Which type of bikeway is designated specifically for bicycles, separated from vehicle lanes?

Bicycle paths are specifically designed for the exclusive use of bicycles and are physically separated from vehicle lanes. This separation is crucial as it enhances both the safety and comfort of cyclists, allowing them to ride without the risk associated with motor vehicles. Bicycle paths can be found in various settings, including parks, urban areas, and along roadways, but they maintain a distinct separation from motor traffic.

In contrast, bicycle lanes are typically marked spaces within the roadway that are adjacent to vehicular traffic, offering less protection than dedicated bicycle paths. Wide outside lanes and shared roadways do not provide a distinct separation from vehicles and are often shared with cars, which can lead to potential hazards for cyclists. Thus, bicycle paths stand out as the ideal infrastructure for ensuring safe travel for cyclists away from vehicular traffic.