The Biking Blog

Riding the Ridge in 2020

Posted on by Romanski

This past weekend would have been the 14th consecutive Ride the Ridge bike tour, an annual charity event for the High Meadow School in Stone Ridge, NY, which has become one of the premier rides in the Hudson Valley.

reservoir

It draws hundreds of cyclists from all over the region and beyond; including a couple of my favorite cycling (and ski) buddies who drive up from NJ and Philadelphia every year to carbo-load on pierogies and beer, and crash on my couches the night before the ride.

Events this year threw a wrench into the works of many group rides this season, and RTR has been postponed to October 3rd. Normally, we would wake at sunrise to be in Stone Ridge for the 8am start of the 50 mile ride.

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Tagged: Biking, Hudson Valley7 Comments

They Reopened My Zone

Posted on by Harvey

Last year, after 30 years, we decided to choose a new house, in the same school district. For one thing, we wanted closets, and I admit it, central air. We looked around a lot, and considered many factors.

When we found a place we liked, it was in a busier area, but with close proximity to an extensive, inter-borough dirt and gravel trail network. While it certainly influenced our decision, we didn’t fully grasp the importance of the access we have to what I call “the zone.”

I know now that I underestimated my reliance on the zone. Until they closed it, for you know what. That woke me up.

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Tagged: Biking, Flatlands9 Comments

Nyack Beach State Park

Posted on by Brownski

Nyack Beach State Park was one of my earliest discoveries when I moved to Rockland County twenty years ago. It is situated on the western shore of the Hudson River, nestled between the water and steep wooded slopes and cliffs.

walking the dog at Nyack Beach State Park

To the south, in Upper Nyack, the river’s shore is lined with expensive homes with boathouses, some owned by celebrities, and a series of marinas. Rockland Lake State Park touches the northwest borders of Nyack Beach on top of the cliffs.

It’s not really a beach. There is a sandy part south of the parking area but you’re not supposed to swim there. And the park isn’t protected in any way. You’re on the northwest corner of the Tappan Zee and you have all the tidal currents and winds that are common to the area. Not a good place to swim.

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Tagged: Biking, Hudson Valley6 Comments