BOREAS RIVER VALLEY RUN

Our most exciting rail bike adventure is here—the Boreas River Valley Run. This 20-mile round trip is a physically demanding journey for those of us seeking both challenge and reward. We begin at our North Launch site with a comprehensive trip briefing before setting out on the historic National Lead freight line tracks.

We follow the Hudson River northward, taking in dramatic views before crossing the iconic trestle bridge at the confluence of the Hudson and Boreas Rivers. From here, the scenery grows wilder: we stop to explore the legendary John Burroughs Cave System, navigate mossy rock slides, and ride alongside the untamed Boreas River. The rapids surge into the thrilling Class IV whitewater stretch known as “The Straits.”

Our ride culminates at a peaceful picnic area, where we relax, dip our toes in the clear waters of the Boreas, and soak in the untouched Adirondack wilderness. The return trip offers a satisfying downhill descent, carrying us back to our launch point with the day’s adventure behind us.

Blending rugged exploration, natural beauty, and physical challenge, the Boreas River Valley Run is a one-of-a-kind journey. This tour is perfect for experienced riders, outdoor explorers, and groups looking for a demanding Adirondack rail bike adventure.

BOREAS RIVER VALLEY RUN

20 miles
Minimum age of 12 as this is a physically demanding experience.
Around 4 Hours
Double Rail Bike | $180
Quad Rail Bike | $320
Prices are per bike, not per person. One double rail bike will seat 2 people. One quad rail bike will seat up to 4 people.

FULL ITINERARY

We begin our tour after a thorough trip briefing, pedaling north on the old National Lead freight line tracks following the rapids of the Hudson and crossing the old trestle bridge at the confluence of the Hudson and Boreas Rivers. We stop to rest, explore and take it all in while enjoying our first view of the Boreas River.
The second leg of the tour continues up to Northwoods Club Road, where we navigate our bikes through a sizable rock slide and proceed to the outlet where Hot Water Pond Brook pours into the Boreas. We take a break while the more adventurous riders can hike up along the brook (approximately .2 miles) to John Burroughs Cave system.
It’s back to the bikes for our third pedal along the Boreas rapids! We encounter the John Burroughs Rapids, also known as “The Straits” and along the Upper Northwoods rapids. In springtime, this is considered the longest stretch of Class IV whitewater in the Adirondack Park. After the rapids, we proceed along the Stillwater section of the Boreas to our turnaround where all are invited to rest at our picnic area, dip your toes in the sparkling waters of the Boreas, explore, and take in the wonder.
Once all are rested and refreshed, it’s back on the rail bikes for a pleasant descent all the way back down-river to our original launch point.