Anatomy of a Biking Adventure

????♂? BIKING FRIENDS: This is a supplemental post from my O&W Trail ride specifically for you. I wanted to share some of the unique features of this trail that truly enhance the riding experience. For starters, there is excellent signage, including mileposts that replicate the original stone ones used by the railroads. The milepost in the upper left-hand corner, below, for example, tells me that Kingston, New York is 9 miles ahead. The opposite side of each post displays an “E” for the other terminus — Ellenville, New York. The combo bird house/trail markings provide housing for sparrows and other small birds. Then there are informative signs about railroad history and trail features as well as kiosks with brochures.

My favorite trail amenity (I think EVERY trail should have these) is a bike service station that features a tool kit and air pump. This particular one was installed as part of an Eagle Scout project. There is nothing worse than a flat tire or mechanical problem when you're in the middle of nowhere. A service station can be a lifesaver!

The most challenging section of trail is in Cottekill, where it meanders past the remnants of a 110-year old bridge/trestle — an approximately 150-foot elevation change. And finally, I find it comforting to see conservation measures in action — in this case, near the Hurley trailhead where the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) has created pollination zones between the paved trail and the highway. This is why I love the Rails to Trails program so much. I come away from the ride feeling more enlightened and with a sense that we can coexist responsibly with nature. Plus, I’m a railroad geek.

Again, props to the Rails to Trails Conservancy and their helpful TrailLink app. Just in time for this ride, I plunked down $30 for the offline/downloadable mapping feature which is invaluable on rides where there is no cell service. Happy cycling, y’all!