Houston Bike Trail

Recently, a longtime friend phoned from California inquiring about the biking system in Houston. She had read an article recommending the trails to cyclists. As a bike rider, I knew about the natural beauty of the bayou trails, as well as the added convenience for safe commuting on 2 wheels, but I had not realized the far-reaching implications of the Bayou Greenways project. *Bayou Greenways 2020 is a multiphase project estimated at $215 million. Upon completion, it will be a system of 150 miles of trails and pathways connecting Houston’s parks along its major bayous with public green spaces, major institutions, and diverse neighborhoods. This system will embrace the cultural and socioeconomic diversity of a city that spans nearly 650 square miles. While the primary beneficiaries will be the residents of Houston’s city limits, all visitors to Houston will also enjoy this unique amenity not found anywhere else in the country. Welcome to the Bayou City.

Although the day was gray, the cool breeze made for a pleasant ride beginning at Stude Park into downtown.

From Stude Park, this portion of trail evades major highways and thoroughfares while safely leading to downtown along White Oak Bayou.

Following the bayou and bike trail as it leads to the city.

Along the trail are sign posts leading to various neighborhoods throughout the urban landscape. Many of the connectors are newly finished and more are under construction. The estimated date for completion is 2020.

Spring Street is located in Houston's Historic First Ward.

Crossing the bayou into downtown.

The north side of downtown Houston.

Once inside the city, the bike trail leads to the streets and sidewalks. Everything from concert and sporting events to the theater, ballet, and opera are accessible by bike. Houston is a thriving metropolis with an immense diversity and international arts and culture scene.

City Streets

City Sidewalks

Traffic in downtown was hectic. After wandering the busy and congested streets, I headed back to the bike path leading west through First Ward to my home in the Heights.

Houston Ave and Spring Street Connector.

Stude Park, back to where I started.

While traveling the Houston Bike Trail, I passed many native species of plants and animals. The bayous are teaming with life and the Bayou Greenway project is allowing locals and visitors alike to share in the magnificence of Houston's natural surroundings. You do not need to be a seasoned cyclist to enjoy the trail system. I completed the journey solo on a single gear beach cruiser with coaster breaks. Visitors can rent bikes via kiosks located throughout the city. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The fabulous fall weather is an ideal time of year to enjoy the bayous and parks of Houston. To find bike rentals visit Houston BCycle for locations and a downloadable app to help navigate the city *For more information about the Bayou Greenway project and maps of the trail system visit http://www.bayougreenways.org If I can do it, You can do it

My well worn beach cruiser.