Road Trip Idea #4: Let’s Bike!

Western Mass is known for its scenic beauty and what better way to enjoy it than by bike? You’ve probably exhausted the trails closest to your house so put the bikes on the rack and check out the many routes available to you in our neck of the woods.

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Connecticut Riverwalk & Bikeway

This 3.7 mile paved trail features stunning views of the Springfield skyline, Connecticut River and Memorial Bridge. Stop along the way at Springfield’s Riverfront Park to see the September 11th Memorial or continue to the north end and Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club. You might catch a glimpse of a kayak or two on the river as you pedal by.

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Columbia Greenway Rail Trail

Nearly 2.4 miles of paved, tree-lined trails cut through the city of Westfield and connect to the Southwick Rail Trail for another 7 miles to the Connecticut state border. The trail is mostly elevated and follows what once was the New York,/New Haven/Hartford Rail Line.

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Norwottuck Rail Trail

This year-round, 10-mile trail is wide and well-marked for all skill levels. You’ll find great mountain views and close-by pitstops including restaurants right off the trail. Looking for more? This trail also connects to the Northampton Bikeway and Manhan Rail Trail to Easthampton.

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Manhan Rail Trail

This 9.6 mile trail is truly a part of the community it serves. You’ll find plenty of Easthampton points of interest along the way including a few local breweries. It’s a relatively flat bikeway with stunning views of the nearby mountains. The trail also connects with the Norwottuck Trail in Northampton.

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Thunder Mountain Bike Park

Looking for a little more adventure? Pair one of these lovely, scenic trails with the heart-pounding adventure of Thunder Mountain Bike Park located at Berkshire East Mountain Resort. This park is a gravity down-hill park so you’ll ride the lift to the top where you’ll find trails from introductory level to professional. You’ll need a specific type of mountain bike for this park but no worries – Thunder Mountain has you covered with bike rentals and lessons if needed. Check out all there is to know about Thunder Mountain Bike Park here.

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Valley Bike Share

Don’t have a bike? No problem! Valley Bike Share is a network of bike rentals in cities and towns throughout Western Mass. Stop at one of the many kiosks and pay by the hour for an electric-assisted bike sure to make those pesky hills more manageable. For locations and details, click here.

There’s so much to do, consider a getaway and stay in one of the many hotels in Western Mass. For a complete list of hotels, restaurants, attractions and their individual safety protocols, click here.

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