Page 20 - LIN APRIL All Pages

there's backpacking and then there's bikepacking

by Susan Sonnenschein,
Naples Pathways Coalition, Board of Directors

If you're looking for a fun adventure, consider One morning, we had some drizzle, but we were prepared with
a bikepacking trip. You can choose from a myriad rain gear. The afternoons were warm, requiring extra water and
of trails across the country or the world, pack something clean to wear for the evening. Because there is little time
your gear on your bike, and head out on one of for laundry, wearing clothes more than once is perfectly fine.
the best ways to experience nature, history, new Each little town had some historical aspect and local color
destinations, and interesting people. The variety, - from an elegant bed and breakfast to a tired but welcoming
length of days, miles, locale, accommodations, old motel with an equally old dog; local pizza joints and bars to
and assistance available barbecue on the river, and kids selling
today is mind-boggling! You can go with cold drinks on the trail. There was no lack
an organized group or on your own if you of engaging local people. They were so
prefer. The key is to plan ahead, especially appreciative of bike travelers, who have
if you need to rent bikes or travel some saved many "trail towns" by providing
distance. industry and significantly contributing to
On a recent trip, we made our the local economy, also true in the case of
arrangements with a Pittsburgh bike the GAP. Business thrives, property values
shop that specializes in trips on the increase and crime is reduced near trails –
Great Allegheny Passage, a historic, indeed a win for everyone!
decommissioned railroad converted into a Bike trails make a phenomenal addition
rail-trail for biking, walking and running. to any community. As Naples Pathways
As it's commonly called, the GAP is on Coalition works to develop the Paradise
many cyclists' bucket lists. The trail travels Coast Trail in Collier County, we have so
from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., much to look forward to: an incredible
crosses the Eastern Continental Divide, amenity that will enhance our quality of
the Mason-Dixon Line, and is the route life, broaden tourism offerings (especially
that Lincoln's casket took after his death. important when our water quality is a
We felt as though we were journeying concern), improved safety for recreation
through meaningful American history, and and commuting, benefits to the local
it was fun to chat with locals, learn about economy and more! Generally speaking,
their town's history, and stay in bed and cyclists love the outdoors, enjoy meeting
breakfasts that cater to cyclists. locals and respect their surroundings.
Golden Triangle Bikes offered our A Naples bicycling trip to our tropical
trip with an a la carte menu of services. paradise will be on many future bucket lists,
We had them plan our route, make no doubt!
reservations at bed and breakfasts and To learn more about Naples Pathways
transport us plus our bikes from Pittsburgh Coalition (NPC) and the Paradise Coast
to Cumberland, Maryland, where we began Trail (the PCT), please visit
our trip. On the 100-mile van ride, we www.NaplesPathways.org/PCTrail.
discovered that our driver's in-laws live in Naples – a small world You can become a member of NPC, donate, volunteer, and get
indeed! involved with some pretty great people, if I do say so myself!
The packing challenge: trying to pack four to five days gear into Our executive director, Michelle Avola-Brown, would be happy
those panniers (a basket, bag, or similar container, carried in pairs to answer any questions and help you get connected. She can be
and attached to the sides of a bicycle – see photo). Most mornings reached at Michelle@NaplesPathways.org or 239.777.7718.
were chilly - having a down jacket was a big plus!

20 Life in Naples | April 2022