The question is "Where do I begin?". Perhaps with the fact that the bike trail is a 20 mile loop that doesn't cross a single city street? Perhaps with the fact that entire thing is paved and maintained regularly? Perhaps that it contains some of the most beautiful natural views of the city?
These are all great ways to talk about the bike trail. It was with the bike trail that I first started to feel that I could attempt to do something more. The first time I went around the trail it was arduous. The miles felt like forever, and at several points I debated turning around and giving up. But over 2 hours and several stops later, I finished that first 20 miles. At the time that was the longest distance and time that I had ever spent on the bike, but I really enjoyed it.
Now I've made countless loops of the bike trail. Many of them solo, and many of them with others. Some of my favorite parts of the trail include rolling down the switchbacks into Falls Park, winding through downtown underneath the arc of dreams, especially at night. and taking a short detour to get ice cream from Stensland on 41st Street.
The bike trail is used by many people for many reasons. You'll find lots of walkers, joggers, skateboards, roller bladers and more. There's a strong chance that you'll encounter some sort of urban wildlife. I've seen everything from song birds, to deer, and even families of turkeys. And yes, turkeys can fly. I've seen it.
Whatever your reason for using the trail, I'm glad the city took a chance and made it happen. Now that they've seen how popular it is, I'm even more glad they're looking for opportunities to expand it. Now let's get out and get moving!
'till next time!
-Matt
Comments