In nearly all states, riders do not need a license to operate an electric bike. However, riders of Class 3 e-Bikes in New Jersey need a license, and e-Bike users in Hawaii will need to pay a $30 registration fee.
E-Bike-Friendly Destinations in the US: Where to Explore this Summer
Written by: Rémy Rossi | June 24, 2025 | Time to read 6 min
Some of the best summer memories start with two wheels and no fixed plan. Let these e-Bike-friendly spots spark your adventure, then ride wherever curiosity leads.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
The best, most memorable adventures have their way of veering off the path and skipping out on the original plan. But, of course, you’ll need some sort of initial scheme to get started. I want to recommend a handful of e-Bike-friendly destinations across the US and leave the deeper exploration up to you. After all, focusing too closely on specific routes or must-see landmarks can crowd out that natural sense of discovery. Visit these cycling utopias on your electric bike this summer and you’re guaranteed to have a blast on two wheels!
Top 4 E-Bike-Friendly Destinations in the US
Pacific Coast Highway
This recommendation might be cheating, considering how big an area it is, but the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a popular and scenic route that’s worth a visit anywhere along it. The full route stretches from Vancouver down to the Mexico border, essentially the entire 1,800+ miles of Pacific coastline.
You can take a month to ride the whole thing or simply pick and choose the areas that are most attractive to you. I’ve ridden the southernmost section from San Luis Obispo to San Diego with a friend and had a total blast, though we did skip the busier Los Angeles boardwalk sections via a train. The route is almost entirely paved, so it’s totally doable on a road e-Bike or city electric bike. Class 1, 2, and 3 e-Bikes are allowed on the route, though California recently tightened the definition of Class 3 e-Bikes in the state.
The Oregon and Northern California sections are less busy and more natural, while the mid-California coastal towns like Mendocino, Monterey, and Santa Barbara are fabulous chill spots. Additional highlights include the area around Big Sur (though check for road closures beforehand) and the Great Redwood Trail. Tons of cyclists have traversed the PCH, so do some research online and find out which section is the best for you to explore!
Teton County, Wyoming & Jackson Hole
I knew about the Jackson Hole area while growing up because of my dad’s ski stories, but it wasn’t until a few years ago that I finally had the chance to visit. I came to test electric bikes during the summer and was blown away by the idyllic scenery, huge mountains, and vast natural areas. The peaks of Grand Teton National Park in the distance and such well-preserved wildlife lands make for a perfect nature escape on two wheels.
The Jackson Hole valley has an extensive network of relatively flat bike paths perfect for cruising around and taking it easy. For the adrenaline seekers out there, you can visit the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort ski area, which is open for mountain biking in the summer. Up there, Class 1 electric bikes are allowed on designated cross-country bike and multi-use trails. Electric mountain bikes are allowed on the Sweetwater and Teewinot lifts and are permitted for downhill use in the bike park.
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Twin Cities, Minnesota
For a more urban destination, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul in Minnesota are great spots to explore during summer. The two cities— split by the Mississippi River— come alive in the summer months as Minnesotans appreciate the respite from the harsh winter, and the extensive bike path network makes getting around on two wheels a breeze. The Twin Cities are consistently ranked as some of the most bike-friendly cities in the US.
I used to live here and know the cycling routes like the back of my hand. There are car-free routes like the Midtown Greenway and tons of multi-use paths that circle the many lakes in the area. The dense network of separated bike lanes, paths, and priority streets makes it comfortable to explore on an e-Bike. Just make sure you treat yourself with a Dairy Queen or a stop at the famous Minnesota State Fair!
I used to live here and know the cycling routes like the back of my hand. There are car-free routes like the Midtown Greenway and tons of multi-use paths that circle the many lakes in the area. The dense network of separated bike lanes, paths, and priority streets makes it comfortable to explore on an e-Bike. Just make sure you treat yourself with a Dairy Queen or a stop at the famous Minnesota State Fair!
Blue Ridge Parkway
Another great shoutout is the Blue Ridge Parkway through the Appalachian Mountains. The route spans 469 miles across Virginia and North Carolina, offering stunning views, mountain climbs, lush greenery, and that characteristic blue aura on the horizon. There is some elevation gain along the route, and that’s why having an electric bike can be such a fabulous help.
The BRP was designed as a scenic parkway for cars and motorcycles, but it’s a fantastic cycling route as well. That’s why there are no designated bike lanes along the road, but the low speed limit and relatively calm traffic make it safe to ride for cyclists and e-Bikers. Summertime is the best moment to complete the route because of the mild weather, turning harsher and colder in the later months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license for an electric bike?
Is there an age limit for e-Bikes?
Some states specify a minimum age for riding an e-Bike. States like Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Oregon require that riders be 16 or older, for example. Other states permit e-Bike use at 14 or 15 years old, while others don’t have an age limit.
Where does Upway get its electric bikes?
Upway sources its high-quality electric bikes from manufacturers, local bike shops, and individuals selling used e-Bikes. We receive overstock directly from bike brands and shops, and we also buy pre-owned e-Bikes from cyclists like you. These sourcing strategies are a win-win for Upway and our partners, helping you get the absolute best deal on electric bikes from the top brands.
Key Takeaways
- Ride the Pacific Coast Highway for sweeping ocean views, charming towns, and an e-bike-appropriate paved route stretching from Canada to Mexico.
- Explore Jackson, Wyoming for a mix of flat scenic trails and thrilling mountain bike parks with Class 1 e-MTB access.
- Cruise the Twin Cities for urban charm, dedicated bike infrastructure, and lake-filled summer joy—perfect for casual and serious riders alike.
