PEC’s annual Public Lands Ride returned to Black Moshannon State Park on Sep. 28, bringing together more than 150 riders from across the state to enjoy trails, gravel, and the incomparable beauty of Pennsylvania’s public lands.
For the first time since its debut in 2019, the event sold out, and we couldn’t be happier to see so many people getting excited about getting outside and exploring our beautiful state. Clouds and a bit of morning rain didn’t deter the riders, who departed from the start line with smiles on their faces.
Riders could choose from routes of 22, 42 or 65 miles, which wound through the state park and Black Moshannon State Forest. The leaves on many trees had turned various shades of yellow and orange, adding a pop of color to an overcast day.
Helping to make the event such a success was a dedicated team of volunteers and local businesses. From the aid station volunteers handing out water, snacks, and freshly fried pierogi, to a radio crew ensuring everyone has cleared the course safely, we couldn’t do this ride without their involvement. Alabaster Coffee Roaster and Tea Company, based in Williamsport, fueled our morning with freshly brewed espresso drinks. Boal City Brewing, based in Boalsburg, poured beer and non-alcoholic drinks at the finish line.
The Public Lands Ride underscores a number of PEC’s core beliefs around outdoor recreation, the first being that getting outside cultivates a sense of stewardship.
“We believe that people who are out here enjoying nature, doing something like riding through this scenery and these places encourages them to care more about these places and the environment,” said PEC program manager and ride organizer Helena Kotala.
To encourage riders to take in the natural surroundings, this year’s ride introduced Public Lands Ride Bingo, featuring challenges like spotting the state flower (mountain laurel) or stopping to take in a vista.
PEC also sees outdoor recreation as a tool for economic development, particularly in rural areas. On the night before the ride, PEC hosted a reception at The Dead Canary Brewing Company, a local business in Phillipsburg.
“We were able to bring a lot of people into the area, and then some of those people come back to the area to ride now that they see how beautiful it is,” Kotala said.
