trips - PA Pine Creek Pedal - TheBackpacker.com

Trip Info

Dates: 10/5 - 10/7/07
Trip Organizer: Ramblinrev
Location: Grand Canyon of PA Rail Trail

Number of Attendees: (view all)
2 yes
1 maybe

Description

<< This is a reschedule of a previous ride and work in progress. Please see the trip thread for the latest information. >>

This is a bicycle trip. The plan is to do the entire Pine Creek Rail-trail. Total length is 60+/- miles From Ansonia to Jersey Shore. Included is a stop in Cedar Run for ice cream, potentially a splash in the creek if the weather requires it and some good fellowship and fun. If we go north, (upstream) there is an ice cream place in Ansonia that is worth stopping at. If we go south, (downstream) we will end in Jersey Shore where there are no doubt places to quench a thirst and/or celebrate.

We will be starting 9:00 am or so to make sure we have a good full day to see the sights and still complete the ride before dinner time. Those who want to arrive Saturday night, there are campgrounds in two state parks as well as along the creek. Both areas require advance arrangements. The Creek sites require a free Forest Permit. The State Parks require a campsite registration and fee.

Please make sure your ride is in good mechanical shape as there are not a whole lot of bike shops along the route. Older kids should be able to handle this trip.

The route is an abandoned railbed. It hugs and crisscrosses Pine Creek through some very picturesque scenery. The southern end is more congested that the northern end but south to north is a net gain in elevation. There is no grade greater than 3% along any of the route. The surface is crushed limestone. It is a superb trail. From Blackwell to Ansonia is entirely through the Grand Canyon at Creek level. It is a lovely trip.

Suggested Equipment:

Helmet
Hydration Pack and/or water bottle(s)
Cycling gloves if needed/wanted
Lunch and snacks (can be in sag wagon)
Rain gear (if desired)

Any other personal riding preferences and equipment needs. While the use of a helmet is not required except as mandated by state law, I would resolutely encourage its use on this trip.

Suggestions:

* Please do not plan on wearing blue jeans. The seams on blue jeans are not recommended as they will chaff over the length of this trip.

* Sunscreen is recommended as much of the trip will be in the middle of the day. The rail trail is open to the sky and the sun can be quite intense.

* Dogs will NOT be permitted on this trip for the safety of the riders and others. While dogs are walked along the trail it can be difficult to safely control a dog while riding a bicycle in possibly congested conditions.

* Please remember that bicycles are considered vehicles in the state of Pennsylvania. The rules of the road apply. Also remember that the operation of a bicycle under the influence is punishable in the same manner as operation of a motor vehicle. In addition, operation of a bicycle under the influence can endanger yourself as well as as other riders and pedestrians.

Please feel free to contact me for further information or questions if needed.