I would lie awake in bed wondering where that freight train was going and where it had been. Most are wheelchair accessible. There is no lack of potential rail-trails. In 1916, the United States boasted the largest rail system in the world. Today, about 150,000 miles of those lines have been abandoned or are inactive.
New projects are under way across the country, and each month more trails open to the public.
You and your family can help build this nationwide network of trails, too. Write a letter to your city, county or state elected official in favor of funding rail-trails. Or, write to your local newspaper praising a trail you've enjoyed. Volunteer to plant flowers or trees along a local rail-trail. Lead family and friends on a hike along an abandoned corridor to promote awareness.