Spring marks the return of longtime favorite road bike tours and the opening of new trails.
ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (May 31, 2016) – Orange County is a playground for road cyclists and mountain bikers to explore this spring and summer. About seven miles of trails have been opened to mountain bikers in previously closed off acreage in Elks-Brox Memorial Park in Port Jervis near the watershed and reservoir. For those who prefer to stay on the roads, there are several tours on the calendar over the next few months.
“Orange County is a destination for every level of bicyclist,” said Orange County Tourism Director Susan Hawvermale. “From flat trails to wooded mountain paths, take in the spectacular Hudson Valley scenery no matter where your wheels take you.”
Upcoming road cycling and mountain biking events in Orange County include:
Answer to Cancer Bike, Saturday, June 25, 2016: Select from 25, 50, and 100 mile routes. Begins in the Village of Highland Falls, winds through the historic grounds of the United States Military Academy at West Point and features breathtaking vistas from Storm King Highway. Visit www.a2c.org to learn more and register.
Farm to Fork Fondo, Sunday, June 26, 2016: Challenging course through the black dirt farmland features timed segments, magnificent views, and farm stops with locally grown treats. Enjoy the post-ride festival at Pennings Farm in Warwick featuring an ice cream stand, pub & grill, and kids’ play area. Local and cycling industry vendors will be present throughout the day. Visit www.farmforkfondo.com to learn more and register.
Stewart SOS MTB Challenge, Sunday, July 31, 2016: This annual race in Stewart State Forest is part of the New York State Mountain Bike Series. Fast and flowing 9.5 mile course starts at the Ridge Rd. parking area. Great for all levels of mountain bikers. Visit www.nysmtbseries.com/races/ to learn more and register.
Tour de Goshen, Sunday, August 21: Featured in Sports Illustrated, this long-standing Hudson Valley ride offers fun for families and competitive riders alike. Choose from 62, 45, 25, and 11 mile courses. All riders receive a commemorative shirt, lunch following the ride, cool bike stuff, and lots of support on the route. Visit www.joefixits.com/bikes/bikes_tdg.html to learn more and register.
Country Roads Bicycle Tour With the Camels, Sunday, September 18, 2016: Begins at Warwick Town Park. Ride any one of four routes on uncrowded roads through the pristine Orange County landscape either individually following marked roads or as part of a group led by an experienced club member. All pre-registered adult riders receive a t-shirt. Also includes lunch with a live band. For more information, visit Orange County Bicycle Club’s website, www.ocbicycleclub.org/events.
Also visit Orange County Tourism’s new website: www.orangetourism.org.
About Orange County Tourism
Orange County Tourism, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, and events can be found at www.OrangeTourism.org. For a free copy of the Orange County Travel Guide, e-mail tourism@orangecountygov.com or call 845-615-3860.
