Ride Calendar

FOR NEW YEAR'S: Special route from Upper Dublin High School to the Wegman's Food Court in Collegeville. Outbound via Blue Bell, East Norriton, and Eagleville, return via Oaks, Schuylkill River Trail, Norristown Farm Park, and Ambler. On the outbound, we have a quick rest stop for bathroom & snack at a Wawa in East Norriton at mile16. Indoor lunch stop at Wegman's is at mile 30. Most of the climbing is before the lunch stop. Total elevation gain is 2845 feet. The return includes a 5-mile stretch on the flat SRT. Elliot will lead the 14-15 group, and Linda will lead the 13-14. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic adventures by bike on most Fridays, throughout the year. Explore pretty, peaceful roads in suburban counties -- Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, etc. Starting points will vary, so that we can cycle through different regions. Please check the daily calendar for details of each Friday's route -- terrain, mileage, rest stops, etc. Cue sheets and on-line route map will be provided for each ride. Scheduled for virtually every Friday throughout the year. If weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a hike/walk (on foot). As long as we are enjoying outdoor physical exercise, and Mother Nature, in the company of friends, we'll have a memorable outing.

Yes, there is a Nancy Jane Lane. We will ride right past it. (Lightfoot Drive too). Winter ride with a few ups and downs to keep the circulation going. We will regroup. 2 quick stops for hot chocolate and marshmallows (food, H2O, potties). Multi club ride. Meet on the 202 side of Wilson Farm Park in the parking lot beside the BIG American flag.

Ride along the SRT to see the Mummer's Parade at the Kimmel Center. Warm snacks and beverages are available inside the Kimmel Center. Bring helmet, extra tube, helmet, water, layers of cloths for warmth, $ for snack. It might start to be dark on the return trip, please have front and rear lights for your bike. Ice and snow on the roads will cancel ride, but not cold

Every Saturday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Kimberton Wholefood store in Kimberton for an indoor coffee break, the ride 17.5 miles back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

First easy ride for January will be to the Outbound Station on the SRT in Conshohocken. Schuylkill River Trail all the way. Ride cancels only if it is raining or snowing one hour before the start or ice or snow on the roads.

Great roads with low traffic. We have a few routes that bring us out around or through Ridley Creek State Park. Average speed will be 16-17 mph, but note that these routes include over 4000' of climbing. Bring a snack for a brief mid-ride break. Consider the on-line routes approximate. Leave by 9:05 AM. Rain cancels.

Another "Hot Soup" ride for the day after New Year's. Pretty loop from UDHS in Ft. Washington to the Wegman's food court in Montgomeryville for hot soup and warm conversation. Outbound via North Wales, return via Warrington and Maple Glen. Quick Wawa stop if needed at mile 20 in North Wales. Lunch stop at Wegman's at mile 28. On the return, there is another Wawa at mile 41, if needed. Total climbing 2175 feet. Cue sheets will be provided. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain the advertised pace. We are looking forward to starting the New Year by riding with cycling pals on a sunny day!.

Every Sunday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Hennings Market in Harleysville for an indoor coffee break, then ride 17.5 mile back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Some hills, regroup as needed. Riders should be able to keep the average pace. Lunch stop at the general store. Bring something to drink and an on bike snack. Stuff falling from the sky or wet roads cancels.

Celebrate the New Year hiking with friends and leashed pets, working off our hangovers and discussing New Year's resolutions in the beautiful Wissahickon. Optional flat return to the start will be available, as is the opportunity to forget New Year's resolutions. Co-leaders available to support varying paces. Please wear appropriate footwear if icy conditions. PLEASE PARK AT THE UPPER PARKING LOT AND NOT THE LOT CLOSE TO VALLEY GREEN INN.

Come out and enjoy a leasurely bicycle ride thru Fairmont Park and or near suburbs. Especially appreciate for nvoice riders, new riders to the city and those new to group riding. Lots of tips on city cycling. Bring a helmet, tools to fix a flat tire (we will coach you on how to fix a flat if the occasion deflates, water, and a few dollars for a coffee stop.

A true C ride, which cheerfully waits to regroup. Usually 25-35 miles, usually with a lunch or snack stop. Meet at the Italian Fountain, near the parking garage sign.

