Tips for Biking the Towpath Trail

Before you hop on your bike, here are a few helpful tips from area cyclists.

• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen and biking gloves too!
• Consider padded shorts for southern limestone surface portions of the trail.
• Hybrid or mountain bike tires are best — the wider tires are better for the crushed limestone found along much of the southern sections.
• Bike bell is a key safety item to let people know you’re coming. Pass on the left and ride single file.
• Bright clothing and flashing taillights are very helpful for early morning and dusk riding as the Towpath Trail is not lit in all areas.
• E-bikes are limited to 15 miles per hour on most portions of the Towpath Trail.
• The Towpath Trail is a very popular walking and hiking path, especially in the National Park. Watch for pedestrians and signal when passing.
• Not all trailheads have restrooms or drinking water. Plan ahead and know where you can find amenities.
• Use trail etiquette, like biking single file and cleaning up after yourself.