Campbell Bike Train
Who are we?
Campbell Elementary students and parents.
When do we ride?
Every Friday morning we meet at Glencarlyn Park Playground at 7:25 am.
Some students come early to play with friends.
We also ride on celebrated days like Bike/Walk/Roll to School day and the world-wide Car-Free day.
Bike to School day is Wednesday May 8, 2024!
What is the route?
We follow a trail beside Long Branch stream through the forest. The route is 0.8 miles with a few manageable inclines.
What do I need to join?
A bicycle without training wheels and a helmet. Weather appropriate clothes.
How do I get to the starting point?
Glencarlyn Park Playground is just off of the W&OD trail. Here are some suggested routes to safely bike to the start. If you would like help planning a safe route, please indicate that in the form below.
Can I drive to the starting point?
Yes, there is a parking lot near the playground, at the nearby dog park, and in nearby neighborhoods with trail access including Arlington Forest and Barcroft.
Are parents required to accompany their children?
Parents should accompany their children on their first ride. Parents of younger children should make sure their students can follow instructions and stay with the group safely. Families are encouraged to assess their students’ abilities and partner up with other families so that parents need not go on every ride. Many parents carry their children on family cargo bikes until their kids are comfortable enough to ride on their own.
Are there any dangerous spots on the route?
This is a very safe route with most of the way being a bike and walking trail. We ride through small parking lots that are typically empty at the time we ride. We also share a road to the Long Branch Nature Center. As we approach the school on Carlin Springs, a ride leader will block the entrance to the medical center while students transition to the sidewalk. All student riders should be prepared to listen to and follow the instructions of the ride leaders.
Logistics
- There are several bike racks at school available to lock bikes up.
- Students enter the school via door #1.
- Parents are responsible for planning for their students’ return trip home in the afternoon. Some students are comfortable biking home on their own. Families are encouraged to partner up with buddies for the return trip.
- We use a closed WhatsApp group to communicate, including decisions on inclement weather. Use the contact form below to join.
Benefits to students and the school
- Students who engage in physical activity before school are more prepared to engage in learning.
- Biking to school builds confidence and independence.
- Fewer cars at drop-off means there is less air pollution and danger effecting our kids.
- Less congestion at drop-off makes the experience better for bus and car drivers too.
- Parents who drive to work can avoid the congestion and delay of school drop-off.
