Schools are back in session, swimming pools and campgrounds are closing up for the end of the season and everyone is thinking about football.

As the weather starts to cool off in the weeks closing in on the beginning of autumn, we shouldn’t forget how wonderful riding can be now. Your local bike shops are more than likely caught up on their back log of repairs and have more time to make those small adjustments you’ve been meaning to get taken care of.

Often times in our busy lives, we separate activities by the seasons and overlook taking care of ourselves during this time of year. However, things will slow down and taking some time to get outside will do everyone some good. If you’re wondering where to go or what to do, let’s make some suggestions.

First up is Moraine because it offers both a paved trail and a mountain bike trail. The paved lake side trail has been a favorite for many people over the years.

The park offers several easy parking areas with trail access, so you can change it up with each visit and it’s all free! If you prefer the dirt trails, then venture out toward the Davis Marina and give the notorious Moraine mountain bike trail a try.

Be prepared … it’s not for the faint of heart or the family outing. It’s a serious technical trail, but something worth seeing when you get those skills sharpened up.

Then there’s Alameda Park, right here in the city. With access from 356 or from Mercer Street, it’s another easy park to get into.

In the recent months, a group of trail stewards have opened up most of their newly built trail system and it offers the local cyclist a lot to enjoy. We are not sure of the exact mileage now, but there’s enough trail to keep you smiling for an afternoon of riding.

Alameda is a great place to take the kids or friends and experience true dirt trails with switchbacks and berms. A few rock sections, but nothing too intimidating or difficult. If you stay near the pavilions, the trails are much tamer and perfect for the family.

The more experienced riders can stretch their ride out a little further and cross the road inside the park to ride some faster sections on the hill just above the Gazebo. A Pittsburgh-based racing series will be holding an event on these trails in October. Spectators are welcome, so stop out and see what racing is all about.

Our third suggestion is the Butler Freeport Community Trail. If the paved trails or the technical dirt trails aren’t your thing, then the Butler Freeport Community Trail offers that in between place.

With a cinder-based surface, the trail is an enjoyable cruise with lots of places to start and at this time of year it drains well, offering an alternative place to ride on those wet days.

Don’t hang those bikes up yet … how about making your next date night a ride? Ride the trails, stop for coffee afterwards or even make it dinner.

Friends from out of town are visiting family, rent some bikes and catch up while pedaling rather than over drinks. Most recently, we took our nieces to a one-mile charity run and afterwards we strapped on helmets and they had their first taste of real mountain biking at the ages of 6 and 9.

Without any complaining, they both rode nine miles in the woods and even had to push a few of the hills. Having places so close with easy access makes it convenient to introduce kids and friends to riding without overdoing it.

Soon enough, the weather changes and darkness comes early and it’s too late once that happens, so get yourself and the family out for that ride.

Travis and Julie Saeler are cycling columnists for the Butler Eagle