FOR 1/3/16: New route from Bruno's to Horsham & Huntingdon Valley. Outbound via LaFayette Hill, Ft. Washington State Park, and Maple Glen. Brief rest stop at mile 21 at Starbucks in Huntingdon Valley. Return via Masons Mill/Pennypack, Ardsley, and North Hills.Total elevation gain is 1800 feet. Cycle through some pretty neighborhoods, as well as peaceful, wide -open green space in the Pennypack Trust area. GOOD NEWS: The earliest sunset of the year, which occurs before the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21), took place around Dec.13 - this is behind us by three weeks. Evening daylight will now gradually begin to get longer again. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic, 30-35-ish mile loop, usually through Montgomery County or Lower Bucks, with a brief rest stop. Unless otherwise stated, this winter afternoon ride will meet most Sundays at Bruno's Diner (finishing point for many of the Sunday morning Wissahickon hikes). We may on occasion meet at another location in Chestnut Hill. Even if you don't join the hike in the morning, you are welcome to cycle with us on this afternoon ride! We will stop to regroup if needed, but try as much as possible to maintain 13-15mph, due to short daylight. Plan is to return before 5:00pm. Please bring lights, just in case we return in the nick of time. Please ensure that your bike is ready before start time, so that we can leave promptly. Specific details will be posted for each Sunday's Route. Scheduled for EVERY Sunday throughout the winter (for the duration of the hiking season), weather permitting, EXCEPT Feb. 21. This ride will resume on Feb. 28. If winter weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a snow activity, e.g., cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. As long as we keep moving throughout the winter, we will maintain our base fitness level for the return of spring cycling in March.

This weekly ride covers 30-40 miles on low traffic roads. Strong headlights and taillights are required. Wear your brightest most garish clothes and come join the fun. Don't lose your conditioning just because its dark outside. Cheat the darkness and join us for excellent workouts. These rides tend to be on the hilly side, so please be prepared to ride at the listed pace. We regroup at the top of hills when necessary. This is a road ride. Only one speed is offered. Snow, ice, rain and wet or icy roads cancel. Cold weather does NOT cancel.

Join us today as we meander towards Peace Valley Park and back. Quick rest stop en route (around the 20 mile mark - bring a snack), and lunch option 1 mile from the finish. Expect mostly low trafficked roads, paved trails, rolling hills with a small climb or two and good company. Later start to give the day a bit of time to warm up. Will regroup as needed, but please be able to ride the posted pace.

Pretty, scenic loop from Norristown Farm Park, through Montgomery and Chester Counties. Outbound via Royersford and Parker Ford, return via Spring City and Phoenixville. The initial segment of this route is on the flat Perkiomen Creek Trail, and we finish on the flat Schuylkill River Trail. In the middle of the route, we get to explore some of the peaceful roads used on the old BCP Scenic Schuylkill Century. This area is lovely, with panoramic views. Rolling terrain with total elevation of 2802 feet -- nothing too severe. Most of the hills are in the first half of the route. Please click on the route map link below to view the route and the elevation profile. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain at least 13mph average, as advertised. Indoor rest stops for something hot: the Coventry Cafe south of Pottstown at mile 24 (with an alternative choice - a pizzeria), and on the return, Steel City Coffee at mile 44 in Phoenixville. SHORT-CUT OPTION: We will be passing the Betzwood Picnic Area of Valley Forge Park to use the restrooms, on both the outbound and return segments. If you would like to do a shorter distance, meeting the group at Betzwood will shave off ~10 miles from the total distance. If you plan to meet the group at Betzwood ~10:15am, please contact the Leader.

Assemble at 8:30. We willl leave at 8:40 SHARP! Latest forecast is for 44 degrees and only 4mph winds tomorrow morning. Ride through East Falls, Mount Airy, Chestnut Hill, Wyndmor, Fort Washington, Upper Dublin, Oreland, Whitemarsh, Ambler, and Manayunk. Many hills, but no killers. One quick comfort stop at mile 18 or so if needed, and long coffee stop in Manayunk at mile 40 or so. (It's all about the coffee.) Riders doing advertised pace (which is what our computers should read as "average" at the finish) will not be dropped. Partial cue sheet showing turns, but not milage. Please preregister. It saves time and improves substantially my ability to read your emergency information.

Every Saturday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Kimberton Wholefood store in Kimberton for an indoor coffee break, the ride 17.5 miles back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Second easy ride in January will got to Manayunk via the Cynwyd Heritage Tail and the Manayunk Trail Bridge. Stopping for coffee in Manayunk. Ride cancels only if it is raining or snowing one hour before start or ice or snow on the roads

Scenic Saturday morning loop from UDHS in Ft. Washington, to Hennings Market food court in Harleysville. Outbound via North Wales, Lansdale and Hatfield, return via Worcester and Blue Bell. We will cross the pretty Skippack Creek on our way to lunch. Brief rest stop for snack & bathroom at mile 16 in Lansdale, then lunch at Hennings at mile 28. Total elevation gain is 2236 feet. On the return, we climb Potshop Rd, but then, we go DOWNhill on Bean Rd. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain the advertised pace. Plan is to return before 2:30pm. (SCU's Banquet is tonight.) Weather forecast calls for mild temperatures. Cloudy, but low chance of rain during the day. Elliot will lead the 14-15 group, and Linda will lead the 13-14.

Great roads with low traffic. We have a few routes that bring us out around or through Ridley Creek State Park. Average speed will be 16-17 mph, but note that these routes include over 4000' of climbing. Bring a snack for a brief mid-ride break. Consider the on-line routes approximate. Leave by 9:05 AM. Rain cancels.

