The hills and valleys of Delaware County are some of the most beautiful in the world and one of the best ways to enjoy them is from the seat of a bicycle. With summer on the way it’s time for bikers of all levels to put on their helmets and hit the trails!
On May 3rd, Plattekill Mountain in Roxbury started the summer season by opening its mountain bike trails to the public. In 1995, Plattekill became one of the first ever lift-served mountain bike parks to open in the Northeast. They offer lift service every weekend to over 60 miles of mountain bike trails as well as having a full-service base lodge with retail shop, a full line of bike rentals, a repair shop, a cafeteria and an outdoor grill.
Plattekill has bike rentals and trails for bikers of all experience levels. Bikes can be rented Wednesday through Sunday, with discounted two-day rental packages. All bike rentals include needed safety equipment. Extra helmets, including full-face for downhill, chest protectors, knee and elbow pads, and neck braces can be rented on site.
If you are interested in a less intense experience check out the Catskill Scenic Trail. The scenic 19 miles of gentle grade is the perfect fit for families. Plattekill offers bike pick-up and delivery to the trailhead in Roxbury, as well as pick-up and shuttle service along the Catskill Scenic Trail. Child seats are also available for rent. Plattekill recommends advanced reservations to guarantee availability. To make a reservation, call (607) 326-3500.
Jeff Bump and Jim "Coz" Costolnick are opening a new canoe, kayak and bike rental service in downtown Hancock on Memorial Day Weekend, 2014. Paddle & Pedal Outdoors will be open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. They offer men’s, women’s and children’s Trex Hybrid Bikes for $57 per day and $45 for a half day with $10 off normal rates for children under 16.
Paddle & Pedal Outdoors has created bike-trail maps that cover all levels of riding. Enjoy a leisurely ride on the flat ground of a rail trail through the woods or an up-hill workout on paved roads that is sure to get you and your heart pumping. Biking the roads around the Cannonsville Reservoir is also very popular. The Cannonsville Reservoir and Delaware River can also be enjoyed by renting one of Paddle & Pedal Outdoors’ canoes or kayaks. To get more information or to make a reservation, e-mail paddleandpedal@hancock.net or call (607) 637-5678.
Outdoors is the place to be during the summer months in the Great Western Catskills. Get out into the bucolic beauty of Delaware County on a bicycle.
