The Ausable River Association (AsRa) and Bike Adirondacks (BikeADK) will be hosting their ninth annual “Ride for the River” event July 17-26.

This event was created in 2012 by the AsRA to celebrate the river and the resilience of local communities around the river after they were devastated by flooding caused by the tropical storm Irene. All proceeds from the event go to directly supporting the AsRA and their protection of the clean waters, healthy streams and diverse habitats of the Ausable River watershed. The 2020 Ride continues the celebration while raising funds to restore the damaged portions of the river and address the growing concern over road salt, particularly around Mirror Lake in Lake Placid.

“Ride for the River is a wonderful way for friends and family to enjoy the Ausable River watershed at its best. We’re excited to be able to offer the event in a different format this year and hope that the additional riding dates will allow more participation from all of our community members and supporters.” Says Tyler Merriam, AsRA Donor Outreach Associate.

For the third straight year, BikeADK will host the “Tailgater,” a casual evening ride on Friday, July 17. This event drew record numbers in 2019, and is a great way to learn more about the work of the Ausable River Association and the difference they’re making in the watershed.

“We’ve taken the right steps for people to safely ‘come together’ to support the Ausable River Association through the joy of cycling,” said Doug Haney, BikeADK Owner and Founder. “The Tailgater will provide guests with a chance to get close with the river during a casual small group guided ride with Ausable River Association staff, while the marked routes and week-long format provides the flexibility for anyone to explore this incredible watershed on their own schedule and pace.”

Routes (30 & 45 miles) will be marked by the morning of Saturday, July 18 and participants can ride them anytime they’d like until Sunday, July 26. Riders who can’t make it to Wilmington can ride in support of the Ausable River Association on a favorite route near them. All routes are self-supported, and route maps are available on the BikeADK website.

Ride for the River is sponsored by the Hungry Trout Resort, Patagonia, Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, River Stone Wellness Center, Ausable River Two Fly Shop, Long Run Wealth Advisors, and other local businesses.

To register for the event, click here, and to learn more about the AsRA, visit this link.