Note the later start time of 10:30. This should give the day a chance to warm up a bit. We will be tentatively riding out to Valley Forge/KOP with a stop for lunch. Wet roads or 50% chance of rain cancels the ride. Check for cancellation up to 8:30AM day of.

Every Sunday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Hennings Market in Harleysville for an indoor coffee break, then ride 17.5 mile back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Please join us on another beautiful hike in the Wissahickon. We'll be hiking mainly on trails with flat options. Hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Well-behaved, leashed canine friends are welcome. CoLeaders: Elaine Feld;man and Cathy Flynn

Come out and enjoy a leasurely bicycle ride thru Fairmont Park and or near suburbs. Especially appreciate for nvoice riders, new riders to the city and those new to group riding. Lots of tips on city cycling. Bring a helmet, tools to fix a flat tire (we will coach you on how to fix a flat if the occasion deflates, water, and a few dollars for a coffee stop.

A true C ride, which cheerfully waits to regroup. Usually 25-35 miles, usually with a lunch or snack stop. Meet at the Italian Fountain, near the parking garage sign.

The weather forecast is for to much rain resulting in wet and slippery trails on some sections - we will try again next week Ride the Pennypack trail to the Delaware River and back. We will meet at Masons Mill Park (Byberry and Masons Mill Rds in Upper Moreland) and ride the recently opened Pennypack trail to Lormer Park, then cut over to Pine Rd and ride the Philly section of the trail to the river. The Montco portion of the trail is gravel so, while this ride can be done on a road bike, it is better suited for a Hybrid or Mountain bike. There will be a brief Port-a-Potty stop at the river. Bring a snack and enough water for the entire ride as there are no services available on or near the trail. Rain or temps below 40 cancel. PLEASE RSVP

FOR 1/10/16: New route from Bruno's to Horsham & Huntingdon Valley. Outbound via LaFayette Hill, Ft. Washington State Park, and Maple Glen. Brief rest stop at mile 21 at Starbucks in Huntingdon Valley. Return via Masons Mill/Pennypack, Ardsley, and North Hills.Total elevation gain is 1800 feet. Cycle through some pretty neighborhoods, as well as peaceful, wide -open green space in the Pennypack Trust area. GOOD NEWS: The earliest sunset of the year, which occurs before the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21), took place around Dec.13 - this is behind us by four weeks. Evening daylight will now gradually begin to get longer again. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic, 30-35-ish mile loop, usually through Montgomery County or Lower Bucks, with a brief rest stop. Unless otherwise stated, this winter afternoon ride will meet most Sundays at Bruno's Diner (finishing point for many of the Sunday morning Wissahickon hikes). We may on occasion meet at another location in Chestnut Hill. Even if you don't join the hike in the morning, you are welcome to cycle with us on this afternoon ride! We will stop to regroup if needed, but try as much as possible to maintain 13-15mph, due to short daylight. Plan is to return before 5:00pm. Please bring lights, just in case we return in the nick of time. Please ensure that your bike is ready before start time, so that we can leave promptly. Specific details will be posted for each Sunday's Route. Scheduled for EVERY Sunday throughout the winter (for the duration of the hiking season), weather permitting, EXCEPT Feb. 21. This ride will resume on Feb. 28. If winter weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a snow activity, e.g., cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. As long as we keep moving throughout the winter, we will maintain our base fitness level for the return of spring cycling in March.

Join us as we ride west towards the Skippack/Evansburg area. As usual, expect low trafficked roads, rolling hills (no climbs) and good company. Quick rest stop on the way out (18 mile mark) and optional lunch stop about a mile from the finish. Long enough route to get some exercise, but short enough not to be out in the cold for too long. Will regroup as need, but please be able to maintain the posted pace.

This weekly ride covers 30-40 miles on low traffic roads. Strong headlights and taillights are required. Wear your brightest most garish clothes and come join the fun. Don't lose your conditioning just because its dark outside. Cheat the darkness and join us for excellent workouts. These rides tend to be on the hilly side, so please be prepared to ride at the listed pace. We regroup at the top of hills when necessary. This is a road ride. Only one speed is offered. Snow, ice, rain and wet or icy roads cancel. Cold weather does NOT cancel.

Rolling route to Souderton via scenic, pretty roads. Rest stop in Souderton at mile 28 -- choice of eateries: Wawa, pizzeria, coffee shop, etc. For a chilly day, the coffee shop in Souderton is a nice place to go inside and warm up with something hot & soothing to eat & drink. Elevation gain is 2150 ft. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain 13mph, as advertised. If a quick rest or bathroom break is needed before the lunch stop, there is a place at mile 17. On the return, if a quick rest or bathroom break is needed, there is a Wawa in North Wales at mile 40. SHORTER (36-mile) OPTION: The outbound and return segments of this route overlap on Plymouth Rd, between Lantern Lane and Township Line Rd, in Lower Gwynedd. If you would like to do a shorter ride, please consider parking your car at the Gwynedd Valley train station on Plymouth Rd, then meet our group on the corner of Plymouth and Township Line, where we will be turning. We should reach this turn (mile 9.7 on the 53-mile cue sheet) ~10:20. On the return, we will pass the Gwynedd Valley train station. This alternative will shave off ~17 miles. START/FINISH POINT: Flourtown Shopping Center on Bethlehem Pike is the plaza with McDonald's at the front, facing the Pike. There is a GIANT supermarket at the rear. We cyclists park in the rear of the lot, near GIANT. There is a Starbucks Coffee counter inside the GIANT, as well as indoor seating. There are also other nearby cafes on Bethlehem Pike, if riders would like to go elsewhere for a post-ride coffee - Leader's treat.

