5 Greenest Ways to Cross the Country

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Pondering how to travel?

Who needs the hassle of airport security lines when there are plenty of other more environmentally conscientious—and fun—ways to travel the U.S.?

Click through the gallery to learn about the greenest ways to travel

Photo: I Love Images/Getty Images

Trains

It’s quicker than the bus and more comfortable. It’s also a great green option if you can book a ticket on one of Amtrak’s many hybrid diesel-electric locomotives. And if you’re moving cross-country, or need to have your car when you get to your destination, Amtrak can ship it by freight train.

Photo: Christian Science Monitor/Getty

Bicycle

This option is not for the faint of heart—or those who don’t exercise regularly—but it can be done. I know someone who rode his bike from New York City to San Francisco and he had some amazing experiences and met some extraordinary people along the way. Fair warning: He also trained for many months before pedaling off into the sunset.

Photo: Future Publishing/Getty

Bus

Okay, it’s not the fastest and it’s certainly not the most glamorous. But you can relax and take in the scenery, or simply take a nap—whenever you want.

Photo: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Cars

Traveling by car may sound counterintuitive but it’s actually not when you recruit some friends to come along for the ride and drive a fuel-efficient car or a hybrid. So it’s the best of both worlds: You’ll still have the convenience of being able to stop anywhere, any time while also having a green conscience.

Photo: AFP/Getty

Motorcycle

As with the other type of “bike,” riding a motorcycle across the country requires you have a bit of a brave-heart spirit. But depending on the size of the motor, you’ll get an average of 50 miles to the gallon. Added bonus: You’ll join the pantheon of Easy Riders.

Photo: Future Publishing/Getty

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Lawrence Karol is a writer and editor who lives with his dog, Mike. He is a former Gourmet staffer and enjoys writing about design, food, travel and lots of other stuff. @WriteEditDream | Email Lawrence | TakePart.com