Cyclists navigating the bike lanes of Las Vegas, underscoring the need for safer routes.
Las Vegas and North Las Vegas received disappointing ratings in a recent evaluation of bicycle networks by People For Bikes, ranking 2,073 and 2,383 respectively. Despite extensive bike lanes and trails, safety concerns persist, particularly regarding infrastructure quality. Efforts are underway to improve the cycling experience, including a future project for a protected bike lane. Comparatively, Henderson and Reno performed significantly better. The Las Vegas cycling community continues to grow, leading to initiatives aimed at promoting safer riding practices while addressing infrastructure challenges.
Las Vegas and North Las Vegas have been rated poorly for their bicycle networks according to a 2025 city bike ranking list released by People For Bikes, a national bicycle advocacy organization. Las Vegas ranked 2,073 out of 2,901 cities, placing it in the 29th percentile. North Las Vegas fared even worse, scoring 2,383rd overall, corresponding to an 18th percentile rating.
Despite having 450 miles of bike lanes and 100 miles of trails and paths, Las Vegas faces criticism regarding certain areas of its cycling infrastructure. Concerns have been raised about trails like the Bonanza Trail, which compromises safety with sidewalks in some sections and reported instances of human waste along a bridge. The city is implementing improvements, including a federally funded project for Stewart Avenue slated for completion in 2027, featuring a protected bike lane to enhance cyclist safety.
Henderson, the neighboring city, achieved a better ranking at 925th out of 2,901 cities, which translates to a 68th percentile rating. This outcome reflects a stronger commitment to bicycle infrastructure, promoted by a pro-bicycle city manager and supported by past leadership, including the former mayor. The city of Reno also performed better, securing 1,321st place and a 54th percentile rating.
The evaluation conducted by People For Bikes uses a methodology encapsulated by the acronym SPRINT, focusing on factors that determine the quality of city bike networks. Despite growing interest in cycling, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is little evidence of substantial progress in building a paved trail system to connect downtown Las Vegas to the Strip. However, construction of a paved trail along the Summerlin Highway to the 215 beltway is currently underway, which is designed to improve the existing biking infrastructure.
There have been persistent calls for a paved trail from Summerlin to the Red Rock Visitors Center, and after 20 years of advocacy, groundbreaking for this project is finally set to happen. Local governments, apart from Henderson, have shown a lack of prioritization regarding bicycle infrastructure development, resulting in a fragmented network of pathways.
Las Vegas has a troubling history marked by serious cyclist fatalities in recent years, primarily linked to reckless driving. Data suggests that individuals should consider avoiding public roads for cycling in Las Vegas, with recommendations leaning toward mountain biking on dirt trails in the Red Rock area instead.
The Las Vegas cycling community has witnessed notable growth and increased interest in ridership, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when bike sales surged by 65% nationally in 2020. Local organizations, like the Southern Nevada Bicycle Coalition, have initiated campaigns aimed at improving bike safety by educating cyclists on the rules of the road and emphasizing safe riding practices. These initiatives include promoting helmet use, visibility, and choosing bike-friendly routes while riding defensively.
In response to these concerns, the Clark County Commission has implemented ordinances aimed at clarifying road rules for both cyclists and motorists. Additionally, there are efforts underway to expand bike trails and paths throughout the valley, reflecting a growing recognition of cycling as a viable mode of transportation. A “Ride Safe” event is scheduled for May 2nd, which will be open to all cyclists and is intended to promote safe cycling practices within the community.
While Las Vegas and North Las Vegas struggle with their current bicycle infrastructure rankings, ongoing efforts by local organizations and government agencies demonstrate a commitment to improving safety and accessibility for cyclists in the region.
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