The third easy ride of January will go to IKEA, Plymouth Meeting, via the Cross County Tail from the SRT at Conshohocken. Bike trail all the way. Ride cancels only if raining or snowing one hour before start or ice or snow on the roads.

Every Saturday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Kimberton Wholefood store in Kimberton for an indoor coffee break, the ride 17.5 miles back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Pretty route from Upper Dublin High School (Ft. Washington) to charming Carversville in Bucks County. Outbound via Spring House, Warrington, & Doylestown. Return via Lahaska, Horsham, & Maple Glen. Rolling terrain with a few brisk climgs, but nothing too steep. Total elevation gain is 2366 feet. Quick rest stop (bathroom & energy bar break) at mile 16 at Doylestown Central Park, then a lunch stop at Carversville General Store at mile 27. On the return, there is an optional Wawa stop available, if needed, at mile 47. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain the advertised paces. Plan is to return by ~2:30pm. Short-cut option: If the weather turns wet while we are riding, we can shorten the route and go to Doylestown for lunch, instead. This option would be ~40 miles round-trip. 2 LEADERS, 2 PACES: Elliot will lead the 14-15 group, and Linda will lead the 13-14 group. WEATHER UPDATE will be posted Friday night or early Saturday morning, ~7:30am.

Pretty route from Upper Dublin High School (Ft. Washington) to charming Carversville in Bucks County. Outbound via Spring House, Warrington, & Doylestown. Return via Lahaska, Horsham, & Maple Glen. Rolling terrain with a few brisk climgs, but nothing too steep. Total elevation gain is 2366 feet. Quick rest stop (bathroom & energy bar break) at mile 16 at Doylestown Central Park, then a lunch stop at Carversville General Store at mile 27. On the return, there is an optional Wawa stop available, if needed, at mile 47. We will stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain the advertised paces. Plan is to return by ~2:30pm. Short-cut option: If the weather turns wet while we are riding, we can shorten the route and go to Doylestown for lunch, instead. This option would be ~40 miles round-trip. 2 LEADERS, 2 PACES: Elliot will lead the 14-15 group, and Linda will lead the 13-14 group. WEATHER UPDATE will be posted Friday night or early Saturday morning, ~7:30am.

Great roads with low traffic. We have a few routes that bring us out around or through Ridley Creek State Park. Average speed will be 16-17 mph, but note that these routes include over 4000' of climbing. Bring a snack for a brief mid-ride break. Consider the on-line routes approximate. Leave by 9:05 AM. Rain cancels.

A friendly ride that regroups as necessary. Today we'll do a relaxed ride to Ambler. Climbing will usually average around 2000'. Overall average speed should be around 14mph, and we'll maintain a speed of 14.5-16mph on flat terrain. Bring $ for a food stop at about the halfway point. No one will be dropped. Wet roads or a 50% chance of rain cancels ride. PLEASE CHECK POSTING FOR CANCELLATION, WHICH CAN OCCUR UP TO 2 HOURS BEFORE RIDE IS SCHEDULED TO DEPART. PLEASE NOTE THE LATER WINTER START TIME,

A friendly ride that regroups as necessary. Today we'll do a relaxed ride to Ambler. Climbing will usually average around 2000'. Overall average speed should be around 14mph, and we'll maintain a speed of 14.5-16mph on flat terrain. Bring $ for a food stop at about the halfway point. No one will be dropped. Wet roads or a 50% chance of rain cancels ride. PLEASE CHECK POSTING FOR CANCELLATION, WHICH CAN OCCUR UP TO 2 HOURS BEFORE RIDE IS SCHEDULED TO DEPART. PLEASE NOTE THE LATER WINTER START TIME,

Every Sunday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Hennings Market in Harleysville for an indoor coffee break, then ride 17.5 mile back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Let's explore some less-travelled trails above the Wissahickon Creek, and find some good paths to climb. Flat option via Forbidden Drive on the return. Well-behaved canine hikers are always welcome. Optional group lunch at a nearby eatery after the hike. From the meeting point, we'll walk down Willow Grove Ave to Cherokee St, entering Valley Green via a small trail next to the Springside School. Please strongly consider preregistration -- preregistering is not required, but it will save you writing time at the hike start, and ensures that your contact info is printed legibly for the Leaders. CO-LEADER WELCOME.

