Bike the Presidential Rail Trail

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/d/0/8/event_271428392.jpeghttp://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/d/4/e/event_271428462.jpeg

Presidential Recreational Rail Trail - is a wondrous gravel grind that starts here in Gorham, and ends at the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge (http://www.nhdfl.org/events-tours-and-programs/visit-nh-biodiversity/pondicherry-images.aspx). It is 18 miles each way, though there are multiple parking areas along the way to make the ride as long or as short as you desire. You will pass by the old Madison Spring Water Company ruins as you come through the town of Randolph. Riding past the Northern Presidential Mountains you will cross multiple trail heads pointed towards the alpine zone as you parallel US Route 2. From Gorham, it is a gentle, but continuous grade that only a rail trail could offer. Just think of the nice gentle ride that you will have on the way home. This trail is generally a pretty fine crushed stone, but has a couple of short sections with chunkier gravel. It is ideal for bike path/comfort bikes, mountain bikes, and touring bikes with beefy tires. There aren't a lot of amenities (if any) along the way, so plan accordingly for snacks and water.

http://www.nhstateparks.org/explore/bureau-of-trails/presidential-recreational-trail.aspx

Lets meet at the parking area on Rt.2 in Gorham just past Jimtown Rd / Moose Brook State Park entrance. Some of us are camping at the Moose Brook State Park 8/16 to 8/18 which I will post as a separate meetup on 8/16, researching the camping arrangements at the moment.

We may bike the entire distance out & back which will make it a 36 mile trip but we will see how everyone feels about having a long ride.

Gear Requirements: Hybrid or Mountain bike, Helmet, spare tire. Please bring water, snack if you want, sun screen, sun glasses & bug spray you may need it.

***Bike Rental option - If you choose to rent - please make your own arrangements and be at the parking lot for 10am promptly so we can ride without delays - thanks so much

If you need to rent a Bike try - Web: http://www.porkygulch.com (http://www.porkygulch.com/)

Porky Gulch Bike Shop - 603-722-0709 at 212 Main Street, Gorham, NH 03551

http://www.nhgrand.com/what-to-do/featured-business/porky-gulch-bike-shop.aspx

Your safety and the safety of the group is the most important thing, so come prepared so you don’t put yourself or others at risk. Bring your own gear and know how to use it.

As a condition of attending this activity you agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the organizer(s) and all members of this group from any and all claims for property damage, injury, and/or death, including those caused by negligence and/or other reasons. You also agree to assume all risk associated with this activity and agree to know and follow the Hiker Responsibility Code described at www.hikesafe.com. The leader(s) of this activity are volunteers; and you release, hold harmless, and indemnify the leader(s) and all members of this group from any and all claims for property damage, injury, illness, disability, and/or death - including those caused by negligence and/or other reasons.