CEDAR FALLS - Rising gas prices have forced many drivers to look for alternatives to taking their cars to work every morning. That is exactly what the Cedar Trails Partnership is banking on.

On Friday, the Cedar Trails Partnership, along with Europa Cycle and Ski, is holding the Cedar Valley's first annual Bike To Work Day. Commuters of all ages and workplaces are being encouraged to leave the keys at home and ride a bike to work for the entire week. Friday will mark the end of National Bike To Work Week.

Two locations will be serving free refreshments and healthy snacks from 7:30 to 8 a.m. for those who participate. In Waterloo, a tent will be set up at West Mullan and River Road. In Cedar Falls, the site will be at Pfeiffer Park.

Cyclists also can sign up at either site to win gift certificates and a free night stay at the Holiday Inn.

The idea to participate in the national event was modeled after the activities that take place in Des Moines during the week. After just a short month of planning, the Cedar Trails Partnership is encouraging as many people as possible to participate.

"We want to use this event to encourage the community to use the trails and also to encourage biking," said Redgie Blanco, co-chairman for Bike To Work Week.

Blanco and fellow co-chairwoman Anne Duncan want to see the emphasis of the week placed on increasing recreation through bike riding and becoming aware of the Cedar Valley trails.

Duncan said there are many benefits to riding a bike: It helps the environment by not polluting, it saves money, and it's healthy.

Cedar Falls schools also are encouraging students to ride their bikes to school through Bike To School Day on Thursday.

"There's no reason why people can't be a part of our trails. No matter the age, no matter the capability," Duncan said.

Plans already are in the works for the second annual Bike To Work Week to be held next spring with more events planned during the week in addition to the refreshment stations set up on the last day.

Cyclists who are unsure about the correct route to take can call Europa Cycle and Ski at 277-0734 for directions. Questions about what to bring and wear also can be directed there.

Volunteers still are needed at the two refreshment sites on May 18. Those interested can call Duncan at 277-2187 or Blanco at 215-9141.

More information on the Cedar Trails Partnership can be found at cedartrailspartnership.org.

Contact Molly Hottle at newsroom@wcfcourier.com.