By Betsy Natter
If you’re looking to get yourself or the whole family outdoors for some great biking experiences this summer, Montgomery County’s vast trail system is an ideal locale for safe and scenic views for bike riders of all ability levels. Both seasoned riders and those just beginning to venture out on two wheels can take advantage of a variety of programs and services offered throughout the county. From do-it-yourself workshops and rentals to group meetups, your family will be set for your next bike outing.
Bike Field Repair Workshop – Green Lane Park
Knight Road Red Trail Parking Area
Green Lane, PA 18054
(215) 234-4528
Do you know what to do in the event your bike breaks down on the trail or road? Learn how to get your bike back on the trail during this free workshop on Wed., July 19th at 6 pm in Green Lane Park. Join the skilled mechanics from Village Velo Bikes in Skippack who will teach basic flat tire repair and how to make minor mechanical adjustments to your bike. You can bring your own basic tool kit, but it is not required. Meet at the Knight Road Red Trail Parking Area. This program is recommended for ages 10 and older.
If you’d love to get out on the trails but don’t have a bike, no problem! Montgomery County in cooperation with Zagster has established several locations where residents can rent bicycles for use on the county’s extensive trail system. The bike rental service is easy to use via the Zagster app on any smartphone. Pay your rental fee, choose your bike, unlock and ride. When you’re finished, just return it to the nearest Zagster locking station. Bikes are available at Lower Perkiomen Valley Park, Norristown Farm Park and on the Pennypack Trail. The bike is a Cruiser style with an adjustable seat that fits most adults and has a basket as well as front and rear lights for safety. Annual membership is $30 or pay just $5 for a one-day pass. Trips under 2 hours are free and then $2 per hour up to $20 for the day.
Local Meet-ups and Groups
Are you more serious about biking and looking to join up with other biking enthusiast for longer and more challenging rides? Many groups plan and participate in fundraising rides and tours throughout the riding season. Check out Suburban Cyclists Unlimited for group opportunities or the meetup page sponsored by Bikesport, a bike retail shop located in Trappe. Both organizations can lead you to dozens of riding events and riding opportunities.
The Montgomery County Trail Network
Montgomery County offers its residents almost 60 miles of bike-friendly pathways in a network of interconnecting trails which connect parks, historic sites and waterways throughout the county. Dozens of trailhead entry points and parking areas make the trails accessible and user friendly. Trails include the Perkiomen, Schuylkill River, Pennypack, Chester Valley, Cross County and the Wissahickon. Click here for an interactive map of the county-wide trail network which provides links to many of the smaller trails and more detailed information on trail specifics.
The Route 202 Parkway Trail
For an inter-county experience try the 202 Parkway Trail which runs between Montgomeryville in Montgomery County and Doylestown in beautiful Bucks County. The nine-mile asphalt trail borders the 202 Parkway, but is completely off-road and safe for bikers. Several parking and entry points allow riders to adjust the length of their trip and the trail also links with the Doylestown trail system at Lower State Road and at Wells Road. The trail does have some hills, but is well graded. Click here for a map of the Parkway Trail.
Warminster Community Park
1100 Veterans Way, Warminster, PA 18974
(215) 443-5428
On a smaller scale, local community parks may just what your family needs for an easy ride. Warminster Community Park offers over 5 miles of paved trails winding through the park’s 240 acres. The trails are open from dawn to dusk and restroom facilities are available.
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