Hundreds of thousands of Californians are taking part in the annual Bike to Work Day on Thursday, authorities said.

To encourage people to bike to work, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and several other municipal transit agencies offer free bus and rail rides to bicyclists in Los Angeles and other cities.

Those pledging to bike to work can win various prizes, including a two-night stay for two at the Red Mountain Resort & Spa in St. George, Utah, according to the MTA.

Bicyclists in L.A. also got free goodies and refreshments at several "Pit Stops" set up for the event.

In Sacramento, regional parks helped morning commuters leave their four-wheel rides behind by offering free parking and breakfast treats in honor of Bike to Work Day.

These parks were also helping morning commuters who were trading in cars for pedal power with four energizer stations stocked with coffee, juice and bagels.

Parking fees were waived at some entertainment and recreation areas across the state.

On July 26, 2006, both chambers of Congress passed a resolution to emphasize the health and environmental benefits of this mode of transportation by recognizing May as National Bike Month.