Rail Trails and Country Roads

The Harlem Valley Rail Trail
Photo: Sharon Behnke

When: July 26-27 (depart Saturday morning, return Sunday night)
Trip No.: HVRW
Price: $175
Early bird price: $160
Deposit: $100
Transportation: Metro-North Railroad and self-contained
Lodging: budget lodge (semi-private rooms & communal bath)
Trip rating: A/B
Mileage: flat-to-hilly, 100 to 170 miles in 2 days
Leaders: Jim Zisfein and Cesar Vasquez

This self-contained 2-day trip features an escorted ride, a hike, a swim, and admission to one of New York's best bicycling events. Saturday morning we take the train from NYC to Wingdale for an escorted bicycle ride on the acclaimed Harlem Valley Rail Trail and low-traffic country roads. Saturday afternoon's activities include a hike to beautiful Bash Bish Falls, an optional ride up a steep mountain road to a spectacular vantage point, a visit to a museum of the industrial history of the region, and a refreshing swim in a lake formed from an abandoned iron ore mine. Dinner is served at the historic Taconic Wayside Inn. On Sunday we join Bike New York's Harlem Valley Rail Ride, a hugely popular and fully supported event with 30-100 mile options. Then it's a short spin back to the railroad station for the train home.

Click here for registration information on Harlem Valley Rail Weekend and other 5BBC weekend trips.