Happy spring, New York City! ☀️
With warmer days just around the corner, getting outside in our favorite city feels more appealing than ever. And one thing to especially look forward to? Spring hikes—an opportunity to take in the incredible scenery near the city that winter’s chill has kept just out of reach.
If you’re tired of the usual hiking trails around our favorite city, there’s also something a little different. There’s a “secret” way to explore the Catskill Mountains that feels like stepping into an animated movie.
Rail Explorers offers a surreal journey through the wilderness on custom-built, pedal-powered rail bikes.
Operating on the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad—a line that once saw nearly 700,000 passengers at its peak in 1913—you’ll glide along vintage tracks that haven’t seen a commercial train in decades.
🚴🏻 What to Know: Rail Explorers
Located in the heart of the Catskills, Rail Explorers offers a truly surreal experience: riding along vintage railroad tracks on custom-built pedal-powered rail bikes. As you glide through dense forests and cross over the rushing Esopus Creek, you’ll travel a route that hasn’t seen trains in decades.
Even better, each rail bike is equipped with a quiet electric assist motor—so you can fully soak in the scenery without breaking a sweat. It’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, and one of the most unique ways to explore the natural beauty just beyond the city.
Opening day for the Catskills division is approaching fast on April 18th! For more information and to plan ahead, see their official booking page.
🏔️ Choose Your Catskill Journey
Whether you want a workout or a whimsical escape, there is a tour designed for every pace. Every rail bike is fitted with a quiet electric assist motor, ensuring you can soak in the views of the Esopus Creek without breaking a heavy sweat.
- The River Run (8 miles | 2 hours): The signature experience. Departing from the historic Phoenicia Depot, you’ll pedal east through dense forests and over the rushing creek. The turnaround point features Rail Explorers’ signature red Adirondack chairs—the perfect spot for a mid-ride snack.
- The Golden Hour Tour (2.5 hours): Watch the sun dip below the Catskill peaks. This evening version of the River Run lets you relax at the creekside turnaround and pedal back as the mountain twilight deepens.
- The Mt. Tremper Express (4 miles | 90 minutes): A “bite-sized” version of the route. This abbreviated trip includes a break at the Mt. Tremper Station sculpture park, making it ideal for those on a tighter schedule.
Getting There From NYC
Getting to the Phoenicia depot is a breeze, whether you want to drive or sit back and enjoy the views:
- By Train: Ride Amtrak or Metro-North to Poughkeepsie, then catch a 50-minute rideshare to the depot for a multi-modal transit adventure.
- By Car: A scenic 2.5-hour drive via I-87 N and Route 28; park directly at the Rail Explorers Depot at 70 Lower High St.
- By Bus: Take the Adirondack Trailways from Port Authority directly to Phoenicia for a stress-free, 3-hour ride followed by a short walk to the tracks.
