Bike the Barns: Celebrate Adirondack Agriculture and Cycling
Experience the best of the Adirondacks’ agriculture in the Lake Champlain region of the ADK.
Biking the Barns in the Adirondacks' Lake Champlain region. Photo by Bike ADK.
Every fall, the scenic landscapes of the Adirondacks come alive with the sound of spinning wheels and the joyful chatter of cyclists participating in one of the region's most beloved events: Bike the Barns.
Organized by the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA), this annual cycling tour is more than just a ride through breathtaking scenery. It celebrates sustainable agriculture, local food, and the community spirit that defines the North Country.
It also takes place the third week of September, prime autumn leaf-peeping season.
Exploring the North Country on two wheels.
Bike the Barns takes cyclists on a journey through the Adirondacks' picturesque farmlands and rolling hills. The route can accommodate cyclists of all skill levels, from seasoned riders looking for a challenge to families seeking a leisurely day outdoors.
Bikers of all abilities participate in Bike the Barns. Photo courtesy Bike ADK.
The Bike the Barns expert organizers designed the route to highlight the region's beauty while providing participants with an up-close look at some of the area’s with an up-close look at some of the area’s most innovative and sustainable farms.
The 2024 Bike the Barns path is just under 23 miles long. As cyclists pedal along the route, they are treated to stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains, tranquil rivers, and expansive meadows.
The event is held during the fall when the landscape is a vibrant red, orange, and gold tapestry, making for an unforgettable experience.
An Adirondack feast for the senses.
Bike the Barns’ focus on local agriculture sets it apart from other cycling events. The ride includes stops at various farms, where participants can meet local farmers, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy farm-fresh food. Each stop is a chance to experience the diversity and richness of the North Country’s agricultural scene.
It doesn't get more farm to table than at Bike the Barns. Photo courtesy ANCA.
These farm visits often feature guided tours, allowing cyclists to see firsthand how the food on their plates is grown, harvested, and prepared. From organic vegetable farms to dairy operations and artisan cheese makers, the farms on the route represent the best of Adirondack agriculture.
The event’s focus on local food extends to the rest stops and post-ride meals, where participants can enjoy delicious dishes made with ingredients sourced from the farms they visited. It’s an authentic farm-to-fork experience that highlights the flavors of the Adirondacks.
Supporting local farms and communities.
Beyond the ride and the food, Bike the Barns supports the local economy and promotes sustainable agriculture. The event is a fundraiser for ANCA’s work in the region, including its efforts to support small farms and local food initiatives. By participating in Bike the Barns, cyclists directly contribute to the vitality of the North Country’s agricultural community.
The funds raised from the event help support programs that assist farmers in improving their operations, reaching new markets, and adopting sustainable practices. This cause resonates with many participants, who appreciate the opportunity to support local food systems while enjoying a beautiful day outdoors.
The tour begins (and ends) at Ausable Brewing Co. This year’s stops include:
Ausable Brewing Company in Keeseville. Photo courtesy Bike ADK.
Join the ride — in person or from your La-Z-Boy — but you better act fast.
Bike the Barns has become a much-anticipated event in the Adirondacks, attracting cyclists from all over the region and beyond. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who cares about supporting local farms and sustainable practices, Bike the Barns offers a unique and enriching experience.
It's a celebration of the land, the people who work it, and the simple joy of a bike ride through some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.
REGISTER NOW! The event is capped at 200 participants and tends to sell out fast. If you don’t make the cut-off for the biking event, you may still be able to purchase tickets for the end-of-ride celebration at Ausable Brewing.
Can’t make it to the ADK? Join virtually at your leisure.
So, gear up, hop on your bike, and join the ride. Discover the Adirondacks, meet the farmers who nurture the land, and enjoy the taste of fresh, local food. Bike the Barns is more than just an event—it’s a testament to the enduring connection between people, food, and the land.
P.S. If the event is sold out by the time you can register, mark it on your calendar to follow-up next summer to register for 2025.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Keeseville, NY.
