Cycling improves both your health and the planet's, but biking can sometimes be tricky if you don't know where you can ride safely or if you don't have the right gear.

Here's the lowdown on making every trip a joy in Tampa Bay:

Take these trails

If you're ready to ride and want to pedal like a pro, here are three places in TBAY to cycle to your heart's content:

The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail | 47 miles
This Pinellas County trail is a hotbed for commuters trying to get to work instead of using a motor vehicle. The trail stretches from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg, passing through Palm Harbor, Dunedin, Belleair, Clearwater, Largo, Seminole, South Pasadena, and Gulfport.

The Courtney Campbell Trail | 10.5 miles
Looking to get from Pinellas to Hillsborough? This trail lets you cruise alongside the scenic Courtney Campbell Causeway over Old Tampa Bay.

The Tampa Riverwalk | 2.6 miles
Ride along the Hillsborough River and pass some of Tampa's most iconic spots: Armature Works, The Tampa Museum of Art, and Amalie Arena. Plus, enjoy the small, shaded bench areas if you're looking for an oasis from the sun.

Get this gear

If you are looking for some gear to make your ride better, try these:

The Problem: 🚶‍♀️You don't own a bike
The Fix: Download the HOPR Transit app and find a ride at any of the Coast Bike Share Hubs around Tampa and St. Pete.

The Problem: 🎒 Lugging stuff around
The Fix: A better backpack. Tampa Bay Outfitters offers the Osprey Syncro 12, complete with a water reservoir — which is perfect for keeping you hydrated in the Florida sunshine.

The Problem: 🌧 Rain
The Fix: Almost all bike shops in the area sell fenders or mudguards that can keep your derrière dry and clean when peddling over a puddle. Pro tip: we highly recommend these clip-on ones.

Bonus problem: 💤 Tired legs
The Fix: Most PSTA + HART buses are equipped to transport you and your bike. Some let you stow your bike on the front, but on the SunRunner, you can bring your ride inside.

Did we miss your favorite spot to bike? Please email us your favorite trails + gear.