A six-mile loop trail connecting the village of New Paltz to the Shawangunk Ridge will officially open Saturday, Sept. 8, with an event featuring local dignitaries and a ceremonial First Bike Ride and Walk.
The $1.7 million trail was constructed by the Open Space Institute with support of the Butler Conservation Fund, for public use and enjoyment.
The trail traverses stunning, rolling hills and runs alongside active farmland. Limited event parking will be available at the River-to-Ridge trailhead parking area at Springtown Road. Following the speakers, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, and a first bike ride / first hike opportunity.
Protected lands on the ridge include the 8,000-acre Mohonk Preserve and 22,275-acre Minnewaska State Park.
The opening celebration will be held at the River-to-Ridge Trail Trailhead, 41 Springtown Road, New Paltz, NY (near the intersection of Springtown Road and Route 299) from 10 a.m. to noon. Speakers include representatives of the Open Space Institute and Mohonk Preserve; and local officials including: Mike Hein, county executive; Kevin Cahill, NYS assemblyperson; Tim Rogers, mayor of the village of New Paltz; and Neil Bettez, supervisor of the Town of New Paltz.
Join the family! 
