Minneapolis just may be the most bicycle-friendly city in the country. First, there’s the terrain. It’s practically perfect. Then there’s the climate (at least aside from the wintertime). Autumn is outstanding. Finally, there are the bicycle paths. Here are some of the best:
The Midtown Greenway is a six-mile path that connects to the West River Parkway trail. En route stop in for a bite at the Midtown Global Market. It’s an international food market replete with some 50 locally-owned businesses. A baguette, some water, fruit and cheese will keep you pedaling for while.
Cedar Lake Trail bills itself as American’s first bike freeway. It has two separate lanes for bicycle traffic, and one for pedestrians. The route tracks the BNSF Railway line out of downtown Minneapolis. Take that bounty you bought at the market and stop along the way to enjoy a picnic at Brownie Lake.
If it’s pure scenery you seek, not mere exercise, pedal to the West or East River Parkways. This stretch of trail is part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, one of but two national scenic byways set in an urban environment. If affords extraordinary views of the Mississippi River.
Savor the summer, its people and its rhythms, with a round trip from Lake Harriet along Minnehaha Creek & Lake Hiawatha. Take in a band shell concert. Relax and watch dogs race about in the dog park. Meander along Minnehaha Creek and see folks paddle their canoes under the blue, vaulted sky. Then, it’s on to Lake Hiawatha for the final part of your epic pedal.
Wind up your Minneapolis bicycle odyssey with a journey along Veterans Memorial Parkway. Stop along the way and read, really read, the plaques implanted there. They bear mute witness to what these men and women sacrificed.
(Image: parl)
