Not So Urban Athletics: Biking Sandy Hook National Seashore

Last month we took our bikes down to the shore and took a tour of giant seaside mansions, quaint Victorian architecture, and spent a little time playing in the surf. This visit we are going to experience the more natural side of the New Jersey seaside as we take a ride to the Sandy Hook National Seashore, part of the expansive Gateway Recreation Area.

The plan...

We'll gather at the New Jersey Transit train station in Red Bank to begin our adventure. From here we cycle through the shore nabes of Red Bank, and tony Rumson and Middletown, home to some of the rich and famous including Jon Bon Jovi, John Stewart, and Bruce Springsteen. Pedal on we will, all the way to Sandy Hook. What will we find there? A 1,600 acre peninsula encompassing a seven-mile stretch of spectacular ocean and bay beaches, a cycling path that winds us through pristine holly forests and salt marshes, a defunct U.S army post--Fort Hancock, abandoned gun batteries to explore, and a decommissioned Nike missile installation.

After exploring Sandy Hook on our bikes we'll park our rides and spend some time on the sand shooting the breeze and enjoying the weather. The last part of our ride will bring us back to Red Bank to depart for home.

Map of the ride:
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43946558

The important stuff...

• By RSVPing for this event, you agree to the following waiver of liability https://bit.ly/3atj0C5

• This is going to be a casually-paced ride (12 - 14 mph) of about 35 miles. Most of the ride will take place on flat terrain and on quiet roads but there will be parts with some automobile congestion. You must be comfortable riding in a group and in traffic. Helmets are required.

• Leave your evening open as this event could take 5 hours or it could take 12 hours. Our time is limited only by the amount of fun the group is having.

• Dress for physical activity and possible time on the beach meaning bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunblock.

• Face coverings/masks will be required for any time we stop riding or can't adequately social distance. Do not forget to bring one!

• Make sure your bike is in good working order before the meetup -- bring a spare inner tube and a flat repair kit, and a lock to secure your cycle.

• Rain or similar un-favorable weather cancels the meetup.

• Check your email the evening before for last minute meetup updates as well as my mobile phone number which will be sent to those who RSVP.

How to get there...

Mass Transit

You can catch the 8:07 AM NJT train #7225 from New York Penn Station and you will arrive in Red Bank at 9:30 AM. Train fare is $16.25 each way. NOTE: NJT rules indicate that only two bicycles are allowed per train car so be sure to arrive at Penn Station early enough to make sure you will be among the first in line to board the train in case there are other cyclists traveling. We'll meet on the corner of Monmouth Street and Bridge Avenue right outside the train station.

By Car
Put the address 175 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ in your GPS to guide you. Parking at the station lots are free on the weekends. We'll meet on the corner of Monmouth Street and Bridge Avenue right outside the train station.