Meet at Appalachian Trail Worthington State Forest, Columbia, NJ (See link in description). The ride leaves at 10:00 am. Please join Helen and I for a hiking excursion to Sunfish Pond near Mt. Tammany on the New Jersey side of the Delaware Water Gap. We will be hiking on the Appalachian Trail on the way up and along the Dunnfield Creek on the way down. Sunfish Pond is a natural glacial pond that will provide beautiful scenery for a short lunch break at the midpoint. Total length of the hike will be 8 to 9 miles with about 1000 feet of elevation gain. While not particularly challenging, this is more than "a walk in the park" and is not recommended as a first hike. Please bring sturdy footwear as the trail can be rocky and we will be rock hopping across a small stream on the way down. Dressing in layers and a daypack with snacks/lunch and a water bottle are highly recommended. More info at: http://www.njhiking.com/best_hikes_in_nj_sunfish_pond/ Google maps link to trailhead: https://goo.gl/maps/6rkJLaaMREA2. Restrooms may or may not be available at the trailhead. (Sometimes the flush toilets are locked for the season, and sometimes the porta-potty is unuseable.) Carpooling to the trailhead is encouraged.

Ride to the Cynwyd Trail, and over the bridge to Manayunk! Safety and equipment instruction provided as needed. Helmet, tube for tire and water required. Snack stop along the way. We will regroup as needed. Precipitation, ice, and temps below freezing will cancel the ride so check the website in advance.

A true C ride, which cheerfully waits to regroup. Usually 25-35 miles, usually with a lunch or snack stop. Meet at the Italian Fountain, near the parking garage sign.

Ride the Pennypack trail to the Delaware River and back. We will meet at Masons Mill Park (Byberry and Masons Mill Rds in Upper Moreland) and ride the recently opened Pennypack trail to Lormer Park, then cut over to Pine Rd and ride the Philly section of the trail to the river. The Montco portion of the trail is gravel so, while this ride can be done on a road bike, it is better suited for a Hybrid or Mountain bike. There will be a brief Port-a-Potty stop at the river. Bring a snack and enough water for the entire ride as there are no services available on or near the trail. Rain or temps below 40 cancel.

FOR 1/17/16: New route from Bruno's to Horsham & Huntingdon Valley. Outbound via LaFayette Hill, Ft. Washington State Park, and Maple Glen. Brief rest stop at mile 21 at Starbucks in Huntingdon Valley. Return via Masons Mill/Pennypack, Ardsley, and North Hills.Total elevation gain is 1800 feet. Cycle through some pretty neighborhoods, as well as peaceful, wide -open green space in the Pennypack Trust area. GOOD NEWS: The earliest sunset of the year, which occurs before the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21), took place around Dec.13 - this is behind us by five weeks. Evening daylight will now gradually begin to get longer again. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic, 30-35-ish mile loop, usually through Montgomery County or Lower Bucks, with a brief rest stop. Unless otherwise stated, this winter afternoon ride will meet most Sundays at Bruno's Diner (finishing point for many of the Sunday morning Wissahickon hikes). We may on occasion meet at another location in Chestnut Hill. Even if you don't join the hike in the morning, you are welcome to cycle with us on this afternoon ride! We will stop to regroup if needed, but try as much as possible to maintain 13-15mph, due to short daylight. Plan is to return before 5:00pm. Please bring lights, just in case we return in the nick of time. Please ensure that your bike is ready before start time, so that we can leave promptly. Specific details will be posted for each Sunday's Route. Scheduled for EVERY Sunday throughout the winter (for the duration of the hiking season), weather permitting, EXCEPT Feb. 21. This ride will resume on Feb. 28. If winter weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a snow activity, e.g., cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. As long as we keep moving throughout the winter, we will maintain our base fitness level for the return of spring cycling in March.

This weekly ride covers 30-40 miles on low traffic roads. Strong headlights and taillights are required. Wear your brightest most garish clothes and come join the fun. Don't lose your conditioning just because its dark outside. Cheat the darkness and join us for excellent workouts. These rides tend to be on the hilly side, so please be prepared to ride at the listed pace. We regroup at the top of hills when necessary. This is a road ride. Only one speed is offered. Snow, ice, rain and wet or icy roads cancel. Cold weather does NOT cancel.

Scenic loop from the Hawk Watch point of Fort Washington State Park to Wegman's Market in Warrington, for something hot and hearty, surrounded by warm conversation and laughter, as we brace ourselves for a snowy weekend. Part of the outbound route will include the 202 Parkway bike path. Quick indoor rest break for bathroom and quick snack at mile 18.5 at Del Val College Market, then indoor lunch stop at Wegman's at mile 31. Rolling terrain with a few climbs, but nothing too steep -- total climbing 2700'. Stop to regroup as needed. No one dropped, but we will try to maintain 13mph, as advertised. SHORTER OPTION AVAILABLE: This route will pass Upper Dublin High School both coming and going -- door to door service. Starting and finishing at UDHS will shave off about 10 miles (40-mile version). If you'd like to pick up the ride from UDHS, we should be at this point ~10:15am. Please contact the Leader if you plan on joining us at 10:15 at UDHS. Plan to is to return before 3:00pm, to get home before the pre-snow rush. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: the Friday Frolic ride is scheduled for most Fridays throughout the year. Details for each Friday's ride (start/finish point, destination, mileage) will be posted for each week.

