Final ride of 2011 is this Sunday December 11, 2011 from Freeport to Butler starting at 1:30 PM

We will be riding the Freeport to Butler trail. We will meet at the larger parking area in Freeport and start riding at 1:30 PM but if the lot is full you can park at the smaller lot and ride up to the main parking area.

Make sure you have water and any snack you might want to bring along for the ride as well as your helmet. With the cold temperatures make sure you wear plenty of layers, some kind of hat or head covering and gloves. We will be heading out toward Butler and expect the ride to last approximately 2 to 3 hours. You have the option to turn around at any time if you cannot or do not wish to ride that long - just let me know so that I will not be looking for you at the end of the ride.

To get there from Oakmont or the Mills area, travel north on Route 28 until the you get to the PA 356 exit (exit 17). You will circle around to your right and at the stop sign turn left (you will be heading towards Freeport) and continue approximately 1.2 miles until you come to a Y intersection. At that intersection keep to your left and continue to the stop sign. Turn sharp left at the stop sign and you will be on Old Pike Road. Soon after turning onto Old Pike Road (approximately 200 ft) you will come to a fork in the road and you will take the road to the right which becomes Main St. Head down Main Street approximately .2 miles (1000 ft) and turn right onto Old Mill Rd. Travel approximately 300 feet to the parking area on your left just past the trail crossing.

Fall foliage trip is Saturday, October 15, 2011

If you haven’t noticed Fall has arrived in Western PA.  Last weekends ride on the Ghost Town Trail was beautiful. The leaves are magnificent and the temperatures are cooling down (except for the last weekend).

 

This Saturday, October 15 is our annual Fall Foliage Ride along the Great Allegheny Passage beginning at the trail parking area at the train depot in Meyersdale, PA. In years past we have started at Meyersdale, PA and ended at Cumberland, MD but this year we are going to try something different. We will begin riding at 10 AM at Meyersdale, PA heading up to the Continental Divide and then down to Frostburg, MD and then return for a total distance of 32 miles. This is an area of the GAP with a large change in elevation – approximately 400 feet upward then approximately 400 feet downward. While that may seem like a lot don’t forget that this is along former railroad track beds so if they can do it you should be able too as well. Don’t forget a light as we will be traversing the 3000 foot long Big Savage tunnel.

 

Be sure to bring plenty of water and/or sports drink as there are limited facilities between Meyersdale and Frostburg. If you don’t feel like packing a lunch, both Meyersdale, PA and Frostburg, MD are nice towns with plenty of choices for food. Just be aware that in Frostburg you have to do some hill climbing if you want to head into town to eat. There is a small café near the Western Maryland Railroad turntable very close to the trail.

 

It will take approximately 2 hours to get to Meyersdale from Pittsburgh so allow plenty of time so you will be in Meyersdale and ready to go by 10 AM. Please note the departure time is 10 AM – a different time was posted on the blog earlier.

 

Basic directions from the PA Turnpike

1. Take Somerset Exit #110.
2. Proceed through 3 traffic lights and at the 4th, turn LEFT onto E Main Street.
3. At the next light, bear RIGHT onto Berlin Plank Road (becomes Rt 219 S).
4. Go 3 miles then turn RIGHT onto Garrett Shortcut Road.
5. Continue 8 miles to a stop sign and turn LEFT onto Rt 653.
6. Proceed slowly through Garrett and turn RIGHT onto Rt 219 S.
7. Go on Rt 219S about 2 miles, then turn RIGHT onto Business Rt 219.
8. Once in town, turn LEFT onto Main Street by the fire station.
9. Proceed 4 blocks up the hill, and across the tracks you will see the train station on your left.

Please consult your map or GPS before heading out.

 

The weather is looking a bit rainy towards the end of this week but should clear up by Saturday. The forecast is for cool temperatures so remember to wear layers. You will be surprised how fast you will heat up during the ride. Don’t forget to bring your camera (or camera phone)!

Ghost Town Trail on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 10 AM

Our next ride is the Ghost Town Trail on Saturday, Oct. 8th beginning at 10 AM. We will be riding from Dilltown to Nanty Glow and back. This is an interesting ride and the weather is looking great. We rode a different section of this trail on August 20 and everyone had a good time. The ride will be approximately 12 miles long each way and should take around 4 to 6 hours. You are free to ride longer or shorter distances if you choose. Meet at 10 AM in the parking area in Dilltown, PA next to PA-403N and don’t forget to bring water and something for snacks.

