Adventure Cycling Association, the nation’s largest nonprofit membership bicycling association and the reason many of our staff got into bicycle touring for the first place, is proud to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Northern Tier Route, one of the organization’s most iconic and beloved routes…

Riding photos by Spencer Harding from his DFL the Divide photo gallery, another ACA route!

Established in 1984, the Northern Tier Route spans approximately 4,296 miles, stretching from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine. Over the past four decades, it has become a cherished pathway for thousands of cyclists seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences.

The Northern Tier Route takes cyclists through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States, including the majestic Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, the Great Lakes, and the charming towns of the Northeast. Along the way, riders encounter a diverse array of cultures, wildlife, and ecosystems, making it a truly immersive journey.

“The Northern Tier is kind of a hidden gem,” says Jenn Hamelman, Adventure Cycling Association Routes Director. “The TransAmerica is the most popular, and people see the Southern Tier as more appealing because it’s shorter. But the Northern Tier is really something that gets overlooked.”

For more detailed information on the creation Northern Tier and for testimonials from riders, please check out this article on the Adventure Cycling website.