Cycling Without Family Pass Banned at Arlington National Cemetery

The solemn military cemetery outside the nation's capital is no place to go for a casual bike ride, the U.S. Army says.

Cycling will no longer be allowed at Arlington National Cemetery for anyone except families and their guests who are visiting loved ones' graves, the Army announced Monday.

"While we know that riders intend no disrespect, bicyclists traversing the cemetery grounds do impact funeral services and the experience that families expect and deserve as they visit their loved one’s grave," the Army said in a statement.

At least 27 funeral services are held every weekday at the cemetery where more than 400,000 active duty service members have been laid to rest.

Bike riders on the cemetery grounds, combined with drivers and pedestrians, pose a safety hazard, the Army said. Cycling was previously allowed on cemetery grounds, except on Meigs Drive, Sherman Drive and Schley Drive, the previous rules for visitors say.

Family members and guests still will be able to show their family pass to bike to and from the grave site.

The new rule goes into effect Oct. 26.