America’s Longest River Trails You Can Bike, Hike, or Paddle

From the rugged Appalachian foothills to the open plains of the Midwest, America’s rivers are more than just winding waterways—they’re highways of adventure. Across the country, river trails stretch for hundreds of miles, offering a mix of scenic beauty, physical challenge, and historical intrigue. Whether you're lacing up your boots, strapping on a helmet, or launching a kayak, these are the longest river trails in the US that you can hike, bike, or paddle.

These aren’t your average nature walks. These are epic journeys—multi-day excursions where planning matters, logistics count, and the payoff is unmatched. Explore the longest river trails in America built for true outdoor explorers.

Mississippi River Trail (MRT) – Bike Over 3,000 Miles

Type: Biking

Length: Over 3,000 miles

Route: From Lake Itasca, Minnesota to Venice, Louisiana

The Mississippi River Trail is one of America’s longest and most ambitious bicycle routes. Hugging the entire length of the iconic Mississippi River, the MRT spans over 3,000 miles and runs through 10 states, offering cyclists a front-row seat to America’s cultural and geographic diversity.

The route is a mix of on-road and off-road paths, often paralleling the river’s curves. You’ll cruise through river towns like Hannibal, Missouri (Mark Twain’s hometown), pass Memphis’s vibrant blues scene, and eventually reach the Mississippi River Delta.

Susquehanna River Water Trail – Paddle 500+ Miles

Type: Paddling

Length: Over 500 miles

Route: New York to Chesapeake Bay, Maryland

The Susquehanna River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, and its water trail system lets paddlers explore its legacy across three states. This massive trail is divided into segments—North Branch, West Branch, Middle, and Lower—each offering a unique experience from wild to urban.

Expect bald eagle sightings, Native American rock carvings, and long stretches of solitude. The river’s history is intertwined with coal mining, railroads, and the American Revolution.

Missouri River Water Trail – Paddle 340 Miles

Type: Paddling

Length: 340 miles

Route: Kansas City to St. Charles, Missouri

This isn’t just a water trail—it’s a challenge. The Missouri River Water Trail is home to the MR340, the longest non-stop river race in the world. But even outside race week, paddlers can take on sections of this 340-mile journey at their own pace.

This trail is for seasoned adventurers. The Missouri River is wide, fast-moving, and can be unpredictable. That said, it offers spectacular views of the Great Plains, ancient bluffs, and Lewis and Clark landmarks.

Green River Trail – Paddle 100+ Miles

Type: Paddling

Length: 100+ miles

Route: Mammoth Cave National Park to western Kentucky

Tucked into the heart of Kentucky, the Green River is one of the most underrated paddling trails in America. The 100+ mile water trail begins in Mammoth Cave National Park, the world’s longest known cave system, and flows westward through lush forests, karst landscapes, and secluded wildlife corridors.

The Green River is calm and accessible, making it perfect for intermediate paddlers or even adventurous beginners. Camping options are available along the route, and wildlife sightings (including river otters, great blue herons, and even bobcats) are common.

Columbia River Gorge Trails – Hike or Bike 80+ Miles

Type: Hiking & Biking

Length: 80+ miles

Route: Troutdale to The Dalles

Cutting through the Cascade Range, the Columbia River Gorge offers a spectacular collection of trails that parallel the river, connecting dozens of waterfalls, overlooks, and basalt cliffs. While the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is still a work in progress, several paved and dirt sections are complete and open for hikers and cyclists.

This area is particularly stunning in spring and fall, when wildflowers blanket the hills and the river runs strong.

Ohio River Water Trail – Paddle 69 Miles

Type: Paddling

Length: 69 miles

Route: From Pittsburgh, PA to the Indiana border

While often associated with commerce and industry, the Ohio River is also a paddler’s paradise. The 274-mile Ohio River Water Trail, part of the National Water Trails System, offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. Launch from downtown Pittsburgh and travel past historic locks, quaint river towns, and tree-lined banks.

Paddlers will appreciate the rich history along the way—from French and Indian War sites to 19th-century steamboat ports.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area – Hike, Bike, or Paddle 48 Miles

Type: Multi-use (Hike, Bike, Paddle)

Length: 48 miles

Route: Buford Dam to Atlanta, Georgia

The Chattahoochee River corridor in Georgia offers a rare trifecta—you can hike, bike, or paddle along its 48-mile protected stretch. Trails weave through dense forest, past creeks and waterfalls, while the river itself is calm and cold, perfect for kayaking, tubing, or even fly-fishing.

Urban yet scenic, this is Atlanta’s outdoor escape. The multi-use trails are well-maintained, and you’ll find outfitters for kayaks and tubes all along the route.

Neuse River Trail – Bike or Hike 27.5 Miles

Type: Biking & Walking

Length: 27.5 miles

Route: Falls Lake Dam to Clayton, North Carolina

As part of the East Coast Greenway, the Neuse River Trail is a hidden gem in Raleigh’s park system. This 10-foot-wide paved greenway follows the Neuse River’s bends for nearly 28 miles, passing over wetlands, boardwalks, and scenic bridges.

It’s ideal for families, casual cyclists, or runners seeking a long-distance yet accessible trail.

Hudson River Greenway – Bike or Hike 11 Miles

Type: Biking & Walking

Length: 11 miles

Route: Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge

While not the longest, the Hudson River Greenway is the busiest bike path in America—and arguably one of the most scenic urban river trails. Stretching 11 miles along Manhattan’s west side, this paved route offers stunning views of the Hudson River, New Jersey skyline, and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty.

It’s a perfect introduction to river trail culture in a high-energy setting. Cyclists, joggers, and walkers all share the space, and multiple access points make it easy to customize your route.

Need to Know: Quick Guide

Final Thoughts

America’s river trails are more than paths—they’re stories. Each one weaves together nature, history, and local culture in a way few other routes can. Whether you’re an experienced long-distance paddler or a casual cyclist looking for your next weekend trip, there’s a river trail out there for you.

So grab your bike, kayak, or hiking boots and start tracing the country’s greatest water corridors—the journey is as unforgettable as the destination.