Important DETOUR information due to PA 403N bridge closing near Dilltown.

If you are traveling on US 22 continue past 403 until you get to PA 2013 (approximately 2 miles). Head North on PA 2013 until you get to River Road (approximately 1 mile) then turn left onto River Road and head West approximately 2 miles until you get to PA 403. At PA 403 turn left and head south to the Ghost Town Trail parking area (approximately 500 feet). There may be other posted detours so use your best judgment.

The estimated travel time is 1.5 hours from the east side of Pittsburgh so please consult a map or your GPS device before heading out so you won’t be late. I will wait until approximately 10:20 AM just in case you get delayed.

No Montour trail ride on Saturday, September 10, 2011

Due to the possibility of poor weather and trail conditions as well as some other issues, there will be no ride on the Montour Trail this Saturday, September 10, 2011. If possible we will reschedule this ride in the near future.

Great Allegheny Passage Ride from Cedar Creek Park to Connellsville on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 2 PM

This Sunday we will be riding the Great Allegheny Passage  from Cedar Creek Park in Belle Vernon to Connellsville and then back. We will meet at Cedar Creek Station which is on the north end of Cedar Creek Park in Belle Vernon, PA.

 

Follow I-70 to Route 51 North (which should be exit 46B) at Belle Vernon. Take the Route 51 North exit (marked Pittsburgh) and follow for .2 mile, then turn right into Cedar Creek Park. Since I have not visited this park I do not have exact directions to the Cedar Creek Station but basically once inside the park you want to head to the north end to Cedar Creek Station which is near the boat ramp and where they rent bicycles for the trail. Parking is available next to Cedar Creek Station and also near the boat ramps. Depending on where you live, I-70 to 51 North at Belle Vernon may not be the best route so plan your trip accordingly. It takes approximately 1 hour to reach Cedar Creek Park which is approximately 35 to 40 miles from Pittsburgh.

This is a section of the GAP that we don’t usually ride but like most of the GAP the grade is gentle and the surface is usually well packed limestone. There are some places along the way to get water and snacks but it is advisable to always carry enough water to stay well hydrated. The weather for Sunday is highs in the upper 70s and cloudy which should make for good cycling weather. The total round trip distance is approximately 44 miles but you can ride shorter or longer distances if you like. Consult the GAP web site trail maps sections 4 and 3 for more details on the route and trail amenities.

Ghost Town Trail ride on Saturday, August 20, 2011 starting at 2 PM

The Ghost Town Trail is so named because of the numerous towns along the old railroad line that disappeared when the mines closed. This trail is mostly in remote areas with a variety of things to see. There are areas where the impact of the abandon mines is evident but most of the trail is scenic. The trail goes through some remote areas so please bring plenty of water and any snacks you may want. The weather forecast for Saturday is looking good with a high around 80F and a UV index of 8 so be prepared. The ride is planed to go from Saylor Park in Black Lick to Dilltown and back which is a total distance of 26 miles. If you want to ride a shorter or longer distance please let Scott or Kent know before you deviate from the group ride.

 

Take US 22 west to US 119 (approximately 30 miles from the I-376 and US 22 junction). Head north on US 119 and proceed about 2.5 miles and turn right onto Main Street in Black Lick. Turn left onto Burrell Street. Parking is available across from the ball fields on Burrell Street in Saylor Park and the trailhead is visible at the end of the street. From the junction of I-376 and US 22 it should take approximately 1 hour to get to the parking area at Saylor Park in Black Lick, PA.

Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Sunday August 14 starting at 1 PM

Meet under the 31st bridge at 1 PM. We will be riding the Three Rivers Heritage Trail down toward the stadium. Those that are interested in a longer ride can cross the Ft. Duquesne bridge to The Point and then over to the South Side and back. If you want  shorter ride just continue down to the old jail and back for a round trip of approximately 10 miles.

 

Due to road construction on PA 28 getting to the parking area is a bit difficult from Oakmont and the Mills and the North Side. Please follow these basic directions to get to the parking area.

 

Allegheny Ave to Butler St

Butler St to Penn Ave

Right on 31 Street

Cross bridge, turn Left

Go to Stop sign, turn left onto River Ave

Cross bridge, turn left and park under bridge.

