Scenic Rail Bike Rides You’ll Want To Try Once

Ever pedalled down a railway track with nothing but wind in your face and the rhythm of your feet syncing with the clicks of steel rails? It sounds strange initially, but rail biking is precisely that—and it's much more fun than you'd think.

Rail bikes are pedal-powered vehicles running on abandoned or unused railway tracks, turning forgotten routes into peaceful rides through forests, rivers, and across wide-open valleys. Think of it as part cycling, part sightseeing, and all kinds of relaxing. Curious about where you can try this unique experience? Let's take a ride through some of the best scenic rail bike routes around the world.

This one is easily one of the most popular rail bike destinations out there, for good reason.

Set in the mountainous province of Gangwon-do, about two hours from Seoul, Gangchon Rail Park turns an old train line into a gorgeous riverside trail. You'll pedal past tunnels lit with LED lights, vast green valleys, and rivers that reflect the mountains like mirrors.

Gangchon knows how to blend nature and fun. There's even a tunnel filled with music, mist, and lights that feels like a mini party on wheels.

You can choose from two-person or four-person bikes. The entire route is about 8 kilometres, but don't worry—you won't pedal. A train picks you up at the halfway mark and carries you back to the starting point. No uphill battles here.

Spring for cherry blossoms or fall for fiery foliage. Either way, you're guaranteed a scenic ride.

Looking for a sea breeze and a touch of nostalgia? Head to Rhode Island’s Rail Explorers for a rail biking experience that rolls right along the coast.

Located in the island town of Portsmouth, this ride gives you front-row views of Narragansett Bay. The track hugs the coastline, offering uninterrupted views of boats bobbing in the distance, salt marshes, and seabirds flitting about.

It's flat, smooth, and scenic—perfect for families or first-timers. And the bikes? They're motor-assisted. So if you want to cruise and enjoy the view, go for it.

This is one of the few rail biking locations offering sunset tours. Imagine riding along the water with the sun slowly dipping below the horizon. It's just... serene.

This isn't just about pedalling. In Japan's Ehime Prefecture, the Shimanami rail bike experience mixes history, views, and a lot of sea breeze.

The tracks run along the Seto Inland Sea, passing small fishing towns, citrus groves, and coastal views that look pulled from a painting. You’re riding on a piece of local history, once used to connect island communities.

What Makes It Unique:

You're often the only ones on the track. No crowds, no noise, just the hum of the bike and the call of seabirds.

Japan takes rail biking seriously. The tracks are well maintained, the bikes are sturdy, and everything runs on time—naturally.

Make it part of a more extended trip through the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, a famous bridge-connected path between islands. This way, you get regular cycling and rail biking in one unforgettable loop.

Let’s talk about countryside charm. Just an hour west of Paris lies the Eure Valley, a quiet region dotted with stone houses, sunflower fields, and lazy rivers. And yes, a disused train line now turned into a rail biking path.

There's something very storybook about pedalling through French villages, passing apple orchards and little stone bridges. It feels slow-paced in the best possible way.

Along the 17-kilometre stretch, there are picnic spots and rest areas where you can stop, breathe, and unpack some local cheese and a fresh baguette. Sounds cliché? Maybe, but it's also amazing.

It's quiet and intimate—no rush, no noise, just nature and pedals.

This one's a little different. In Otago, you’re not just rail biking—you're on a trail adventure. The original railway line is now a multi-use path for bikes, hikers, and rail biking enthusiasts.

The landscape? Open plains, distant mountains, sheep-dotted pastures, and vast skies. It's wild, wide, and feels far from everything.

The 150-kilometre trail can be done over several days. You'll stay in little lodges, stop at cafes in converted train stations, and meet other travellers. Companies are offering short rail bike tours on restored sections, too.

Old tunnels and viaducts from the train era remain intact. Riding through them is like jumping back in time.

Want to try rail biking through forested valleys and sparkling lakes? Welcome to Norway. The Nordre Land experience offers all that—and more.

The route is deep in the Norwegian countryside, far from city buzz. You’ll pedal under tall trees, pass grazing cows, and cross wooden bridges that click and clack under your wheels.

Silence. No car horns, no buzzing towns—just the soft sounds of nature. It’s the kind of place you go to disconnect.

Midway, there's a spot where you can park your bike and swim in a pristine lake. It's not marked on many maps; locals just know.

Not ready to book a flight? Don’t worry. Rail biking is popping up in more countries every year. From quiet mountain routes in Canada to riverside trails in Taiwan and nature paths in Australia, there's likely a ride closer than you think.

Search for "rail bike" or "rail explorer" along with your country or state name. You might discover an offbeat adventure just a few hours away.

If the idea of slow travel, scenic landscapes, and something just a little different appeals to you, then a rail bike ride might be the perfect thing to try—just once, or maybe again and again. There’s something special about riding a forgotten railway line and seeing the world from a whole new track.

Where will your first ride take you?