Things to Do: Rail Biking

Looking for a unique and fun way to get outside, see some cool sites and make memories with family and friends? You should really consider rail biking. For those unfamiliar with Rail Biking, this is probably going to be a bit different than what first comes to mind.

Many communities across the US (and world) have joined in the rails-to-trails movement by re-purposing abandoned railroad tracks. Typically this is done by removing the tracks and turning the remaining path into bike trails. Rail Biking is like that….but totally different!

I recently had a friend send me a video all about the new trend of “Rail Bikes” that are popping up across the US. After seeing the video I put the activity on the “must try” list.

Essentially “rail biking” involves a bike, or more of a pedal powered rail vehicle that runs on the actual railroad track. This is not a new concept, as rail workers really have been doing this dating back to the 1800’s. However, it is now an option available for recreation!

Where to go

Despite being relatively new to the US there are already a couple of companies that have operations in place.

Revolution Rail Co. currently operates along the Hudson River in North Creek, NY. This is just over 30 minutes from Lake George, a very popular vacation spot for people of all ages in the North East.

Rail Explorers has branched out and has 3 locations in Portsmouth, RI,  Phoenicia, NY (Catskills region) and Las Vegas, NV.

If the above locations are just too close to home for your taste:

FLEKKEFJORDBANEN is located in Flekkefjord, Norway. Their rail bike trip runs in and out of tunnels, alongside the Lundevatnet fjord and offers wonderful views along the water.

Our Experience

After doing some research I realized that folks living in North East actually have several options for locations to hit the rails. I already had a trip planned up to Rhode Island and Rail Explorers just so happens to have a location outside of Newport in the town of Portsmouth, RI. We were headed up to visit my brother-in-laws and this seemed to be the perfect opportunity to get everyone out for a little bit of fun.

While I was excited to give it a go, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. I knew we would be walking away with a story, but it was up in the air if that story would be about what a great time we had or how quirky and dorky the experience was.

Getting there

Due to there being limited seats for each tour, I booked our 4 seater bike a couple weeks in advance. You can either book double or a quad bike and they offer multiple tour times each day along 2 separate sections of track. I opted to go for the sunset cruise along the Southern Circuit, which turned out to be be perfect for us.

Upon arrival we parked with ease in their parking lot and then made our way to their “station” on the opposite side of the railroad tracks. We checked in and then had a bit of time to enjoy their outdoor set up as we waiting for the other riders to arrive.

After a quick safety orientation we were off! Each bike is staggered to give space between each party and the group is guided down the tracks, through crossings and along the water by a guide in the front and one in the back.

We ended up have a really fun experience. The views of the Narragansett bay were incredible and the turn around point provided a really cool environment to sit down and have the sandwich picnic we had brought with us as the crew worked to turn our bikes around.

The ride was about 6 miles and 2 hours with 30 minute break for picnic time/bike rotation.

Overall…Would recommend! This is great for all ages and abilities!

Tips

-Due to the fact that we did the sunset tour, by time we headed back it was pretty dang dark which made for some interesting moments. If you have abnormally poor vision in the dark or are uncomfortable in the dark I would recommend going at an earlier time slot.

-Bring sunscreen and bug spray

-Pick up a few sandwiches for a great picnic along the water mid ride

-Bring the goods for s’mores if you’re willing to tote/probably share. There are 2 fire pits along the ride. One at the station and one at the turn around point.

Have you been on a rail bike before or think you’ll give it a go? Tell us all about it in the comments below!