During the early days of the COVID-induced Great Bike Shortage, I stood in line with a neighbor to buy a used bike. Her first bike.

As I’ve watched outdoor recreation interest explode, it’s made me reflect on how a simple bike ride on a rail-trail saved my life.

In the 20 years since its construction, Rosemary Laporte has hardly missed a day on the Manhan Rail Trail, a paved 6-mile route across Easthampton in western Massachusetts. Rain or shine, she starts her day around 6 a.m. with a leisurely stroll along the beloved trail. Most days, she walks with a friend.

After finding a tandem bike I could use the sky (or at least as far as we were able to drive) has been the limit in exploring rail-trails.

We became a daily fixture on the sidewalks of our neighborhood. Soon, we became known as “the riding couple” on the weekends.

We love that Miranda inspires people to feel more connected to the outdoors… and the Great American Rail-Trail.

After a long day of being in the house, sitting in front of a computer for seven hours, the only thing I wanted to do was close down my Zoom and go outside and ride my bike.

Hear from four Baltimore trail advocates to learn what the trail network means to them and for their community.

Saul is 22 and has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. He has needed to use a power wheelchair full time since about age 14, but that has not stopped him from exploring the outdoors.

Here are 5 #TrailMoments that were particularly special for Ian Mackay during the 2020 year.