 

Don’t forget to bring some water and any snacks you may want during the ride. As always you are free to ride for as long or as short a distance as you want.

Bike for Cambodia 2011 results

Last Saturday 21 people braved a day that started out raining and gloomy to donate their time and money to purchase bicycles for children in Cambodia. As the day went on the weather improved and the only people that got wet were the children that waded in the fountain near the stadium.

 

We raised enough money to purchase 20 new bicycles. This is a real and tangible way that we as a small group can embrace the Riverside Community Church core values to Connect with others and to Contribute to the needs around us.

 

If you were not able to make the ride and would still like to contribute you can bring a check to church made out to SEAPC and note in the memo line Bike tor Cambodia 2011 or go to the SEAPC bikeathon web site and donate on line. Even with the generous donations we have received, there are still more children who need bicycles and there is a need for additional money for repairs.

 

Thank you so much for being part of Pedal The Way and Bike for Cambodia.

Bike for Cambodia, Saturday August 6, 2011 on the Three Rivers Heritage trail

Saturday, August 6, 2011we are doing our annual Bike for Cambodia charity ride. This year riding the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Meet under the 31st bridge at 10 AM. If you can please register at the SEAPC Bike for Cambodia web site where you can also make your donation or bring a check with you Saturday made payable to SEAPC.It takes around $55 to provide a bicycle to a child in Cambodia and it will make a big impact in their life.

 

Due to road construction on PA 28 getting to the parking area is a bit difficult. Please follow these basic directions to get to the parking area.

 

Allegheny Ave to Butler St

Butler St to Penn Ave

Right on 31 Street

Cross bridge, turn Left

Go to Stop sign, turn left onto River Ave

Cross bridge, turn left and park under bridge.

 

Don’t forget to bring some water and any snacks you may want during the ride. As always you are free to ride for as long or as short a distance as you want. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail continues all the way past The Point over to the Southside.

West Penn Trail, Sunday July 24, 2011 at 1 PM

This Sunday, July 24, 2011 we will be riding on the West Penn trail. Meet at Saltsburg playground parking area at 1 PM. We will be heading out from Saltsburg and taking the Dick Mayer section to the Conemaugh Dam and then heading back. This is not a typical rails to trails ride as there are some small hilly sections but it is a fun ride. Once leaving Saltsburg we will be in fairly remote areas so please bring plenty of water and any snack you may want. The weather right now looks to be warm and a bit humid so just be prepared.

CANCELLED Saturday July 16 - Samuel Justus and Allegheny River Trail ride

Due to circumstance beyond our control, the ride on Saturday, July 16 has been cancelled. We hope to reschedule it for another weekend.

Sunday, June 26, 2011 - The Panhandle Trail

This Sunday June 26, 2011 beginning at 1 PM we will be riding the Panhandle Trail. Both Scott, Charlene and I got to check it out last Saturday, although at different times, and it looks to be lots of good bicycling there.

 

The Panhandle trail is more open than Butler – Freeport so be prepared if it is sunny. We will meet at the Walkers Mill Road parking area and begin riding around 1 PM. To get there from Pittsburgh take I-376 south, take the exit to I-79 toward Washington, PA then take the first Carnegie exit. At the bottom of the exit turn right and head down the road approximately 1.5 miles until you will see a small sign for the Panhandle trail parking at Walkers Mill Rd. Turn left and go approximately .1 miles until you see the parking areas on the left and right hand side of the road.From the Fort Pitt tunnel it should take you about 15 minutes. From RCC in Oakmont allow about 40 minutes.

 

This trail has some areas with picnic tables and portable toilets along the way but as always bring plenty of water and any snacks you may want. Around the 14 mile mark the trail is reported to be rough so we will turn around before that area (Charlene and I rode to the 12 mile mark and the trail was still fine). You can get more details on what there is along the trail by following this link (will open a PDF trail millage chart). You can ride more or less miles just make sure the ride leader knows if you are going farther or shorter than the group

Freeport to Butler ride this Sunday, June 12 beginning at 1 PM

This weekends ride is Sunday, June 12 beginning at 1 PM. We will be riding the Freeport to Butler trail. We will meet at the larger parking area in Freeport but if the lot is full you can park at the smaller lot at the beginning of the trail.

