Cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts have something to look forward to. Coastal Living reports that the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy announced a new bike trail that will span the contiguous United States — and in even better news, the project is already underway. Called the Great American Rail-Trail, the new path will include 12 states and provide one continuous trail that's safe for cyclists, meaning it'll be free from road traffic and provide long stretches of smooth, uninterrupted biking nirvana.

Because the Great American Rail-Trail is incorporating existing infrastructure, the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy notes that it's about 50% done. Large trail systems, including the Hennepin Canal Parkway, the Casper Rail Trail, Capital Crescent Trail, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, and the Panhandle Trail are being connected to create the new 4,000-mile project. When completed, it will start in Washington, D.C., and finish in Washington state, a fitting course that'll also make its way through Ohio, Iowa, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.

"Separated from vehicle traffic, travelers will be able to truly enjoy, embrace, and experience those amber waves of grain and purple mountain majesties that make up the American landscape," the RTC website reads.

In total, the completed path will consist of 125 total rail-trails. The RTC expects that the route will serve more than 50 million people, not necessarily with cyclists hoping to ride the entire continent, but also for riders looking to use it for shorter bike trips and even incorporating portions of the trail into their daily commutes. There's no official word on when the project will be done, but that just means that anyone itching to get out on the open road has plenty of time to plan their cross-country road (bike) trip.