10Best: Bike rides by the water

Travelers who love waterfronts and cycling can find both on a growing network of bike trails. “It’s the best recreational riding. The scenery is great, and there’s a dedicated bike path, so you don’t have to worry about traffic,” says Adam McDermott, founder ofLinus Bike, which makes vintage-style European city cycles. “It’s the best thing to do with your family.” He shares some favorite pathways with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

Marvin Braude Bike Trail

Los Angeles

A Southern California favorite, this 22-mile path, also known as The Strand, connectsWill Rogers State Beach with Torrance Beach, passing through iconic sites like Santa Monica and Venice Beach. “The scenery changes dramatically as you bike down the coast. These are prime tourist destinations,” McDermott says. He and his staff are regulars on the trail, located just a few blocks from the Linus headquarters. 

Gitchi-Gami State Trail

Two Harbors, Minn.

The best way to experience the grandeur of Lake Superior is to pedal its shoreline. Cyclists also have the opportunity to see animal and bird life as the trail passes through forest. The path currently stretches more than 29 miles in multiple segments, the longest almost 15 miles. When complete, the 88-mile paved path will connect Two Harbors with Grand Marais, Minn. ggta.org

East Bay Bike Path

Providence, R.I.

Over its 13.8-mile length, this path connects eight parks on its route from Providence to Bristol. Built on an abandoned rail line, it offers cyclists views of the tidal Providence River. “The path allows people to easily escape the city and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells as they pass through coves and marshes,” McDermott says. 401-253-7482;riparks.com/Locations/LocationEastBay.html

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Anchorage

Don’t expect to be cycling this 11-mile trail alone. While the trail begins in downtown Anchorage, it quickly heads into forest. Depending on the time of day or year, you may encounter moose, wolves and eagles, along with beluga whales cavorting offshore in Knik Arm, which connects to the Gulf of Alaska. anchoragecoastaltrail.com

Island Line Trail

Burlington, Vt.

One of New England’s top trails offers views of the Adirondack Mountains and massive Lake Champlain. The 14-mile converted rail line connects several shoreline parks, and at one point cyclists are surrounded by water when they cross an elevated causeway 20 feet above the lake’s surface. The path even has a bike ferry, bridging a 200-foot gap in the causeway.