Spring means the beginning of peak bicycle riding season along the Erie Canalway Trail. From May through August, one way to enjoy the trail in Central New York is to join other riders after work for Tuesdays on the Towpath.

Held the second and fourth Tuesday from May 12 to August 25 at 6:00 p.m., the free eight-ride series features 10-mile guided bike rides along different sections of trail in Old Erie Canal State Park east of Syracuse, followed by the opportunity for dinner and drinks at a nearby restaurant. Bike rentals are available by calling the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.

The rides are both a great way to get out and enjoy the trail after work and demonstrate the trail’s economic impact on nearby businesses. Hosted by local canal-related museums and organizations, the series of social rides kicks off on May 12 in Oneida at Oneida Commons. If you can’t make the first ride, don’t worry, additional rides are scheduled.