irons, Adventure Cycling Association’s volunteer coordinator.

Behind every mile of the U.S. Bicycle Route System is a strong network of collaboration. As the national technical coordinator for the USBRS, Adventure Cycling works closely with state DOTs, local partners, and dedicated advocates to research potential corridors, develop route applications, and shepherd proposals through the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) approval process. While each state ultimately owns and manages its individual routes, Adventure Cycling helps ensure the system functions as a connected, national network that’s accessible to everyone.

Adventure Cycling is also the only place cyclists can explore the full national network and download all officially designated U.S. Bicycle Routes via Ride with GPS, making it easier than ever to plan your next adventure, tour, or commute.

The USBRS is building toward a bold vision: a 50,000-mile nationwide network of signed, bike-friendly routes

The New Routes

USBR 80, Tennessee

The Volunteer State just became a whole lot more rideable. With the official designation of USBR 80, cyclists now have a continuous 548-mile east–west route spanning the entire state.

Entering from North Carolina and winding all the way to the Arkansas border, USBR 80 connects the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River. And by linking existing USBR 80 segments in North Carolina and Arkansas, it closes a key gap in the national network and creates a seamless, multi-state corridor ideal for long-distance touring and cross-country travel.

Following existing roads and bike-friendly infrastructure, USBR 80 showcases Tennessee’s diverse landscapes and communities while offering a safer, more connected way to ride across the Volunteer State, strengthening Tennessee’s place in the growing U.S. Bicycle Route System.

USBR 45, Wisconsin

The new, 262.7-mile USBR 45 follows the Mississippi River Trail from the Minnesota border near Prescott to the Illinois/Iowa border near Dubuque. The route highlights one of Wisconsin’s most scenic and historic cycling corridors as it snakes through river towns, below dramatic bluffs, and along long-established cycling routes shadowing Old Man River.

USBR 45 also completes Wisconsin’s segment of the 10-state Mississippi River Trail, strengthening connections across state lines and opening the door to longer, more seamless bike journeys through the region. With a continuous, signed, and recognized route in place, USBR 45 will connect riders to local communities, services, and existing bike infrastructure while supporting tourism and local economies all along the river.

2025 USBRS Improvements

USBRS updates aren’t only about adding miles: They’re about making every mile better. Several states recently received completed thoughtful realignments of existing routes, all aimed at improving safety and connectivity.

These updates include enhancements to USBR 7 in Connecticut, USBR 25 and USBR 230 in Ohio, and USBR 1 in Virginia, along with a targeted safety improvement to USBR 76 through Palmyra, Virginia. Together, these refinements show how the USBRS continues to evolve by responding to rider needs and improving the experience on the ground, one corridor at a time.