Every Saturday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Kimberton Wholefood store in Kimberton for an indoor coffee break, the ride 17.5 miles back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Fourth easy ride for January will go to Bridgeport on the Western side of the Schuylkill River, across from Norristown. Mostly on the SRT, except crossing the Schuylkill River at Conshohocken onto the West side of the river. Ride cancels only if it is raining or snowing one hour before start or ice or snow on the roads.

Great roads with low traffic. We have a few routes that bring us out around or through Ridley Creek State Park. Average speed will be 16-17 mph, but note that these routes include over 4000' of climbing. Bring a snack for a brief mid-ride break. Consider the on-line routes approximate. Leave by 9:05 AM. Rain cancels.

POSTPONED/RESCHEDULED for JAN. 30, due to the SNOWSTORM. BCP is pleased to announce its annual MEMBERS’ TRAVELOGUE MEETING. ALL members are warmly welcome to attend this social gathering -- a presentation by several club members about their cycling tours & trips. We'll share photos and memories of bike trips, from around the USA and far corners of the world. Light refreshments will be served. If you have photos & stories of bike journeys you’d like to share with your cycling pals, please contact Linda McGrane or Vince Calkins ASAP, preferably by Friday, Jan. 15. If you can assemble your photos on a CD/DVD or flash drive and submit them in advance, this would be ideal. VENUE: Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 West Willow Grove Ave, Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill), 19118. We'll be meeting in the Haber Room, on the first floor of Wissahickon Hall. Wissahickon Hall is the large, stately, gray stone building directly across from the Philadelphia Cricket Club and tennis courts. Parking: there is a free parking lot immediately adjacent to Wissahickon Hall. PUBLIC TRANSIT: Wissahickon Hall is 1-2 blocks from the St. Martin train station on Willow Grove Ave near Seminole St. REFRESHMENTS will be served. Meet & Greet with refreshments will begin at 6:00pm. Program begins at 6:45.. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: If you are available to volunteer to help with this event (for set-up or clean-up), please contact Linda ASAP. Thank you for volunteering! Thanks to Vince Calkins for organizing the technical presentations, and Mike Olszewski, for organizing the refreshments. If you are planning to join us at this event, please use the "Preregistration" link here to RSVP, so that we can plan the correct amount of refreshments. Hope to see you at the Travelogue!

Every Sunday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Hennings Market in Harleysville for an indoor coffee break, then ride 17.5 mile back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Please join us on another beautiful hike in the Wissahickon. We'll be hiking mainly on trails with flat options. Hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Well-behaved, leashed canine friends are welcome.

PATS ~ Philly Area Tandem Society ~ Announcement SINGLE BIKES ARE WELCOME!! The first PATS annual ride, potluck party and planning meeting will be SUNDAY, January 24th. The ride starts at 10:00. Ride is cancelled if below 32 degrees or if raining or snowing. but the party is 1:00-4:30 in Jenkintown, PA regardless. Please RSVP to Linda at We'll talk, eat and drink, share our cycling adventures, and plan the tandeming year ahead. We will also have the dates of the big Mid-Atlantic tandem event weekends and the other tandem club ride schedules. Please bring (or submit in advance*) any dates you know about, or dates on which you want to lead a ride, and we’ll add them to the PATS master calendar. We will also have some samples for sizing your new PATS jersey and other cycling clothing, and have updated information on the design of the BCP jersey. Fred and Renee Neibauer volunteered to host. Weather permitting, Fred and Renee will lead a ride from their house prior to the meeting. Watch for the ride update. The house is near the Jenkintown and Noble train stations. The group welcomes all tandem teams, tandem wanna-be’s and the tandem curious. PATS ride Coordinator Bob Doyle* (send Bob your ride dates); and Linda Freimark (RSVP to Linda and the address will be provided) Home: 215-876-0087 PLEASE RSVP AND INCLUDE YOUR POTLUCK DISH IF YOU HAVE ONE IN MIND

Please join Helen and I for a hiking excursion to Sunfish Pond near Mt. Tammany on the New Jersey side of the Delaware Water Gap. We will be hiking on the Appalachian Trail on the way up and along the Dunnfield Creek on the way down. Sunfish Pond is a natural glacial pond that will provide beautiful scenery for a short lunch break at the midpoint. Total length of the hike will be 8 to 9 miles with about 1000 feet of elevation gain. While not particularly challenging, this is more than "a walk in the park" and is not recommended as a first hike. Please bring sturdy footwear as the trail can be rocky and we will be rock hopping across a small stream on the way down. Dressing in layers and a daypack with snacks/lunch and a water bottle are highly recommended. More info at: http://www.njhiking.com/best_hikes_in_nj_sunfish_pond/ Google maps link to trailhead: https://goo.gl/maps/6rkJLaaMREA2. Restrooms may or may not be available at the trailhead. (Sometimes the flush toilets are locked for the season, and sometimes the porta-potty is unuseable.) Carpooling to the trailhead is encouraged.

