Now I ask ya … which looks more inviting … the “interstate” on the left or the “conventional highway” on the right?
Most of us probably know that travelling on a conventional highway is slower but more scenic than travelling on an interstate highway. Interstate highways are usually thought to be rather boring in comparison. As for me I equate most rail trails to an interstate highway. They are usually pretty straight and relatively flat. I have always been a person who prefers variety. I can’t stand monotony. Working on an assembly line is not for me. Riding in a relatively straight line is oh so boring to me. I also like and appreciate good shade trees along the trail. I have ridden on some rail trails that don’t have any trees at all and in the hot summer it was miserable not having shade trees for relief from the scorching sun. Now I know that there are exceptions to all of this. Some rail trails offer curves, and scenery as well as good shade. Others, however, offer nothing but mile after mile of absolutely nothing of interest.
Here where I live and ride (Fort Wayne, Indiana) we only have one rail trail, the Pufferbelly Trail. I am pleased to say that it is an exception to most of what I mentioned. It has some curves in it and quite a bit of shade in much of it. In fact, it is one of my favorite trails to ride.
And then there is the St. Joseph Pathway. For years we waited for the trail to be built on the west side of the St. Joe River. Meanwhile we rode on the east side of the river on the trail thru Purdue University property. It follows along the river making turns. It has always been a fun trail to ride on. They eventually got the trail built on the west side of the river but it is a straight line with no shade trees at all. When I ride on the St. Joe Pathway I usually ride on the west side of the river going one direction but on my return I usually ride back on the east side of the river as I just like riding on that trail. The west side is boring but the east side if fun to ride on. Yep, like riding on a conventional highway vs. an interstate highway. Interesting and fun vs. Boring! That is the way I see it and that is the way I call it. You may or may not agree. But deep down you know I am right, right? 
Hey, whatever trail you are travelling on …
ENJOY THE RIDE!
A FREE GIFT awaits you!
We have the Pinellas Trail here which is pretty straight but it does have some shade and it goes through the center of several towns, like Dunedin, Florida, where you can stop for lunch or coffee. There is even a bike shop right on the trail there.