The Adventure Cycling Association is inviting cyclists to ride through parks and public lands on September 24 for the first-ever Bike Your Park Day. This event marks two milestones: the Adventure Cycling Association’s 40th anniversary and the National Park Service’s centennial. Held on National Public Lands Day, September 24 also offers free admission to participating parks, giving cyclists a great opportunity to explore protected landscapes, trails, and historic sites.
Bike Your Park Day is designed to encourage people of all ages and abilities to experience public lands by bicycle. Participants can choose from organized rides, self-guided routes, or casual outings with friends and family. The event emphasizes sustainable recreation, low-impact travel, and the health and community benefits of cycling. By highlighting bike-friendly access to parks and public lands, the day aims to inspire more regular, year-round cycling and increased appreciation for local and national outdoor spaces.
Organizers expect a variety of activities at participating locations, including family-friendly rides, guided tours, maintenance workshops, and opportunities to learn about park history and conservation. Some parks may host volunteers or community groups to help with trail maintenance and habitat restoration projects tied to National Public Lands Day. Riders should check with individual parks for specifics on routes, facilities, and any event schedules.
Preparing for a ride on Bike Your Park Day means planning ahead: choose a route that matches your skill level, bring appropriate gear such as helmets, lights, water, and a basic repair kit, and dress for the weather. Many parks offer paved and unpaved trails, so knowing trail conditions in advance can help you pick the right bike—road, gravel, or mountain. If you’re attending a guided event, register if required and arrive early to meet leaders and get route information.
For families and newcomers to cycling, Bike Your Park Day offers an accessible introduction to riding in natural settings. Parks often provide shorter, flatter routes suitable for children and novice riders, along with educational programs that teach safe riding practices and basic bike maintenance. Participating can be a rewarding way to connect with nature, learn new skills, and build confidence on two wheels.
Communities benefit as well: local businesses near parks may see increased visitation, and cycling events can spur longer-term improvements in bike infrastructure and trail maintenance. The collaborative nature of Bike Your Park Day—bringing together cycling advocates, park staff, volunteers, and the public—helps strengthen support for parks and public lands while promoting active, sustainable recreation.
Whether you plan a short family ride or a longer tour through scenic public lands, Bike Your Park Day offers a meaningful way to celebrate outdoor recreation and the anniversary milestones of the Adventure Cycling Association and the National Park Service. Check with your local parks and recreation agencies for details on participating sites and scheduled activities, and consider making Bike Your Park Day a new annual tradition for exploring and protecting the places you love.