Washington, with its plethora of fun, recreational activities, is a cyclist’s play haven. Being a quaint town with a flat landscape, it’s perfect whether you want speed, fitness, or just a relaxing way to tour the waterfront and historic district on two wheels.
Liane Harsh, owner of Inner Banks Outfitters, says that Washington has many country roads that are easily accessible from town. "Any of the rural roads are great to cycle on. There are a lot of less traveled roads that shoot off of Highway 17 and River Road. If you get out and around that area, there are a lot of country roads that are perfect for cycling." Harsh says that one of the weekend cycling groups uses the Market Street Extension quite a bit. "We use it a lot because there are some awesome little-traffic roads that shoot off of it."
When asked about cycling safety, Harsh says it really goes both ways. "Cyclists need to be respectful of the cars on the road. They need to ride on the side of the road; don’t take up the whole lane. You’re allowed to ride two bikes deep. To be honest, you’re much more visible two cars deep. And the cars just need to be gentle when they’re passing. Give the bikes some room and maybe slow down a little."
When asked what she would tell visitors who want to come to Washington to cycle, but are unsure, Harsh says "Cycling here is better than most places. We have a social cycling group. We have the most beautiful roads. It’s quiet. You get to see a side of Beaufort County that most people never get to see. I joke with my friends that I’ve probably been on roads in this county that most never knew existed. It’s really neat and it’s beautiful."
Harsh says that she hosts a couple of road bike rides from her shop. Group rides are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sunday mornings. "We have rides that are called ‘No drop,’ where we never leave anybody behind. So, you can come as a beginner rider, learn the roads, and never get lost or left behind." Tuesday is a ladies ride at 5:30pm. It’s about twenty miles. Inner Banks Outfitters also hosts the very popular Time Trials ride on Thursdays at 5:30pm where you’re racing yourself, aiming to get your best time possible on a twelve-mile ride. Sunday morning at 8:30am is another group ride, about thirty miles, that’s no drop. There is a Facebook group for anyone looking for ride information, the Inner Banks Cycling Group.
Washington City Manager Jonathan Russell says that the NCDOT recently put bike lanes on Carolina Avenue. "We [the City] asked them to put those lanes in. That stretch is very wide, so there was a lot of road to work with, and they were happy to do it." When asked about plans to add more bike lanes in the future, Russell says that it’s a distinct possibility. "We may look at a couple of other areas to add lanes when DOT schedules their resurfacing or any of their new painting. They said they would be happy to work with us."
Russell says that the City is working on different initiatives with regard to connectivity, whether it’s cycling, walking, or just better transportation options in town. "We have put up some cyclist awareness signs as part of a comprehensive improvement package."
Local cyclist Betsy Hester says the biggest attraction for cycling here is the river. "My three favorite rides are from the waterfront to Dinah’s Landing, and Goose Creek State Park, and the big loop to Bath and back, where we get to enjoy the river on both ends. So, certainly what makes cycling in Washington so special is the scenery."
Washington is the perfect place to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re looking for a fast ride to get your heart rate up, a long route to see the countryside, or a leisurely trek around town on a cruiser, cycling here is an excellent way to get around and explore.
Inner Banks Outfitters, located at 1050 E. Main Street, specializes in sales, rentals, and repairs of bikes, kayaks, and SUP boards.
To rent or for more information, call Liane at 252-975-3006 or go to https://www.innerbanksoutfitters.com/.