New Orleans Bike Routes

Best New Orleans Bike Routes for Different Ride Goals

New Orleans is a remarkably bike-friendly city, thanks to its flat terrain, extensive greenways, and scenic waterfront paths. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch-hour spin, a family outing, or a long-distance challenge, the Crescent City has a route that fits. Below are the best New Orleans bike routes organized by riding goal.

Best for a Quick City Spin: The Lafitte Greenway

The Lafitte Greenway is a 2.6-mile paved urban trail connecting the French Quarter to City Park. It's flat, well-lit, and passes through the heart of Mid-City, making it ideal for commuters and casual riders who want a traffic-free corridor through the city. The greenway links directly to the Wisner Bike Trail, so you can easily extend your ride into City Park.

Best for Scenic Waterfront Views: Lake Pontchartrain Levee Trail

The Lake Pontchartrain Levee Trail offers miles of paved path along the lakefront with panoramic water views. On a clear day you can see the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway stretching to the horizon. This is a favorite for road cyclists who want a long, flat, uninterrupted ride with a cooling breeze off the water.

Best for Historic Charm: St. Charles Avenue

Riding the St. Charles Avenue bike route takes you under a canopy of live oaks past some of the city's most historic mansions, with the streetcar rattling alongside. This 4.5-mile route connects the Warehouse District to Audubon Park and is one of the most iconic urban cycling experiences in the country.

Best for Families: Audubon Park Loop

The Audubon Park loop is a smooth, 1.8-mile paved path through a park filled with ancient live oaks, lagoons, and open green space. It's flat, car-free, and perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.

Best for Long-Distance Riders: The Tammany Trace

Just across Lake Pontchartrain on the Northshore, the Tammany Trace is a 31-mile rail-to-trail path through pine forests and small towns. It's the longest paved trail in Louisiana and a must-ride for endurance cyclists visiting the New Orleans area.

What to Know Before Riding in New Orleans

Before you head out on a New Orleans bike route, here are a few things every cyclist should know to have a safe and enjoyable ride.

Weather and When to Ride

New Orleans is hot and humid for much of the year. From May through September, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. Plan rides for early morning (before 9 AM) or evening to avoid the worst heat. October through April offers ideal cycling weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Always carry more water than you think you'll need.

Road and Path Conditions

New Orleans roads can be rough — potholes are common on city streets, especially in older neighborhoods. The dedicated greenways and park paths (Lafitte Greenway, Audubon Park, City Park) are well-maintained and smooth. Levee paths are paved and in good condition. If riding on city streets, a wider-tired hybrid or gravel bike will handle the rough patches better than a skinny-tired road bike.

Traffic and Bike Infrastructure

New Orleans has a growing network of bike lanes, but they vary in quality and protection. The Lafitte Greenway and park paths are fully separated from traffic. St. Charles Avenue has a bike lane that runs alongside the streetcar tracks — watch for the rails, as they can catch a bike wheel. Always ride predictably, use hand signals, and be aware of opening car doors on narrow streets.

What to Bring

• Water — Essential in the New Orleans heat. Bring more than you think you need.
• Helmet — Always wear one, even on flat, slow routes.
• Lock — If you plan to stop at a café or shop along your route.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses — The Louisiana sun is intense, and many routes have limited shade.
• Phone with a map — Cell service is good throughout the city, but having a route planned helps.

Bike Rentals and Shops

Don't have a bike? Several shops in New Orleans offer rentals, including road bikes, hybrids, and cruisers. Check our New Orleans bike shops directory for rental locations near your starting point. Many shops are conveniently located near the Lafitte Greenway and City Park.