The five best of 2023

My top five Tom on the Trails newsletters for 2023

2023 was a banner year for trails with 2024 a few days away. According to the Rails to Trails Conservancy, local trail usage increases by 80% when the trails are included in a trail network such as the Ohio to Erie Trail. The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs AcI doubled investment in trails.

I authored 43 newsletters during the past year on Tom in the Trails. Here are what I believe are my top five newsletters. They are worth a read as a newer subscriber or a reread as a long-term subscriber. Thank you for your support in 2023.

A look at the e-bike community

There are misconceptions about e-bikes, the people on e-bikes, and the reasons people find themselves on an e-bike. E-bike sales are growing exponentially. I see that on trails and streets. People, often people not seen as traditional cyclists, use an e-bike for a variety of reasons. The pervasive American view of cycling as a recreational sport is challenged as e-bikes move America to the worldview of cycling being part of daily life.

OH, why not?

I underappreciate what Ohio has to offer as an Ohioan. Ohio has a rich history that is a mix of its industrial and agricultural past. The terrain varies from the foothills of Appalachia in the east to the plains in the west. The Ohio to Erie Trail cuts diagonally across the state highlighting the many faces of the state from small rural crossroads to large urban spaces. It is an experience to savor for Ohio residents and visitors alike

Twenty ways to respect the bike.

This is my take on people and bikes on the trail. My inspiration comes from a bicycle leader training course. The instructor made a statement that remains at the top of my mind. It reminds me why I should welcome anyone on a bike. “If you ride a bike, you are a cyclist.” It's about freeing your preconceptions of cyclists by what they wear, their physical appearance, their speed and distance cycled, and the bike they are riding.

Six Ways to Support a Trail Town

I advocate for trail towns, towns along a trail with a culture of welcoming trail visitors.  Trail organizations, government agencies, chambers of commerce, and local businesses lead the way to enable this culture. I share how trail visitors can help towns embrace trail tourism and enable a trail economy and culture benefiting the town, businesses, residents, and visitors.

A trail experience for all

I discovered trails fourteen years ago. I came to value these paths in every season in many ways over the years. They are safe traffic-free paths for walks, runs, bike rides, and getting from point A to point B. Trails nurture your mental state, physical health, sense of belonging, and appreciation of nature and the world around us. Spend some time reflecting on the benefits trails bring to your life that last beyond your time on the trail.

"The best is yet to come." — Frank Sinatra

Happy trails in 2024!
Tom on the Trails