Known as the most spectacular ride in the Adirondacks, Ride for the River has been supporting the conservation work of the Ausable Freshwater Center since 2011.
For over a decade, Ride for the River has been a do-not-miss celebration of the stunning Ausable River watershed. Featuring multiple breathtaking route options, the event also hosts a 20-mile "tailgater" group ride on July 11 for those who'd like to come into town a day or two early to make it a weekend.

Dates: July 11-12
Location: Wilmington
Mileage: 20-40 miles
Participation Cap: 150 riders
Benefits: Ausable Freshwater Center
This fun annual fundraiser directly supports the important work of the nonprofit Ausable Freshwater Center to protect the clean waters, healthy streams, biodiverse habitats, and scenic beauty of the Ausable River watershed.
Highlights include fabulous catering, live music, and all sorts of freshwater fun.
Registration Includes
Tailgater
- Guided small group ride
- Post ride appetizers and drinks overlooking the Ausable River.
- A lot of fun with a great crew of new friends
In-Person Ride for the River
- Two fully-supported routes
- Finish line lunch featuring live music
- Event gift
- Copy of Adirondack Life Magazine
Rider Experiences
"One of the most beautiful bike rides in the eastern United States. We look forward to the Ride for the River event every year. Always well run, well marked, and lots of friendly people!"
"If you have never ridden by bike through the AuSable watershed before, you need to do this. The scenery and views are amazing, and the towns of Wilmington, Jay, and AuSable Forks are very cool to explore."
"The alliance between BikeADK and AFC for the benefit of AFC could not be better. BikeADK are masterful at running the ride and after event, and AFC is doing such important work."
"First time with BikeADK and it was great! Fun route with gorgeous views. The snack stations were well stocked with happy faces and yummy treats! We can’t wait to ride again!"
Event Schedule
Saturday, July 11*
3p - Tailgater – Casual small group ride followed by apps and drinks along the river
Sunday, July 12
730a - Registration Opens
830a - Long Ride Sendoff
930a - Short Ride Sendoff
12:30p - BBQ & Live Music
2p - Event Raffle
3p - Routes Closed
*Registration Add On
Routes
FAQs
What does the event support?
Ride for the River supports the Ausable Freshwater Center's efforts to protect the clean waters, natural hydrology, diverse ecology, and scenic beauty of the Ausable. Learn more about their important work at AusableRiver.org.
What does registration include?
In-Person Registration Includes:
- Two fully-supported routes
- Finish line lunch featuring live music
- Copy of Adirondack Life Magazine
- Event Gift
- BikeADK Sticker
Tailgater Includes:
- Guided small group ride
- Post ride pizza and drinks
- A lot of fun with a great crew of new friends
Are e-bikes allowed?
Yes, all Class 1 pedal assist e-bikes are welcome.
How long are the routes?
Ride for the River features multiple fully supported route distances varying from 20 to 40 miles.
What is the refund/transfer policy?
The policy is as follows:
- Refunds of any amount do not include BikeReg service fees.
- 100% if requested 60 or more days before the event.
- 50% if requested between 60-30 days before the event.
- Refunds are not available if requested less than 30 days before the event. However, the registration can be transferred to another person or deferred to the following year.
- If the event is canceled by organizers, 100% refunds will be issued or registrations can be deferred to the following year.
Our official hotel for this event is the voco Saranac Lake waterfront hotel, which offers a modern adventure in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Located on Lake Flower's Pontiac Bay, the nature-connected design, and high-level guest service focused on supporting a thoughtful stay, makes the Lodge the premier destination in the Adirondack High Peaks Region. Click this link when booking for a special discount.
Bike Rental
- Rentals are available from High Peaks Cyclery in Lake Placid.
