Northern Tier Bike Route
Cycle Across America 2025
About the Northern Tier Bike Route
Our longest and northernmost coast to coast route
The first half of the Northern Tier bike route stretches from the Atlantic to the Mississippi River. You will ride along two of the Great Lakes, Niagara Falls, and pass through cities that were once the backbone of American industrialism.
Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota stand out as the greenest states along the route with rolling hillsides and bluffs along the Mississippi. You will learn about the history of the river as you follow it north towards its headwaters.
The second half, from Minnesota to Seattle, includes the Great Plains, Badlands, Rocky Mountain ranges, and farmland in between. “Going to the Sun Road” takes you deep into Glacier National Park and begins a two-week stretch of mountains, rivers, and extreme natural beauty before arriving in Seattle.
Ready. Set. Pedal.
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Here’s a couple of pointers of what to expect when you take on the Northern Tier Bike Route.
Gearing up to pedal across Maine New Hampshire Vermont New York Pennsylvania Ohio Illinois Indiana Iowa Wisconsin Minnesota North Dakota Montana Idaho Washington in:
Explore the Northern Tier Bike Route
Where will the Northern Tier take you?
Can't make it for the full Northern Tier Bike Route?
Join the team and ride a segment!
Here are some of our favorites, ride one or tie together a few:
New England
Bar Harbor, ME to Middlebury, VT
Dates: 6/7-6/14
Biking Days: 6
Miles: 433
Fundraising: $650
Highlights: Embark on an unforgettable journey as you set off from Bar Harbor, Maine, just outside of the majestic Acadia National Park. Pedal through rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint fishing towns as you make your way towards the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Tackle the challenging Kancamagus Pass, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and rugged terrain. As you continue on, the Green Mountains of Vermont will unveil themselves, offering a new set of natural wonders to explore. Finally, end your journey in the charming town of Middlebury, where the soothing sound of a beautiful river and waterfall will be the perfect end to an incredible adventure.
Great Lakes and Niagara Falls
Middlebury, VT to Cleveland, OH
Dates: 6/15-6/25
Biking Days: 10
Miles: 670
Fundraising: $1,000
Highlights: Embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you discover the natural beauty of upstate New York on your bike from Middlebury, VT to Cleveland, OH. Camp at the shores of Lake Ontario and wake up to the soothing sound of the waves. Ride along the historic Erie Canal, a waterway that played a vital role in the development of the region and the nation. Gaze in awe at the powerful Niagara Falls, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. As you continue your journey, ride along the picturesque Lake Erie and take in the breathtaking views of the Great Lakes region. From the serene beauty of the lakes to the rolling hills and lush forests, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty at every turn. End your journey in Cleveland, OH, with a ride along the beautiful bridges that connect the city.
I Love “I” States
Clevaland, OH to Minneapolis, MN
Dates: 6/25-6/7/10
Biking Days: 14
Miles: 1,033
Fundraising: $1,550
Highlights: The route begins by tracing the picturesque shoreline of Lake Erie, providing breathtaking views of the lake and the opportunity to discover the charming small towns and cities that dot the coastline. As you continue your journey, you will ride through the states of Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa, where you will encounter rolling hills and picturesque countryside, offering a glimpse of the Midwest’s natural beauty.
As the route heads north, it follows the Mississippi River, giving you the chance to experience the might and majesty of this iconic waterway. The route ends in Minneapolis, a dynamic and exciting city, renowned for its delicious food, vibrant music and art scene, and an abundance of parks and lakes.
The trip also includes a life changing visit to the MS Achievement Center, where you can learn about the impact of multiple sclerosis on individuals and their families and the progress of research and treatments.
Lakes and Plains
Minneapolis, MN to Bismark, ND
Dates: 7/11-7/20
Biking Days: 8
Miles: 550
Fundraising: $825
Highlights: Embark on a journey of discovery as you pedal through the charming landscapes of Minnesota, known for its friendly and welcoming culture. As you make your way north, the prairies will unfold before you, providing a panoramic view of the Midwest’s natural beauty. The flat straightaways of North Dakota will give you a taste of the true biking experience as you cover long distances with ease.Take a break in the vibrant cities of Fargo and Bismarck, where you’ll experience the laid-back atmosphere of the northern plains.
