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Rail Bike Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: June 18, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Rail biking is an innovative and exciting way to explore the great outdoors, combining the joy of cycling with the nostalgia and charm of historic - and often disused - railroad lines. Across the United States, there are several popular rail bike experiences that cater to adventure-seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. This article dives into some of the most sought-after rail biking adventures across the nation.

Rail Explorers in New York

The Catskills region of New York is known for its enchanting landscapes and historic charm. Rail Explorers provides an exhilarating way to experience this beauty with its Catskill Mountain RailBike Tour. Departing from the village of Phoenicia, this tour takes riders along the Esopus Creek and through serene forested areas.

The route features custom-built pedal-powered rail bikes that glide effortlessly along the railroad tracks. It's a family-friendly adventure that opens up stunning views of the Catskill Mountains and offers a unique glimpse into the region’s natural wonders. The experience here is enhanced by the rich history of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad, whose tracks the rail bikes follow.

Adirondack Rail Bike Adventures in Upstate New York

Another gem in New York's rail biking offerings is the Adirondack Rail Bike Adventures. Nestled within the sprawling wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains, this experience stands out for its scenic grandeur and peaceful surroundings. The rail bikes traverse past pristine lakes, charming streams, and dense woodlands that teem with wildlife.

Starting from Saranac Lake, the journey covers miles of breathtaking terrain, heartily rewarding the efforts of pedalers. It's a distinctive way to engage with the Adirondack’s natural beauty and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The region is well-known for its extraordinary landscapes and the rail bike is a novel way to see it all.

Cape May's Rail Bike on the Jersey Shore

On the East Coast, Cape May, New Jersey, offers a rail biking adventure that combines coastal charm with rich history. The Cape May Railbike tours invite you to pedal along historic tracks with ocean views and a gentle sea breeze. This particular adventure is perfect for families and groups, as the flat terrain makes for an easy ride.

Riders are treated to vistas of salt marshes, diverse birdlife, and the iconic Cape May Lighthouse. This excursion is an insightful and leisurely journey that offers both a relaxing ride and an opportunity to learn about the ecology and history of New Jersey’s coastlines.

Rail biking is quickly becoming a favored outdoor activity in the U.S., offering a harmonious blend of fitness, fun, and scenic exploration. Whether you’re gliding through the colorful forests of Vermont or pedaling along California’s stunning coastlines, these rail biking experiences invite you to enjoy the natural beauty and storied histories of the areas they traverse.

With an increasing number of locations providing rail biking adventures, there are ample opportunities for families, friends, and solo explorers to engage with rural and urban landscapes in innovative ways. Each trail not only offers unique scenery but also tells a story through the historic railroad routes that it covers, ensuring that every ride is filled with memories of the landscapes and histories that define these unique locations. Whether you are a rail biking enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there is a perfect rail biking route waiting for you across the United States.