Bicyling

Bicycling is an increasingly popular pastime in Tennessee. Only in a handful of urban areas, and on some college campuses, is bicycling a form of regular transportation. But mountain and road-biking is popular for staying fit and having fun.

Of course you can bicycle just about anywhere (but not on the interstates). Cities such as Nashville [1], Knoxville [2], and Murfreesboro have greenways especially for bikers (and walkers). Dedicated mountain bike trails are popping up in parks across the state, including at Montgomery Bell State Park, Big Ridge State Park, and Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. City parks in Memphis [3] and Nashville [1] also welcome bikers.

The Tennessee Bicycle Racing Association (www.tbra.org [4]) promotes biking and is an umbrella organization for several local bike groups. The Tennessee Mountain Biking Alliance (http://mtb-tn.blogspot.com [5]) promotes mountain biking and can put you in touch with mountain bikers in your neck of the woods. Local bike shops are also a good place to find out about good bike routes, local safety issues, and upcoming events.