EA2EVL Fondo Returns October 3 to Support Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail
Sixth annual 42-mile charity ride connects East Aurora and Ellicottville while raising funds to expand the Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail
EAST AURORA - Cyclists from Western New York, Pennsylvania, and Canada will take to the roads on Saturday, October 3 for the sixth annual EA2EVL Fondo, a 42-mile charity ride benefiting the ongoing development of the Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail (ECRT).
The non-competitive ride kicks off at 10:00am at 42 North Brewing in East Aurora, traversing scenic Routes 240 and 242 before finishing with an after-party at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville featuring food, drinks, and live music. With registration capped at 400 riders, organizers urge riders to register now and secure their spot at www.ea2evlfondo.com.
Over the past five years, the ride has raised more than $192,000. Those proceeds funded the clearing and opening of trail sections in Orchard Park and West Falls. The 2026 ride proceeds will help resurface trail segments in Orchard Park, Glenwood, and Concord.
“The completed trail sections in Orchard Park, West Falls, and Springville are treasured community assets and serve as our models for success," said Mary Brummer, ECRT President. "Our goal with this year's EA2EVL ride is to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors while raising the funds to finish more sections of the trail. Eventually, all 27 miles will be completed for everyone to enjoy!”
This year’s EA2EVL Fondo is supported by lead sponsors National Fuel, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, 42 North Brewing, The Small Firm, Enchanted Mountains, and Excelsior Orthopaedics. Tom’s Pro Bikes provides on-course technical support for all riders. Learn more about ECRT at www.ecattrail.org.
About Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail, Inc.: Erie Cattaraugus Rail Trail, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves as trail manager for a 27-mile recreational trail on the Buffalo Pittsburgh Railroad rail line. In 2018, ECRT, Inc. and BPRR signed a long-term rail banking agreement to allow for trail use and improvements. In 2023, the first 1.5 miles of the trail were resurfaced and opened to the public in Orchard Park, starting at the historic Village Depot, connecting to the 2-mile natural surface section that is open between Jewett Holmwood and Ellicott Roads. Another 8 miles of natural surface trail is open in Concord, including the 1.7-mile Pop Warner section in Springville. ECRT, Inc. has over 6,500 friends and community supporters. Find more information at www.ecattrail.org.