Ideal routes for urban cycling and sightseeing For many cyclists, spring means finally being able to bike again, a chance to return to a pedal-powered commute and explore. Cycling, especially bike sharing, offers some of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to check out new neighborhoods or experience a new city. With that in mind, Curbed has curated a list of great bikes rides in, around, or even between cities. From numerous rails-to-trails projects to great new urban infrastructure, here are a few of the many ways to explore the country on two wheels this season.

TMimages PDX: Flickr/Creative Commons

Willamette River Loop | Portland, Oregon
An excellent urban cycling trail and a great way to see Bridgetown, this mostly flat ride through areas south of downtown circles the city?s main waterway, offering an introduction to the landscape and views of many of the city?s famous bridges.
intrepidtrekr: Flickr/Creative Commons

Great Allegheny Passage | Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland
Formed by two railway grades that merge in the trail?s terminus of Cumberland, Maryland, this 150-mile continuous trail makes for a great biking trip. Riders can even connect with the 184.5-mile Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, providing a way to travel from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C.

Kristy Dactyl: Flickr/Creative Commons

Mississippi River Trail | New Orleans to St. James Parish, Louisiana
A 60-mile trail system that a...