If you’re looking for a weekend getaway without the hassle of driving, cycling and walking routes can be a great way to explore new areas, get some exercise, and reduce your carbon footprint. With the rise in popularity of bike-sharing programs and pedestrian-friendly cities, it’s easier than ever to incorporate sustainable transportation into your vacation plans. Here are some of the best cycling and walking routes for a weekend getaway on your transportation commute.
The San Francisco Bay Trail
The San Francisco Bay Trail is a 500-mile network of cycling and walking paths that connects all 9 counties in the San Francisco Bay Area. The trail offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, including the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. You can start your journey at any point along the trail, but a popular route is the Embarcadero to Sausalito route, which takes you along the waterfront and across the Golden Gate Bridge to the picturesque town of Sausalito.
The High Line
For an urban walking experience, the High Line in New York City is a must-visit. The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long elevated park that was built on a section of the former New York Central Railroad. The park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and is lined with greenery and public art installations. The High Line is also conveniently located near several subway stations, making it easy to access.
The Katy Trail
The Katy Trail is a 237-mile-long trail that runs through the heart of Missouri. The trail follows the former route of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad and offers beautiful views of the Missouri River and the surrounding countryside. The Katy Trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities, including pit stops with water, restrooms, and other services.
The Burke-Gilman Trail
The Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle is a 27-mile-long trail that runs from Seattle to the town of Bothell. The trail offers stunning views of Lake Washington and is lined with public art installations and parks. The Burke-Gilman Trail is also conveniently located near several bike-sharing stations, making it easy to rent a bike and explore the area.
The Minuteman Bikeway
The Minuteman Bikeway is a 10-mile-long trail that runs from Cambridge to Bedford in Massachusetts. The trail follows the former route of the Lexington and West Cambridge Railroad and offers stunning views of the New England countryside. The Minuteman Bikeway is also conveniently located near several subway stations, making it easy to access.
The Greenway Trails
The Greenway Trails in Charlotte, North Carolina offer over 40 miles of biking and walking trails that connect several parks and neighborhoods in the city. The trails offer stunning views of the Charlotte skyline and are lined with public art installations and parks. The Greenway Trails are also conveniently located near several bike-sharing stations, making it easy to rent a bike and explore the area.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Towpath Trail
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Towpath Trail is a 20-mile-long trail that runs through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio. The trail follows the former route of the Ohio and Erie Canal and offers stunning views of the Cuyahoga River and the surrounding countryside. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Towpath Trail is also conveniently located near several bike-sharing stations, making it easy to rent a bike and explore the area.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a scenic route or an urban adventure, there are plenty of cycling and walking routes to explore on your transportation commute. These routes offer stunning views, public art, and plenty of amenities to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. With sustainable transportation options becoming more widely available, there’s no reason not to incorporate biking and walking into your next weekend getaway.