More families are choosing to see the sights from the seat of a bike. Here are five places where your crew can merrily roll along.
1. Bar Harbor, Maine. Explore 45 miles of Maine's Acadia National Park via the rustic carriage roads made possible by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. The historic, 16-foot-wide pathways were originally designed to enable the Rockefeller family to navigate the area on horseback or in horse-drawn carriages. Thus, none of the roads are too curvy or steep, making them ideal for family cyclists of various ages and abilities. Pick up single, tandem or tagalong bikes and helmets in town and catch a free ride via shuttle into the country's first National Park east of the Mississippi. Contact: http://www.acadiabike.com; http://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
2. Block Island, R.I. Relish ocean views that rival Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket. Yet, you'll enjoy the laid-back vibe of this scenic star that somehow stays slightly under the radar as a tourism destination. Mostly flat, smooth paved roads make it possible for two-wheeling tourists to enjoy this wonderland that the Nature Conservancy deems one of the "Last Great Places" in the Western Hemisphere. You'll also enjoy fresh seafood, walking on crescent beaches and learning about the local history. Contact: http://www.GreatFreedomAdventures.com
3. Tuscany, Italy. Meet a four-legged truffle detective. Savor gelato in San Gimignano. Look forward to olive oil, fine wine and feasting on homemade pizza as you pedal through Tuscany with your family. Cruise past vineyards, cypress trees and iconic landmarks that make working your way up to the scenic hill towns worth every rotation. Savor a gourmet picnic on a working farm. Visit charming villages, take watercolor lessons and steep yourselves in Italian art history. Craft your own or choose from numerous family itineraries designed for younger siblings, teens and multigenerational groups. Contact: http://www.Backroads.com
4. Spokane, Wash. Go with a guide or chart your own course as you explore the tunnels, trestles and natural beauty of the rail-trails of eastern Washington; Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and on to the Montana border. Level, paved and pristine pathways make for stress-free but varied and scenic family cycling. Up the adventure quotient by mixing in a day kayaking, rafting or fishing on local rivers. Stop by a hot spring or consider a side hike. Contact: 800-451-6034; http://www.rowadventurecenter.com; http://www.VisitIdaho.org
5. Your world, your way. Join the growing number of active families choosing international, self-guided bike trips. Itineraries include cruising Patagonia's lake district, peddling past tulips and windmills in the Netherlands or checking out the castles of the Loire Valley. A good choice for clans interested in a less scripted and lower-priced adventure, families can still expect luggage transfers, lodging and some meals to be included in the trip price. The Colorado-based, family-owned company offers global cycling tours in more than 20 countries on five continents. Ask about discounts and specific trip recommendations for children. Contact: http://www.ExperiencePlus.com
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(Lynn O'Rourke Hayes (www.LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com
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