OWLS (Older, Wiser, Longer, Slower) paced ride through Fairmont Park and beyond depending on the assembled group. Bring water, extra tube, layers to dress for the weather conditions, $ for mid-ride snack, helmet. No one will be dropped. There might me a hill or two, but walking will be allowed. We will assemble at the top of any hills. Bring sunny warm smiles. Ride will be cancelled for ice or snow on the roads, but not for cold.

A true C ride, which cheerfully waits to regroup. Usually 25-35 miles, usually with a lunch or snack stop. Meet at the Italian Fountain, near the parking garage sign.

For 1/24: Celebrate the snow by cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. Meet at Bruno's After XC skiing or snow-shoeing on Forbidden Drive, we can go for a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic, 30-35-ish mile loop, usually through Montgomery County or Lower Bucks, with a brief rest stop. Unless otherwise stated, this winter afternoon ride will meet most Sundays at Bruno's Diner (finishing point for many of the Sunday morning Wissahickon hikes). Instead of Bruno's, we may on occasion meet at another location in Chestnut Hill. We will stop to regroup if needed, but try as much as possible to maintain 13-15mph, due to short daylight. Plan is to return before 5:00pm. Please bring lights, just in case we return in the nick of time. Please ensure that your bike is ready before start time, so that we can leave promptly. Specific details will be posted for each Sunday's Route. Scheduled for EVERY Sunday throughout the winter (for the duration of the hiking season), weather permitting, EXCEPT Feb. 21. (Leader will be away cross-country skiing on 2/21). This ride will resume on Feb. 28. If winter weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a snow activity, e.g., cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. As long as we keep moving throughout the winter, we will maintain our base fitness level for the return of spring cycling in March.

This weekly ride covers 30-40 miles on low traffic roads. Strong headlights and taillights are required. Wear your brightest most garish clothes and come join the fun. Don't lose your conditioning just because its dark outside. Cheat the darkness and join us for excellent workouts. These rides tend to be on the hilly side, so please be prepared to ride at the listed pace. We regroup at the top of hills when necessary. This is a road ride. Only one speed is offered. Snow, ice, rain and wet or icy roads cancel. Cold weather does NOT cancel.

For 1/29: Due to residual ice on the shoulders of the roads, especially secondary roads used by cyclists, we'll do a walk/hike today. The travel lanes of the roads are still too narrow. (Perhaps by Saturday, the roads will be clearer.) Meet at Bruno's, then walk either on Forbidden Drive, or, pick up the Green Ribbon Trail. Generic Description: Enjoy scenic adventures by bike on most Fridays, throughout the year. We'll explore pretty, peaceful roads in suburban counties -- Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, etc. Starting points will vary, so that we can cycle through different regions. Depending on the destination, starting point may be in Conshohocken, Flourtown, Jenkintown, Wayne, Valley Forge, etc. Please check the daily calendar for details of each Friday's route -- terrain, mileage, rest stops, etc. Cue sheets and on-line route map will be provided for each ride. Scheduled for virtually every Friday throughout the year, with a few exceptions here & there. If weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a hike/walk (on foot). As long as we are enjoying outdoor physical exercise, and Mother Nature, in the company of friends, we'll have a memorable outing.

Fifth easy ride in January will be to Norristown, to the Dunkink Donuts unless I can find a more appropriate coffee stop in the meantime. SRT out, returning via Bridgeport and West Conshohocken on the way back. Ride cancels only if it is raining or snowing one hour before start or ice or snow on the roads.

Every Saturday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Kimberton Wholefood store in Kimberton for an indoor coffee break, the ride 17.5 miles back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

Great roads with low traffic. We have a few routes that bring us out around or through Ridley Creek State Park. Average speed will be 16-17 mph, but note that these routes include over 4000' of climbing. Bring a snack for a brief mid-ride break. Consider the on-line routes approximate. Leave by 9:05 AM. Rain cancels.

(let it warm us a little more) no major hills. Regroup as needed. Lunch stop at local pizza parlor or WaWa. Bring somehting to drink and an on bike snack if needed.

Assemble at 9:50. We willl leave at 9:55 SHARP! Latest forecast is for sunny skies and low winds on Sat. AM. Ride through East Falls, Mount Airy, Chestnut Hill, Wyndmor, Fort Washington, Upper Dublin, Oreland, Whitemarsh, Ambler, and Manayunk. Many hills, but no killers. One quick comfort stop at mile 18 or so if needed, and long coffee stop in Manayunk at mile 40 or so (or in Flourtown at mile 25 or so if we are cold). (It's all about the coffee.) For you speedsters, note that I expect to be riding my hybrid..Riders doing advertised pace (which is what our computers should read as "average" at the finish) will not be dropped. Partial cue sheet showing turns, but not milage. Please preregister. It saves time and improves substantially my ability to read your emergency information.

