Bicycling

Additions of bicycle lanes around the Inner Harbor and on main thoroughfares such as St. Paul Street have spelled major victories for Baltimore’s bicyclists. Just a few years ago, it would have been impossible to explore inner city Baltimore on two wheels. Now that’s changing, although there’s still a lot of work to be done to make the city truly bike-friendly.

The city's most defined network of bicycling paths is the Gwynns Falls Trail, which connects 2,000 acres of public land in and around Baltimore. The trail, which was completed in the past couple of years, stretches for about 15 miles. Maps are available at www.gwynnsfallstrail.org. Or you could head to one of the city's parks or out of town to dedicated cycling trails.

Baltimore and Annapolis Trail. Just south of the city is the Baltimore and Annapolis Trail; to get on the trail near BWI airport, follow I–695 to I–97 south, take Exit 15 onto Dorsey Road, heading west away from the airport. Look for signs for Saw Mill Creek Park, which has 13 mi of paved trails, open space, bridges, and woodlands. Baltimore, MD. 410/222–6244.

Light Street Cycles. Bikes can be rented from Light Street Cycles; ask for a map of local trails. 1015 Light St., Federal Hill, Baltimore, MD, 21230. 410/685–2234. lightstcycles.com.

Northern Central Railroad Hike and Bike Trail. North of the city, the 21-mi Northern Central Railroad Hike and Bike Trail extends along the old Northern Central Railroad to the Maryland–Pennsylvania line. It begins at Ashland Road, just east of York Road in Hunt Valley, and heads north 20 mi to the Pennsylvania border. Parking is available at seven points along the way. Baltimore, MD. 410/592–2897. www.dnr.state.md.us.