“We should be exposing our students to lifelong physical activity and should be helping them develop the skills and confidence to enjoy those activities,” said Jack Hatert, principal of McKinney Middle School. “Our schools are the heartbeat of a cycling community, and we have to pass the passion on to our students.”

The Great American Rail-Trail® and its hosts trails connect to many places of learning, history and culture where students can take a break from the grind of classwork and explore. Here are some of our favorites.

Family, work and life combined with the Great American Rail-Trail announcement to push me toward a commitment to a long-distance bike trip.

Meet Ivory Levert and Angela Mitchell, the power pair beyond Black Women In Nature, and learn how they’re inspiring more people to get outside on the trail!

For me, the positive impact that going car-free has on air quality, reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions and decreasing traffic congestion far outweighs the benefits of owning a car.

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!

Ian Mackay formally started his Great American Rail-Trail ride from the National Mall to the C&O Canal Towpath trailhead in Georgetown.

Megan Gray, equestrian on the trail: If you have lost yourself somewhere —I promise you that trails will help you find yourself again.

@vanessa_chav: It is paramount to reject exclusionary narratives and advocate for access to the outdoors for all. It is a basic human right.”

@vanessa_chav: It is paramount to reject exclusionary narratives and advocate for access to the outdoors for all. It is a basic human right.”