The Bicycle Adventure Club - Come Ride With Us!

Fall in the Mid-Hudson River Valley

September 19th to September 24th

Ride Director: Claire Robinson
Ride Co-Director: Jean Sifleet
Report by: Patrick Ward

"Five stars!" That's how some riders praised the "Fall in the Mid Hudson River Valley" trip at the farewell dinner.

Keys to its success were the timing of the trip, the variety of choices riders could make, and area's scenic and historic attractions.

A key job for any ride leader, a rider from Oregon said, was choosing the timing or season for the trip.  In this case, she said, the timing was perfect.  Temperatures were in the mid-70's, summer humidity was (mostly) gone, roads and restaurants were not crowded. 

She also loved seeing how green everything was, including tree-shaded, sun-dappled bike paths or country roads.

Riders could choose easy rides from the hotel on uncrowded bike paths.  One led to a spectacular, mile-long pedestrian/bike only bridge spanning the Hudson.

Hill climbers could tackle the "Gunk" mountain rides.  One rider said her 53-mile tour of the Ashokan Reservoir was remarkable for the beautiful scenery and absence of cars.

Excellent road surfaces were another highlight.  On the 30-mile Sojourner Truth tour, the consistently smooth pavement made the uphills easier and the downhills and cruising a pleasure.

History fans could visit a hilltop Vanderbilt estate, FDR's Hyde Park mansion, and Eleanor Roosevelt's own nearby home. The Culinary Institute of America was just down the road, all in a 38-mile ride.

The trip leaders arranged a free guided tour of New Paltz's historic center, built by 17th century Dutch and French Huguenot settlers and the enslaved people who worked alongside them.

Did you know that former slave and abolitionist leader Sojourner Truth spoke Dutch as her first language?

Another post-ride presentation by a water system engineer (and BAC member) showed how a system of reservoirs like the nearby Ashokan provide New York City with its excellent drinking water supply.

After two perfect riding days, rain was forecast for the remaining two.  It mostly didn't materialize and BAC riders continued to explore the many route choices or visit museums or historic sites.

As people headed home, all indications were that they were very glad they had come. 

-  submitted by Patrick Ward