Bicycle Travel on the Rise

Active travel in general and bicycle travel specifically is on the rise. More people are choosing to jump on rail-trails or pedal the highways & byways of this country rather than lounging around the pool or zipping by the monuments and mountains in their cars.

Looking down on the C & O Canal Towpath trail from
the Western Maryland Rail Trail.

Recent press releases from Adventure Cycling Association and various outdoor tourism blogs have cited some incredibly heartening trends in the travel industry:

• Despite the recession & high unemployment, active travel tour companies are seeing an increase in visitor traffic and, in some cases, they're having record years.
• In addition to private travel companies, states and municipalities are seeing an increase in bicycle-related visits and, as a result, many are increasing their marketing toward the active travelers.
• More communities are beginning to add infrastructure such as trails and lodging to attract bicyclists.
• U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray  LaHood seems to be a big supporter of bicycling and other modes of alternative transportation.
• The Rail-Trail network continues to expand in both potential (new land acquired) and in trail miles.
• The U.S. is seeing an increased influx of travelers from other countries who travel here specifically to utilize the rail-trails.

None of this is surprising or new to me. I spend vast amounts of time on the trail all throughout the United States. I see more and more people of all ages, shapes, and backgrounds riding their bikes on our network of rail-trails.

As I talk to people, I notice a fairly equal mix. About half of them are locals, out enjoying the fresh air and exercise. The other half are travelers who specifically planned their vacation around one or more rail trail. Some of them are U.S. citizens and others come from around the world. These people stay in local hotels, eat at local restaurants, and buy souvenirs in local stores. In other words, they are helping to boost the local economy. And in every instance, they are friendly, kind, and caring people. They are truly interested in their health, the outdoors, and the local culture; they are just the type of tourists every town dreams of.

But don't take my word for it. Get out on a trail; talk to your fellow trail-users. You will enjoy both the  outdoor experience and the social experience.

Bicycle Travel on the Rise