Five great American cycle rides

Golden Gate, San Francisco

Ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and Tiburon and return by ferry. With great views, you also get to see the landmark bridge up close. Most of the route is away from traffic. Take the National Park Bike Path from Fisherman's Wharf to the bridge, ride across on the sidewalk and then continue downhill to Sausalito or even further to Tiburon. You can get a ferry back from both destinations. 13km to Sausalito, suits beginners and intermediates. Bike tours, hire: baycitybike.com.

Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, New Haven, Connecticut

This is an all-inclusive paved trail fit for any bike or any age, just over 130km of motor vehicle-free paved cycling. The trail makes its way through Thomas Jefferson country and includes great scenery and plenty of towns along the way for food and water stops.

East Bay Bike Path, Bristol, Rhode Island

The East Bay Bike Path is especially suitable for beginners and covers 23km all on seal. It runs alongside East Bay - you may even want to wade in the water or stop for an icecream. Users can relax and enjoy the views as the 3m-wide path passes coves and marshes, goes over bridges and connects eight parks.

Underground Railroad Bicycle Route, US/Canada

The non-profit Adventure Cycling Association developed this route from Mobile, Alabama, to Owen Sound, Ontario. The route roughly traces the network of paths and hideouts used by runaway slaves seeking freedom and the abolitionists who ferried them along. There are five segments, adding up 3310km. Sites include former slave markets and museums dedicated to African-American history.

Cycling in Sonoma

Cycling between Sonoma's wineries is a great way to see the area, as well as getting to taste the wine. Ride through wetlands, along coastlines, in rural towns and the city of Santa Rosa. For trail suggestions ranging from easy to challenging, visit srcc.memberlodge.com/tgr.