GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. — New York State Parks are nearing 100 years. To celebrate the milestone, the parks are hosting a 'Pedal for the Parks' bike ride. The inaugural ride will kick off Sunday, September 22 starting at Beaver Island on Grand Island.
For the first time, the Grand Island Bridge will be closed down to traffic for the recreational bike ride.
Depending on the mileage chosen, bikers will travel from Beaver Island, cycle the West River Shoreline, through Buckhorn State Park, over the Grand Island Bridge, to Niagara Falls, Whirlpool, Devils Hole, and Ft. Niagara State Park. There will also be an after-party at Beaver Island State Park starting at 10 am. There will be some food and snacks along with music.
Online registration is open now until the start of the ride or until sold out. Mail-in registration is also available. There are multiple different routes offered with options for kids as well. The bike ride mileage choices are as follows:
- 62 mile ride (7am start)
- 34 mile ride (7:30am start)
- 16 mile ride (8:30am start)
- Children 10 and under riding (or being towed by a parent)
- 16 mile ride (8:30am start)
- Children 10 and under being towed by a parent
- 34 mile ride (8:30am start)
Multiple pit stops including water stations and bathrooms will be available along the routes.
For more information about Pedal for the Parks, visit the New York State Park's website link here. To learn more about NY State Park's 100th anniversary, check out their page here.
