Biking Along the Panama Canal

No Tow Path

The Canal

For security reasons, there is no roadway that runs directly alongside the Panama Canal, so do not expect a tow path like those running alongside many North American and European Canals dating to before the 20th Century. This means that a biker will be sharing the road with cars and trucks, and will not have an easy, flat journey. However, there are roads that follow a roughly parallel route, and allow a biker to keep fairly close to the canal for part of the journey.

The Route

Lake Gatun

The canal route starts in Balboa, near Panama City, and follows back roads near the Old Canal Zone until coming out on the national road 145D. From here it veers far from the canal towards Aguas Buenas and the Madden Dam. A biker should not go to Gamboa if they are going along the Canal and coast-to-coast, as Gamboa is a dead-end. This long way around is the shortest path around Lake Gatun. Once past Madden Dam, the route follows the road and veers back towards the lake and the canal, eventually arriving at Colon on the other side.

Soberania National Park

Soberania National Park

A bike trip down and around the Panama Canal cuts very close to Soberania National Park. Covering about 85 square miles, the area is popular with bird watchers and is also home to several species of monkey, as well as the green iguana. As opposed to veering away from Gamboa, a biker should instead follow the road towards it. This will lead to the access road from the park. There are several companies offering mountain bike tours of the park for between $80 and $100, including lunch and a bike rental. However, strictly speaking this is not necessary.

ANAM
804 Albrook
Apartado C-0843-00793
Balboa, Ancón
Tel: (+507) 500-0855