To this day, I have had numerous visits to this trail, with my family, friends and other community members alongside me, biking, walking and hiking.

Here are six tips that will help make every trip safe and fun for everyone.

Trails were mostly relaxing for me and my dad. There were no cars. Navigating was easy. People were friendly. It was common for someone to come up and start talking to us while we were taking a break on a bench.

Here’s a Top 10 bucket list of trail experiences for fun in the sun. You can find options for other great summer outings on TrailLink™.

I ride for several reasons. First, it gives me an opportunity to mentally prepare for my day as a teacher, and time to unwind from the day and focus on my family at home. Second, I enjoy getting a workout in without having to put in additional time at a gym.

Franco Harris, who died in December 2022 at the age of 72, became an important advocate for trails and cycling, in particular. And he did so as a member of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) Board of Directors from 1992 to 1997.

As a longtime resident of Hyattsville, Maryland, I watched as the Anacostia River Trail (ART) was expanded and finally completed. It meanders along the Anacostia River from Bladensburg, Maryland, to D.C.’s Wharf area, about 12 miles one way. This is my favorite local trail—and it’s only 2 miles from my house!

Swap out a car trip for a trail trip to decrease your carbon footprint. The best part—it will help us feel better, too.

Janine Brobst has always been competitive, cruising ahead of her husband John during their bike rides together—even uphill. Today, at 91 she still beats her husband, six years her junior, and keeps up with her daughter who’s a spry 69. John pedals behind on his recumbent and they all meet up together at designated points along the route.

I’ll share some of the tips we used to help our daughter become a successful and happy rider, and we welcome advice from other parents.