Tip of the month: walking and biking buses

Published on September 08, 2026

Walking and biking buses are an organized group of parents, caregivers, and students that walk or bike to school along a fixed route, surprised by adult volunteers. Similar to a transit, walking and biking buses include “stops” and times to pick up kids from to join the bus. Walking and biking buses are a great way to encourage active transportation and participation in your school community. 

See below for tips for organizing a walking or biking bus at your school!

• Plan and map out the designated route to school. The Menlo Park Safe Routes to School Program has Suggested Routes to School maps available at menlopark.gov/saferoutestoschool.
• Establish any meet-up points to pick up other students and add to your designated route to school.
• Advertise your walking bus or bike bus by utilizing any existing resources for parent communications (PTA’s newsletter, bulletin boards, etc.)
• Thank all volunteers and partners after the event and encourage people to walk or bike to school when possible.