Keeping the Adirondacks
wild, no matter how you choose to define the word “wild,” is a topic of discussion
and controversy to all Adirondack lovers. One controversial topic is the use of
ATVs. To some, the use of ATVs poses no threats, usually the viewpoint of those
riding the vehicles. However, to many others, ATVs are disrupting the wildlife.
There are numerous ways to experience the Adirondacks in a friendlier manner,
and one unique way is to travel through the Park on two wheels, rather than
four.
Cycle Adirondacks is a
week-long bike ride through forests, lakes and rivers, with every amenity taken
care of. Hosted by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the aim of the ride is to
“enjoy the wildlife and breathtaking scenery of the Adirondacks from the seat
of a bike.” The organization hopes you will enjoy the region as much as they do
and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the region and wildlife,
along with having the time of your life and leaving with awesome memories.
Wildlife experts are present all week to explain what riders see as they go. The ride provides you with both breathtaking
views and educational lessons.
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| With each number representing a day, the 2016 route is looking to top the popular 2015 route. |
The new route for 2016
will definitely be emphasizing the “true” Adirondack experience. Although the
2015 route was a big hit among riders, the new route for 2016 is looking to top
the previous. This new route features riding more miles next to water and more
miles on back roads. A true Adirondack experience includes “winding
through forests and fields, offering views of the High Peaks and other
pinnacles, stopping in historic welcoming communities and showcasing the
natural wonders that makes this region unique.” The 2016 route emphasizes all
of these aspects, and the ride is a challenging and unique way to gain a real
Adirondack experience.
Does
the idea of riding a bike for seven days in a row terrify you? (It kind-of terrifies
me, if we’re being honest). Luckily, Cycle Adirondacks offers a week of
Adirondacks adventures for non-riders, which doesn’t involve pedaling 70 miles
a day. As a non-rider, you have a separate active adventure each day,
consisting of hiking, paddling, tours, or an outdoor-education session with a
naturalist. Traveler’s aren’t allowed to bring their own vehicles, however,
they travel from town to town in a designated event vehicle. And upon arrival
at the new town, travelers are able to meet up and compare adventures with the riders.
There are so many ways to enjoy the
Adirondacks recreationally. I’ve enjoyed the Adirondack’s myself through
renting a vacation house on the Fulton Chain Lakes. However, this vacation is
unique in that you get a tour of the Park as a whole. You get to travel and see
so many different aspects of the Adirondacks, while minimally disrupting the
wilderness and wildlife. The feedback from 2015 riders was outstandingly positive,
and 99 percent of the riders said that they would recommend this trip to
others. The Cycle Adirondacks 2016 dates are August 20th-27th. If you’re looking to visit the Adirondacks, you should definitely
consider this unique opportunity to explore.
Cycle Adirondacks seems to provide a cleaner and quieter way to explore the Adirondacks! My one concern is that the repeated circuit with heavy enough traffic could degrade the paths the bikers use. Of course, any damage would be significantly less than ATVs would cause. However, this type of wear could be damaging to the ecosystem as a whole, especially on areas near the water that could lead to soil erosion on the banks of waterways.
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