Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks, REI and Bikemore have teamed up to create a fun-filled day along the Jones Falls Trail on Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate Opening Day for Trails 2016.
Join the partners for morning refreshments at Cylburn Arboretum followed by a leisurely walk, guided trail tour, bike ride or run down the Jones Falls Trail. The Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks will provide bikes for those who wish to borrow them (ID required), and shuttles will be provided to transport individuals back to the starting point at Cylburn Arboretum.
The Jones Falls Trail wanders through bucolic forests, arboretums and parks, former industrial mills, stream valleys, redeveloped urban villages and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The trail tours will focus on watershed ecology, Baltimore history, parks, and open space planning.
“RTC’s annual Opening Day for Trails is a great way for people to enjoy the nation’s network of trails, which serve as catalysts for creating healthier places for healthier people across the country,” said RTC President Keith Laughlin. “Engaging everyone in America to champion trail networks is at the heart of our movement. There are many ways to get involved: become a member, plug in to our social media, spread the word or just walk or ride your local rail-trail.”
Increased mobility, improved public health, economic development, a cleaner environment and enhanced community are some of the primary benefits of active-transportation systems. A member-supported nonprofit, RTC has been advocating for the development and protection of trails throughout America since 1986.
Opening Day for Trails events are free and open to the public. Visit railstotrails.org/OpeningDay to take this year’s pledge to get out on a trail on Opening Day. All individuals who take the pledge will be entered for a chance to win a free bike from Fuji.