Rail Bikes: a new form of adventure awaits
By Mark Okrant
Perhaps you’re one of those people who thinks you have tried just about every summer activity that central New Hampshire has to offer. Unless you and your friends or family members have hopped aboard a rail bike, also known as a draisine, this is not a true statement. It’s only natural that the rail bike, or draisine, has its history intertwined with railroads. These strange devices date back to the 1850s, when they were used by railroad companies to inspect and maintain tracks and transport workers, as well as by telegraph companies to maintain their lines along the tracks. Those early versions were often handcars, requiring workers to manually pump a lever to move along the tracks.
With the advent of automobiles and other forms of transportation in the mid-20th century, the functionality of rail bikes declined. More recently, rail bikes have seen a resurgence as a recreational activity, with tour companies offering scenic rides on decommissioned or lightly used tracks. These modern rail bikes are often designed with comfort and safety in mind, featuring multiple wheels for stability and comfortable seating, with some even offering an electric assist. When this writer first learned about rail bikes, the thought elicited a cringe. After all, wouldn’t there be the risk of colliding with an oncoming train? Not at all. Tour companies have removed such threats by operating only on designated tracks with appropriate safety measures in place, such as speed limits and strictly designated routes. Rail bikes are easy to pedal and have been built with users’ safety in mind, as they include comfortable seats with seat belts and handlebars to rest users’ hands. There are also redundant disc brakes for additional safety.
Here in New Hampshire, there are two excellent options for recreationists who are anxious to give rail bikes a try: Scenic RailRiders of Concord and Granite State Rail Bikes departing from Laconia. Scenic RailRiders is a family-owned company that opened in July of 2019 after two years of careful investigation and planning. The family has designed and built its rail bikes from the drawing board. They took the initiative of designing a site and building their own storage system. The new company was fortunate to find a beautiful stretch of abandoned railroad tracks in Concord, where the tracks had not been removed. This stretch formed their rail-trail. The owners describe their Rail-Bike tour as a visit to:
“The last remaining section of the Northern Railroad track built in 1846. Our tour covers from just south of 2nd Street in Concord to Commercial Street in Boscawen. Truly a special opportunity to pedal our custom-made four-wheel rail bikes on the railroad tracks. The route will take you through some woods, farmlands, and along the Merrimack River. As you travel along these tracks you can enjoy the scenery, tranquil river views, and fresh air while getting in a little exercise. The trip includes a 2.2-mile round trip southern leg and a 4-mile round-trip northern leg. We have two turn-around points where you get to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery along the Merrimack River. You also get a chance to visit the Hannah Duston Memorial Statue as a destination on our tour.”
The Scenic RailRiders trip is 6.2 miles and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. It is the owners’ intention that people will take a rail bike tour, then visit local area restaurants and stores. Meanwhile, there are wonderful hiking opportunities at the nearby Sewalls Falls Recreational Area. A two-seat rail bike costs $95-100, while a four-seater is $175-185. Telephone 603 931-1700 or email info@scenicrailriders.com to book.
Granite State Rail Bikes provides a fascinating way to tour the Lakes Region. Departing from Laconia’s Veterans Square, Granite State Rail Bikes provides opportunities to travel along the shores of Lake Winnisquam aboard one of its custom-built four-person vehicles. This picturesque 5-mile round-trip journey begins and ends at the historic Laconia Railroad Station, that first opened its doors in 1892 and operated until the late 1960s. Riders set off on a historic rail line dating back to 1848. This special adventure travels along the shores of Lake Winnisquam aboard one of the custom-built, four-person, rail bikes. Riders immerse themselves in the fresh New Hampshire air as they pedal away from the city, then glide alongside the stunning lakeside scenery. After departing from Laconia Station, they soon leave the built-up area of Laconia and witness the beauty and rich history of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region—viewing the water, flora, and fauna, numerous watercraft, and elegant homes along the lake.
Granite State Rail Bikes operates from May through October, allowing riders to capture spring, summer, and fall in the beautiful New Hampshire Lakes Region. The cost of a summer season (May 24-September 19) trip is $164.99 for four riders. During the fall (September 20-October 31) season, the fare is $184.99. All bikes are four-seaters. However, larger groups can be accommodated. The headquarters of Granite State Rail Bikes is located in Laconia Station at 15 Veterans Square in Laconia. For information or to purchase tickets, either telephone (904) 870-4273 or email dynamicticketsolutions.com.
To ensure that the experience is safe and enjoyable, both rail bike companies require that:
prospective riders schedule their trip and pay for tickets in advance
riders arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure that parking is available
riders understand and complete liability waivers
no one attempts to bring small children or pets on the excursion
everyone must be aware of the respective maximum weight limits of the two companies
riders must understand that there is no alcohol, smoking, or vaping allowed on the rail bikes
everyone will wear only closed-toe shoes
When patrons follow these simple regulations, Scenic RailRiders and Granite State Rail Bikes can assure that a very special recreation opportunity—one that immerses riders in a memorable way to view New Hampshire’s beautiful natural environment—will be provided.