Hopping on a bike is the ideal way to experience this beautiful place we call home. Whether you prefer leisurely rides along the beach or more challenging routes, there's a trail for everyone. For instance, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park offers over 25 miles of paved pathways through diverse ecosystems, providing endless opportunities for exploration. 

Here are a few other ways to help you enjoy life on two wheels during National Bike Month:

National Ride a Bike Day - May 5

The wheels start turning on Sunday, May 5, with National Ride a Bike Day. It's an open invitation for everyone to dust off their bicycles, oil the chains, and hit the scenic multi-use trails that wind through Gulf Shores. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, this is the perfect opportunity to explore our local natural beauty. 

National Bike to School Day - May 8

On Wednesday, May 8, Gulf Shores gears up for National Bike to School Day at two designated spots. Kids Park Playground at Johnnie Sims Park and Meyer Park serve as the starting and ending locations for students embarking on this pedal-powered journey to school. Here are some details to help make the ride go smoothly. 

Morning Ride to School: 

•    Students bicycling from Sims Park need to arrive at 7 a.m.; students will depart at 7:15 a.m.

•    Students departing from Meyer Park need to arrive at 7:15 a.m.; students will depart at 7:30 a.m.

•    All students will arrive at school at 7:45 a.m.

After School Ride: 

•    All Students will depart from school at 3 p.m.

•    Students bicycling to Meyer Park will arrive at 3:15 p.m.

•    Students bicycling to Sims Park will arrive at 3:30 p.m.

Safety is a top priority for the Bike to School Day event. Helmets are a must, and children in second grade and below are encouraged to ride alongside a responsible adult. All rides will be accompanied by representatives from the Gulf Shores Police Department, City of Gulf Shores, and Gulf Shores City Schools. Here’s an overview of the route:

In the event of inclement weather, the Bike to School ride will be postponed to Wednesday, May 15. 

National Bike to Work Week - May 13-19

From May 13-19, Gulf Shores joins the nation in celebrating National Bike to Work Week, culminating in the official Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 17. It's a chance to strap on your helmet and leave the car keys at home for a greener, healthier (and funner!) alternative. 

“With Gulf Shores being named a Bronze-Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists in 2018, these events are essential to maintaining that status within our community,” Andy Bauer, City of Gulf Shores Zoning Administrator, said. “This is an opportunity for us, the City of Gulf Shores, to further invest in our residents, both adults and children, by promoting a healthy lifestyle as we encourage a more active bicycling community.”

In addition to these events, the Gulf Shores Recreation Department will be holding a special bike challenge called "Do the Ride Thing!" during the month of May. This is a FREE four-week outdoor bike challenge with weekly mileage goals. Click here for more information on the listed events for Bike Month.