Amazing water views — Photo courtesy of Arlington County Government
Arlington, Virginia is most commonly known for the Pentagon and the Arlington National Cemetery. However, active locals appreciate the town for its outdoorsy attractions, such as its bike trails. According to the Arlington County government, Arlington has approximately 50 miles of bike trails, which were built at various times for different reasons.
Many larger trails were built in the 1970s and 1980s in response to public requests. For example, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) built the Custis trail in conjunction with highway I-66 to provide citizens another mode of transportation. The National Park Service built the Mount Vernon Trail as an amenity along the George Washington Parkway, due to residents' requests. Other trails, such as Four Mile Run and Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) were converted from railroad trails.
Couples cycling — Photo courtesy of Arlington County Government
Arlington County maintains 36 miles of off-street, multi-use trails for bicycling, walking and jogging. Portions of these trails pass through beautiful natural areas of Arlington’s park system and connect to regional bike trails. Arlington's marked, on-street bicycle routes connect the off-street trails with each other and with destinations throughout the city. So, it's easy to provide 10 reasons why Arlington is a great cycling town.
1. Biking to work
People that work in the District or in Arlington can bike to work. Providing an efficient trail system that allows residents to get to and from work via bicycle has a ripple affect.
2. Great for all skill levels
You don't have to be an avid cyclist to utilize the trail. It's designed for more casual biking
3. Bike sharing
The trail is a part of the Capital Bike Share program that has 100 stations between Arlington and D.C. It's an inexpensive and healthy way to get around the two attraction-filled towns. 
Well-paved trails — Photo courtesy of Arlington County Government
4. Visitors feel at home
Foreign visitors who are accustomed to biking can enjoy the bike share program and have a chance to continue their way of life while visiting and exploring the area.
5. Focus on green living
Arlington is focused on green living and providing alternative modes of transportation. Many people that live and work in the Maryland, D.C., Virginia area know just how bad traffic is on a daily basis. Getting some of the people out of their cars and onto their bikes benefits the environment as well as residents' physical well-being. 
Cycling to work — Photo courtesy of Arlington County Government
6. Sightseeing
Arlington's trails go through parks, which is perfect for sightseeing and making new local discoveries.
7. Mild spring and fall
Particularly in the spring and the fall, the trails offer residents an opportunity to get out and enjoy nature.
8. Safe cycling
Arlington makes cycling safe and easy for riders by marking streets with dedicated bike lanes. 
Casual bike ride — Photo courtesy of Arlington County Government
9. Different view of city
The trails allow you to see the city in a different way than you would on a tour bus.
10. Connected to D.C.
Arlington is a stones-throw away from D.C.; the river separates these neighbors. Whether you're staying in Arlington or in D.C., you can use the bike trails to easily get between the two, car-free.
