Rails to Trails and More

If you're not a year-round biking enthusiast, I certainly hope you've at least dusted off your wheels to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. All bicycles require a tune-up at least once a year, for the smoothest ride and the best conservation of your equipment. Most bicycle shops will take care of this for a small fee or even for free, but if you'd like to do it yourself the process is easy enough to learn. Once you get your bike and yourself in top riding condition, your options for adventure are almost limitless. Of course, you can ride in the city, replacing your usual car or bus trips with two-wheeled jaunts. On the other hand, if you're looking to get off the beaten path a bit more, Check out the Rails to Trails Conservancy. Rails to trails is a very creative concept in sustainable development. Apparently someone noticed that miles and miles of old retired railways tracks were going to waste, when these clearings and gentle slopes are perfect for biking, far from the annoying influence of motor vehicles. Today, many of these routes have been repurposed and collected into trail guides by the conservancy. At least ten of these bicycle highways span lengths over 100 miles, meandering through natural settings and small towns, and more are being created and linked to the network every day. If that sounds intriguing, you can search on the conservancy's website for rail trails near you. And of course, if this really sounds right up your alley, Rails to Trails appreciates your support.