I ride the portion of the Gwynns Falls Trail between Cherry Hill and downtown probably three times a week, not thinking much about safety for the simple reason that I rarely if ever see anyone else down there. Last night was a little different. Approaching the old BGE power station--the future site of the Westport development--a group of 10 to 15 teenagers (presumably) rushed me. I was able to swerve away for the most part but took a fist to the face and stayed, fortunately, on the bike.
According to the trail's web site, the city does provide extra security along the corridor: "The Baltimore City Police Department has assigned police officers to patrol the Trail which has experienced no serious incidents since beginning operation in 1999. This is clearly an example of 'a used trail being a safe trail.'" But nothing is perfect--I don't think I've ever seen a cop down there, actually--so it'd be best to keep in mind the trail isn't an extension of the Inner Harbor, and Wesport is Westport, trail or no. Some sections in the area are particularly isolated and remote.
Recently, similar attacks have been reported on the Jones Falls Trail and elsewhere. So, you know, watch your back.
