Whatever your reason – frustrating gas prices, concern for your carbon footprint, or just the need to slow down and actually take in the world around you – biking is the new leisurely drive.

This popular activity fits the bill on all three counts. It certainly cuts down on the fuel expense. It’s also the greenest way to travel and therefore a popular choice for ecotours. And for slowing things down? There’s almost nothing better.

America’s coastlines offer some of the best cycling tours in the nation. With beautiful seashore on one and a variety of scenery on the other, these tours are the perfect way to really discover wherever it is that you are.

Ocean City, Maryland, is one such coast – one you may not have thought of before. What this area offers on the other side of your trail from the seashore? Both nature and charm. There are hundreds of miles of bike trails in the area, along both Maryland’s and Virginia’s coasts, through forests, along rivers, and beside and through historic towns.

Ocean City itself offers a three-mile boardwalk visitors love. Even the side streets are worth exploring here; much of Ocean City’s historic downtown has been restored for even more to enjoy.

The Viewtrail is a 100-mile loop in rural Worcester County. Its highly scenic, definitely low-impact, and perfect for group travel, students, and romantic getaways. It offers the perfect respite from the daily grind and the perfect way to enjoy Maryland’s natural beauty and historic charm.

This is just one example – one area in the country that’s rolled out the red carpet of asphalt for those who love to tour on bicycle. There are many more – probably some near you, definitely scenic routes throughout the United States that create the perfect vacation getaway. Next time you discover a new place, rent a bicycle. It’s a beautiful way to go.

Photo by oedipusphinx on Flickr.