Bike the Parker River Wildlife Refuge and Out to Plum Island!

Let's ride through the scenic Parker River Wildlife Refuge, then over to the beach at Plum Island Point. Our ride begins at Refuge Headquarters, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, From there, we'll ride over the Plum Island Bridge to Refuge Road. Entrance is now free for cyclists! We'll meander down to parking lot #5 and the entrance to the Hellcat Boardwalk Trail, a 1.4 mile loop trail through the marsh and sand dunes. Here we can lock up our bikes and stretch our legs while we walk over to the observation tower to enjoy the view. Be sure to bring a bike lock! This will also be an opportunity for a bathroom break. After climbing the observation tower, we'll ride back to parking lot #1 for one last bathroom break (and perhaps a quick walk out to the beach).

Note: Beach access is available via the boardwalk at the far end of the parking lot. Be sure to respect any restricted areas that are marked by signs.

From the parking lot, we'll double back to Plum Island Turnpike and then proceed to the beach at Plum Island Point, taking our usual scenic route. Riding down Northern Boulevard, we'll first turn right at 55th Street and then turn left onto Reservation Terrace, which will take us along the dunes.

On our way back from the beach, we'll turn right onto 78th Street and bike along the Plum Island Basin, enjoying the pretty homes and cottages that line the basin.

When we get back to Plum Island Center, we can perhaps stop for ice cream at The Cottage Creamery.

Our round trip distance for this ride is approximately 16 miles.

IMPORTANT: Be sure your bike is in good working order! Tires should be in good shape and pumped up, gears should shift smoothly, and your brakes should be properly adjusted. If possible, pack a spare tube in case of a flat. A hand pump or CO2 inflator is also desirable, though not absolutely necessary, as many riders will already have these items.

AS A CONDITION OF ATTENDING THIS MEETUP, YOU AGREE TO: Hold harmless, and indemnify the organizers and their relations and heirs, and all members and participants of the Meetup group from any and all claims for injury, illness, death, and/or property damage including those caused by negligence, ignorance, inexperience and other reasons. You also agree to assume all mental, physical, financial, and/or other risk associated with this meetup. Kayaking, camping, hiking, bicycling, and such other activities pose inherent risks and dangers. Participation in these activities is voluntary and dependent upon your own personal judgment. As organizers, we make no claims regarding any expertise for this outing. This is not a guided tour.

Consuming alcohol before or during any of our rides is prohibited.