Although the term
Underground Railroad
implies a
progression of
well-ordered routes
leading north, it
was actually a broad
movement, with
people of varied
ethnic and religious
affiliation involved
in spontaneous and
organized activities
to assist enslaved
African Americans in
their efforts to
achieve freedom.
Actual routes, which
led to Canada, Mexico
and the Caribbean,
are difficult to
trace due to the
secrecy associated
with this illegal
activity.
- Guy Washington
National Park Service
Network to Freedom

EXPLORING THE ROUTE TO FREEDOM
The history of this remarkable period comes alive as you pedal along the corridor that traces the Underground Railroad route from the Deep South to Canada. This bicycle route memorializes the Underground Railroad, a network of clandestine routes by which African freedom seekers attempted to escape for many years before and during the Civil War.

You can discover America’s legendary route to freedom from the best vantage point possible—your bicycle seat. Maps for the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route are available now in our online store and organized cycling tours are offered on the route.

Cick to Enlarge.

Join Adventure Cycling and our partners, the Center for Minority Health, in our efforts to promote lifelong health through a form of physical activity available to people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.

You can learn more about how the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route was developed, view highlights, meet the people behind the project, and learn how you can be involved in this project by clicking on the links on the upper right-hand side of the page. You can also participate in our forum or register your ride on the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route. There are also resources and outside links listed so that you can take advantage of all the opportunities available on this scenic and historic route. We'll be updating these resources regularly.

Whether it’s a short journey through the rich historic areas along the route or a trek over the entire 2,000 miles, exploring the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route should be your next cycling adventure.

Thanks to REI for their generous support of the
Underground Railroad Bicycle Route project.