Gravel Riding for Cyclists Offers Unique Experience
For bicyclists, it is the road less traveled: getting off paved roads and onto the network of trails, including those on Greenbelt properties, that run through Essex County.
These cyclists call it “Gravel Riding,” and since 2018, it’s been part of the annual TourdeGreenbelt.
“I think we're always finding those trails and hidden areas, and connecting them is really fun for me,” said gravel rider and Greenbelt volunteer Noah Leavitt. “I like digging out the map and seeing what new courses I can plot.”
The terrain ranges from ruts, to clamshells, and to smooth hard-packed rail trails.
“We have some beautiful quiet roads around the area, but I think that exploration is really what drives me to gravel riding,” said Leavitt.
TourdeGreenbelt offers two courses for gravel riders: A longer adventure route through Greenbelt properties for experienced riders looking to test their skills on a variety of terrain.
There is also a shorter route for less experienced riders, or those who want to take it easy while enjoying the scenery. It seemed natural to add it to the annual cycling event.
“Greenbelt has all of these properties that are actually perfect for gravel riding,” said Leavitt. “It’s really an effective way to show off these properties.”
Gravel riding is a bit similar to mountain biking, but also different. It allows riders to get into the woods and away from the cars, but it's not quite as technical as mountain biking, and exacts less of a toll on your body.
“I think there are unique challenges that make it different from road cycling and I think that is what attracts a lot of people. It's not just pure fitness,” said Leavitt. “You can go at your own pace to find a smooth line through the terrain or choose the best way to cycle on hilly terrain.”
Leavitt is organizing a gravel ride “meet up” on May 4 at 9 a.m. for new or experienced riders on a Greenbelt property. Details can be found at ecga.org/events.
“We want it to be both fun and challenging. We want it to be accessible, but not too difficult,” said Leavitt.
The gravel ride will be part of TourdeGreenbelt once again on September 21 of this year.