BCP is pleased to announce its annual MEMBERS’ TRAVELOGUE MEETING. ALL members are warmly welcome to attend this social gathering -- a presentation by several club members about their cycling tours & trips. We'll share photos and memories of bike trips, from around the USA and far corners of the world. Light refreshments will be served. If you have photos & stories of bike journeys you’d like to share with your cycling pals, please contact Linda McGrane or Vince Calkins ASAP, preferably by Friday, Jan. 15. If you can assemble your photos on a CD/DVD or flash drive and submit them in advance, this would be ideal. VENUE: Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 West Willow Grove Ave, Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill), 19118. We'll be meeting in the Haber Room, on the first floor of Wissahickon Hall. Wissahickon Hall is the large, stately, gray stone building directly across from the Philadelphia Cricket Club and tennis courts. Parking: there is a free parking lot immediately adjacent to Wissahickon Hall. PUBLIC TRANSIT: Wissahickon Hall is 1-2 blocks from the St. Martin train station on Willow Grove Ave near Seminole St. REFRESHMENTS will be served. Meet & Greet with refreshments will begin at 6:00pm. Program begins at 6:45.. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: If you are available to volunteer to help with this event (for set-up or clean-up), please contact Linda ASAP. Thank you for volunteering! Thanks to Vince Calkins for organizing the technical presentations, and Mike Olszewski, for organizing the refreshments. If you are planning to join us at this event, please use the "Preregistration" link here to RSVP, so that we can plan the correct amount of refreshments. Hope to see you at the Travelogue!

Join me for a morning coffee ride to the High Point Cafe in West Mount Airy. The High Point has great joe. Weavers Way Coop is across the street for treats as well. We will head out the East River Drive path, climb Midvale and trek thru Germantown to Mt. Airy. Rain or snow one hour before ride will cancel. We may also explore some riding in Chestnut Hill----

Every Sunday thru March we will ride 17.5 miles to Hennings Market in Harleysville for an indoor coffee break, then ride 17.5 mile back to Valley Forge. Plan is to be back in VF by noon.

START LOCATION CHANGE - VALLEY GREENWe will start at the parking lot and head downstream (to the 1,000 steps & Ridge Ave.) and then back up the other side. There are no bathrooms along the way other than an oak tree so don't have that third cup of coffee. Appropriate footwear is recommended as the trail on the other side is rough. Four legged members are welcome. Please be on time.

OWLS (Older, Wiser, Longer, Slower) paced ride through Fairmont Park and beyond depending on the assembled group. Bring water, extra tube, layers to dress for the weather conditions, $ for mid-ride snack, helmet. No one will be dropped. There might me a hill or two, but walking will be allowed. We will assemble at the top of any hills. Bring sunny warm smiles. Ride will be cancelled for ice or snow on the roads, but not for cold.

A true C ride, which cheerfully waits to regroup. Usually 25-35 miles, usually with a lunch or snack stop. Meet at the Italian Fountain, near the parking garage sign.

FOR 1/31/16: New route from Bruno's to Horsham & Huntingdon Valley. Outbound via LaFayette Hill, Ft. Washington State Park, and Maple Glen. Brief rest stop at mile 21 at Starbucks in Huntingdon Valley. Return via Masons Mill/Pennypack, Ardsley, and North Hills.Total elevation gain is 1800 feet. Cycle through some pretty neighborhoods, as well as peaceful, wide -open green space in the Pennypack Trust area. GOOD NEWS: The earliest sunset of the year, which occurs before the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21), took place around Dec.13 - this is behind us by seven weeks. Evening daylight is now gradually beginning to get longer again. GENERIC DESCRIPTION: Scenic, 30-35-ish mile loop, usually through Montgomery County or Lower Bucks, with a brief rest stop. Unless otherwise stated, this winter afternoon ride will meet most Sundays at Bruno's Diner (finishing point for many of the Sunday morning Wissahickon hikes). We may on occasion meet at another location in Chestnut Hill. Even if you don't join the hike in the morning, you are welcome to cycle with us on this afternoon ride! We will stop to regroup if needed, but try as much as possible to maintain 13-15mph, due to short daylight. Plan is to return before 5:00pm. Please bring lights, just in case we return in the nick of time. Please ensure that your bike is ready before start time, so that we can leave promptly. Specific details will be posted for each Sunday's Route. Scheduled for EVERY Sunday throughout the winter (for the duration of the hiking season), weather permitting, EXCEPT Feb. 21. This ride will resume on Feb. 28. If winter weather conditions are not conducive to cycling, this ride may be replaced by a snow activity, e.g., cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing. As long as we keep moving throughout the winter, we will maintain our base fitness level for the return of spring cycling in March.