 

Make sure you have water and any snack you might want to bring along for the ride as well as your helmet. We will be heading out toward Butler and expect the ride to last approximately 2 to 3 hours. You have the option to turn around at any time if you cannot or do not wish to ride that long - just let myself or Scott Sims know so that we will not be looking for you at the end of the ride.

 

To get there from Oakmont or the Mills area, travel north on Route 28 until the you get to the PA 356 exit (exit 17). You will circle around to your right and at the stop sign turn left (you will be heading towards Freeport) and continue approximately 1.2 miles until you come to a Y intersection. At that intersection keep to your left and continue to the stop sign. Turn sharp left at the stop sign and you will be on Old Pike Road. Soon after turning onto Old Pike Road (approximately 200 ft) you will come to a fork in the road and you will take the road to the right which becomes Main St. Head down Main Street approximately .2 miles (1000 ft) and turn right onto Old Mill Rd. Travel approximately 300 feet to the parking area on your left just past the trail crossing.

Great Allegheny Passage Ride from Confluence to Rockwood on Saturday, June 4 at 10 AM

This weekends ride is Saturday, June 4th along the Great Allegheny Passage from Confluence to Rockwood and then back. The total round trip is 38 miles and the grade is uphill to Rockwood and then downhill back to Confluence. The elevation of Confluence is 1336 feet and Rockwood is at 1800 feet. You do not have to go the entire way but if you decide to turn around before Rockwood just let one of the leaders know.

 

We will meet at the trail parking area in Confluence, PA just off River Road from PA-281 N/Mae West Rd. We will begin our ride from Confluence to Rockwood at 10 AM. One of the interesting area’s of the trail is the now closed Pinkerton tunnel.We will also be riding along the Youghiogheny and Casselman Rivers.

 

It takes approximately 2 hours to get from Pittsburgh to Confluence so plan your travel accordingly.

 

There is not much between Confluence and Rockwood so please bring plenty of water as well as some snacks or energy bars.There is a bicycle shop next to the trail in Rockwood but you have to travel a bit off the trail if you want to get anything to eat besides the limited snacks and drinks available at the bicycle shop.Much of the trail is shady but sunscreen is advisable.

Great Allegheny Passage Ride from Connellsville to Ohiopyle on Saturday, April 30 at 10 AM

We will meet at the Connellsville parking area off route 119 near the river and begin riding at 10 AM. It takes approximately 1 to 1.25 hours to get to Connellsville from the east side of Pittsburgh. The ride to Connellsville to Ohiopyle and back is approximately 34 miles so it should take us about 4 to 6 hours. You are free to ride for longer or shorter distances but let Scott or Kent know if you are not going the scheduled distance.

From The PA Turnpike:
1. Take the New Stanton Exit #75.
2. Merge onto Rt 119 S.
3. In Connellsville, turn LEFT at the Rt 201 traffic light onto Crawford Street.
4. Turn LEFT onto Third Street.
5. Please use the larger lot at the end of the street, on the east side of the RT 119 bridge.

See you there.

Important Ride Update! Changes in date and location for this weekend's (April 16–17) ride.

Due to the impending bad weather on Saturday, April 16 the Sandy Creek ride has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 14. Since the weather for Sunday, April 17 is looking good we have added a Boston to West Newton ride beginning at 1:30 PM. Meet near the big tree  in the parking lot in Boston, PA. Also note that the Montour trail ride for Sunday, May 15h has been cancelled.The ride calendar has been updated so make sure to make note of the changes.

Updated 2011 Schedule Update - next group meeting April 2nd

The 2011 schedule has been updated. Please take a few minutes to review it as there were some corrections and deletions. On Saturday, April 2, 2011 beginning at 4 PM we will be having a group meeting at Scott and Laurel's home. If you are planning on attending please contact me.

2011 schedule is now available

The schedule of our 2011 rides is now available on the right hand side of this blog. A couple of trips to pay attention to are the Boston PA to Washington DC ride from May 21 to 27, August 6th is our Bike for Cambodia charity ride and October 15th is the Fall Foliage ride. More details on all the rides will be coming later.

First group meeting of 2011

On Sunday, January 16th beginning around 3 PM we are going to have a pre-season meeting at my home in Edgewood borough. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided. This will be a time to discuss the upcoming cycling season as well as your likes and dislikes for the 2010 rides. Everyone is invited to attend even if you just want to check out the group.