Find Yourself In Montana / Glacier National Park
Great Falls, MT to Sandpoint, ID
Dates: 7/28-8/6
Biking Days: 8
Miles: 517
Fundraising: $775
Highlights: Embark on an unforgettable journey as you begin in Great Falls, Montana, preparing for the epic ride on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Winding through the heart of Glacier National Park, this scenic road offers a feast for the senses, showcasing the park’s rugged mountains, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Be awestruck by the stunning alpine vistas, glistening lakes, and diverse ecosystems that make this place so special. Take a rest day in the charming town of Whitefish, and enjoy the local culture and history before setting off again. As you pedal towards Sand Point, Idaho, the winding roads, twists, and turns will keep you on your toes, making the journey all the more exhilarating. With the Selkirk Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop, the countryside of Montana is a beautiful and unique experience that will stay with you forever.
From the Cascades to the Sound
Sandpoint, ID to Seattle, WA
Dates: 8/7-8/16
Biking Days: 9
Miles: 517
Fundraising: $775
Highlights: Embark on an epic cycling journey through the picturesque Sierra Cascades, starting in Sandpoint, Idaho and making your way through Eastern Washington. As you conquer the steep inclines of Sherman Pass, Wauconda Pass, Loup Loup Pass, and Washington Pass, the majestic Cascades will rise to meet you. Along the way, take in the breathtaking views of the glistening glacial waters of Diablo Lake. Your journey will culminate in the vibrant city of Seattle, where you can rest and recover while exploring the highlights of this bustling metropolis, nestled along the Puget Sound.
2025 Northern Tier Overnights
Have a look at the scheduled overnights and daily mileage for the Northern Tier bike route. Naturally, these are subject to change, but it’s a good starting point!
Date
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June 7
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June 8
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June 9
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June 10
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June 11
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June 12
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June 13
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June 14
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June 15
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June 16
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June 17
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June 18
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June 19
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June 20
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June 21
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June 22
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June 23
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June 24
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June 25
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June 26
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June 27
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June 28
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June 29
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June 30
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July 1
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July 2
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July 3
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July 4
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July 5
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July 6
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July 7
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July 8
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July 9
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July 10
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July 11
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July 12
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July 13
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July 14
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July 15
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July 16
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July 17
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July 18
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July 19
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July 20
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July 21
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July 22
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July 23
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July 24
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July 25
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July 26
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July 27
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July 28
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July 29
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July 30
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July 31
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August 1
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August 2
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August 3
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August 4
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August 5
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August 6
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August 7
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August 8
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August 9
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August 10
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August 11
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August 12
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August 13
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August 14
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August 15
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August 16
Destination
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Bar Harbor, ME
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Belfast
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Damariscotta
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Naples
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North Woodstock, NH
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Thetford, VT
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Middlebury
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Middlebury
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Newcomb, NY
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Old Forge
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Pulaski
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Sodus Point
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Spencerport
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Lockport
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Buffalo
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Lake Erie State Park
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Geneva, OH
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Cleveland
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Cleveland
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Huron
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Bowling Green
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Monroeville, IN
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Denver
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Iroquois, IL
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Odell
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Henry
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Orion
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Oxford Junction, IA
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Elkader
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La Crosse - WI
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Alma
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Prescott
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Minneapolis - MN
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Minneapolis
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Minneapolis
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Dalbo
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Royalton
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Osakis
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Fergus Falls
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Fargo, ND
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Kathryn
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Napoleon
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Bismarck
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Bismarck
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Hebron
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Medora
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Glendive, MT
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Circle
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Jordan
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Grass Range
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Stanford
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Great Falls
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Conrad
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Cut Bank
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St Mary
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Glacier National Park
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Whitefish
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Whitefish
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Eureka
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Libby
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Sandpoint, ID
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Sandpoint
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Newport, WA
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Colville
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Republic
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Omak
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Winthrop
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Diablo Lake
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Darrington
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Snohomish
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Seattle
Mileage
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-
61
-
86
-
84
-
79
-
49
-
69
-
-
68
-
60
-
77
-
67
-
65
-
55
-
55
-
66
-
93
-
64
-
-
47
-
69
-
90
-
80
-
94
-
64
-
58
-
72
-
95
-
93
-
89
-
59
-
65
-
53
-
-
-
68
-
58
-
55
-
58
-
62
-
79
-
97
-
72
-
-
72
-
76
-
67
-
50
-
67
-
100
-
80
-
59
-
71
-
54
-
66
-
52
-
33
-
-
58
-
77
-
96
-
-
36
-
93
-
54
-
71
-
47
-
64
-
52
-
52
-
40