Ride Report: The Tunnel

Thanks for joining us on The Tunnel ride! It was excellent ride on a gorgeous fall day! All of the pace groups tackled very challenging routes – possibly our most challenging “Medium” and “Short” distance routes given the steep grades and total elevation gain. The payoff was beautiful riding along streams, across scenic ridges, and over peaceful wooded roads – including some exciting dirt descents. We traveled through Steep Rock Preserve, which is home to the (locally) famous tunnel and is always a highlight. Some of us gathered at Housatonic River Brewing after the ride for some food and drinks, which were much needed after the day’s exertions. A big thanks to everyone who joined us today! You’ll find Steve’s activity post on Strava here.

Some post-ride notes:

1) Great job to everyone who got out there and rode, whatever the distance! As we forewarned, today’s routes were especially challenging.

2) Next week’s ride will be a ‘normal’ GrNY ride, rather than an extra-challenging version. We hope to see you next week! You can RSVP for that ride via Strava, but be sure to read all of our ride guidelines first!

3) For first time GrNY riders: You picked a really tough day to get started with us! Our ‘regular’ rides are difficult, but these Tunnel routes were especially challenging. If you survived today, you should have an easier time on most of our other rides. And we’ll try to forewarn you if the routes are more challenging than usual. We hope you’ll join us again!

Photos from yesterday’s ride are below. The group photo is at the top of this post.

Entering the Steep Rock Tunnel

Great views from our route.

A short visit to the shores of Lake Waramaug gave us a temporary respite from all of the climbing.

Through the woods.

TWO upcoming gravel rides: Saturday Nov 8 & Nov 15

Join us while we’ve still got nice autumn weather! We’ll be riding this Saturday and the following Saturday (weather permitting for both). Beyond November 15, we’ll have to play it by ear given colder weather, holidays, etc.

As always, GrNY rides are free and open to all experienced cyclists. Just make sure you are 1) up for the distance and the climbing and 2) that you’ve read all of our ride guidelines carefully!

  • Saturday, Nov 8: THE TUNNEL (New Milford, CT)
    This route is a favorite for Kathy and Steve! You’ll travel to the famous tunnel in Steep Rock Preserve. Spectacular riding, lots of dirt, and challenging climbs from start to finish. We might even see some goats on the trails. We’ll hang out at Housatonic River Brewing after the ride! Their kitchen is now open and has all kinds of good stuff. RSVP at this link on Strava
  • Saturday, Nov 15: Wolves of Waccabuc (Katonah, NY) – Season Finale???
    Did you know there are wolves in Westchester? They are safely housed at the Wolf Conservation Center. We won’t be visiting any of the Ambassador Wolves during this bike ride, but we’re naming the route in their honor! The first part of this route is similar to our “Westchester Dirt” route from 3.5 months ago, but the second half contains a lot of new roads. Come ready to explore some new dirt and revisit some old favorites! RSVP at this link on Strava