Rail Biking Tours Launch in Cattaraugus with Scenic Zoar Valley Views
Rail Biking Tours Launch in Cattaraugus with Scenic Zoar Valley Views
A new outdoor adventure rolls into Cattaraugus as rail biking tours offer scenic views, local history, and fun for all ages.
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! There’s a new way to explore nearby Zoar Valley, and it’s kicking off this weekend! On Saturday, May 9th, Revolution Rail Co., which transforms historic railroad tracks into rail-biking trails, is launching its sixth New York location in the village of Cattaraugus. The Cattaraugus Tour is a six-mile round-trip journey through beautiful Zoar Valley and is perfect for riders of all ages, even those who don’t know how to ride a bike!
Revolution Rail Co., which also has locations in Colorado, Maine, and New Jersey, is committed to repurposing historic railroads in scenic areas to introduce riders to unexplored parts of their region. Chief Marketing Officer Carlton Bonilla explained, “The idea for the Cattaraugus Tour took shape when area residents visited our Revolution Rail locations in the Adirondacks and Cape May, NJ and asked if we had a similar ride locally. From there, it became a true community-driven effort, led by the Cattaraugus County IDA in partnership with Cattaraugus County, the Town of New Albion, the Village of Cattaraugus, and many local people. Together, these organizations along with Revolution Rail committed the funding, time, and coordination needed to bring the project to life as part of a broader county-wide economic development initiative.”
Bonilla noted that Revolution Rail asks two questions before deciding to start an operation in a new location: How scenic is the run? Is the community behind the idea? “The answer to both these questions was a resounding yes for us,” Bonilla said. “We love the Cattaraugus community, feel lucky to be part of this revitalization and partner with the local businesses, like RocketCup.”
The Cattaraugus Tour is three miles out and three miles back and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Tours begin at RocketCup Coffee Company (18 N. Main St., Cattaraugus), where you check in before heading out as a group along the tracks. Bonilla explained, “The rail bikes travel comfortably spaced apart, giving everyone room to take in the scenery at their own pace - including sweeping views of Zoar Valley from nearly 300 feet above the valley floor.” Picnic tables and a picturesque lookout at the turn-around point provide a restorative pause for riders.
Bonilla continued, “While guides reposition the rail bikes for the return trip, a second guide shares the rich history of the railroad and the surrounding land. It’s one of those rare stories that surprises even longtime locals - the area has deep roots and unexpected connections to notable figures that most people have never heard.” Upon their return, riders will not only be refreshed by their time in nature but will also have a new appreciation for the history of the area!
Importantly, no rail biking experience is necessary, and prospective riders don’t even need traditional cycling experience, Bonilla emphasized. “Our rail bikes have four wheels, so all the balancing is taken care of for you,” he explained. “They’re also recumbent, meaning you’re seated in a relaxed, comfortable position throughout the ride. The bikes are easy to pedal, all along the rail grade, making the entire ride comfortable and fun.” He added that the tours are truly designed for everyone, as Revolution Rail has “welcomed riders as young as newborns - including infants in chest carriers and our five-point harness - all the way up to guests in their 90s.” Whether one is planning a day out as a couple, a family, or even as a solo adventurer, this is an ideal experience!
“We offer both two-seat and four-seat rail bikes,” Bonilla said, “and it’s very common for groups of three to book a four-seater for a little extra comfort and room. For larger groups, we can accommodate up to 30 riders per tour, and booking multiple bikes at once is something we do all the time.” To learn more and book a tour, visit https://www.revrail.com/cattaraugus-run.
The response to the new Cattaraugus Tour has been overwhelmingly positive, according to Bonilla. “What started as a two-week pop-up tour last fall quickly became four weeks after the first two sold out almost immediately - the entire month of October gone in just six hours,” he recalled. “That kind of demand told us everything we needed to know about how much this experience resonates with people.” He recognized the local community’s welcoming, supportive response and what a unique experience this is for a variety of occasions, including family outings, date days, bachelorette parties, company team-building events, and more.
Still not sure if this is the experience for you? “For anyone on the fence as we head into the warmer months, we’d simply say: it’s a memorable experience that’s equal parts adventure, scenery, and connection to nature and the history of this remarkable region,” Bonilla shared. “Come ride with us!”
Enjoy the fun at the official launch at RocketCup Coffee on Saturday, May 9th where there will be coffee, craft beers and cocktails, and live music from 2:00-5:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm.