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Best Bike Trails In Baltimore

Whether they are asphalt, pavement, dirt or gravel, bike trails offer a great way to sight see while connecting the urban and suburban areas of the city. In the Baltimore area, there are several bike trails which lend themselves to great adventures.
Gwynns Falls Trail
www.gwynnsfallstrail.org

This trail connects west and southwest Baltimore along a 15-mile stretch. Gwynns Falls Trail meanders its way through landmarks and business areas as well as neighborhoods. It is a great place for both pedestrians and cyclists. The Gwynns Falls Trail follows the path of its namesake creek as it connects Middle River to Baltimore's downtown Inner Harbor. This trail, owned and managed by the Baltimore City Department of Parks and Recreation, is also great for hiking, picnicking and rollerblading.

Jones Falls Trail
www.jonesfallstrail.us

Also owned and managed by the Baltimore City Department of Parks and Recreation, this 10-mile trail extends from the Mount Washington Light Rail station to Baltimore's downtown Inner Harbor. It passes through the famous Druid Hill Park and along other scenic historical sites in the area as you travel, mostly uphill, along the trail. The Jones Falls Trail is named for the falls along which it extends.

Herring Run Trail
www.bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/parks/herring-run

This 2.5-mile trail gives bikers a wonderful opportunity to view the peaceful scenery and wildlife located in and around  the Herring Run Park. The trail winds along the stream of the same name as it provides a safe haven for bikers in an urban environment. The trail is located adjacent to open areas which are great for picnicking and recreational sports.The Herring Run Trail extends from Harford Road and Chesterfield to south of Sinclair Lane.

Related:  Ask An Expert: Best Bike Rides In Baltimore

Grist Mill Trail
www.patapscoheritagegreenway.org

This trail, also 2.5 miles, is located in one of the state's oldest parks, Patapsco State Park. Located in Baltimore and Howard counties, this trail provides a scenic view of the historic sites along the way, including the old Grist Mill, which burned down in 1928. The Grist Mill Trail extends from Lost Lake to Ilchester Road. The Grist Mill Trail is a great spot for fishing, skating, horseback riding and it is wheelchair accessible.

Patuxent Branch Trail

Patuxent Branch Trail, located in Howard County near Baltimore, extends along the famous Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line for a stretch of 20 miles. It takes you through sidewalk areas, lakes and the picturesque county area. The trail is a combination of pavement and gravel, with beautiful and historic sites to see. In addition, there is a picnic area complete with a playground where you can rest before tackling the next leg of your bike ride. The Patuxent Branch Trail extends from Savage Park to Lake Elkhorn in Columbia.

Related: Best Walking/Biking Trails In Maryland

Vickie Lawson is a freelance writer whose work can be found on Examiner.com.
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