Fat Bike the TOBIE Pedestrian and Bike Pathway

Fatbikes, bikes with oversized tires and wider rims, designed to ride on snow, sand, through mud and over roots, have become more mainstream in the last couple of years. Thankfully, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Store in Old Forge has jumped on the bandwagon and now offers half-day and full-day rentals of Surley Pugsley fatbikes.

Start riding right from their front door to get onto the TOBIE pedestrian and bike pathway which winds its way through town offering both on-road and off-road options. For an easy three mile loop with minimum elevation gain, take Hemlock Street and then turn left to go over the wooden bridge that crosses the Moose River. Continue onto Railroad Avenue, which turns into Park Ave, until you come to Lakeview Ave. Here is a park area which is a nice place to take a break and look out over Old Forge Pond.

As you head back on Park Ave., keep an eye out for the well-marked Maple Ridge trailhead marked by a kiosk. Beginners will have fun on the one mile multi-use loop trail that brings you back out to Park Ave. This trail takes you through the woods and can be challenging if the snow is deeper then eight inches. Make sure to keep out of the snowshoe tracks; out of respect for the trail and because it is difficult to ride through them.

For those who would like a little more of a challenge, McCauley Mountain, the local ski hill, offers riding for fatbikes on their groomed trails. For free! A map of the trail system is available at the lodge. Call ahead to make sure the trails are open, as they do close them depending on weather conditions: (315) 369-3225.

After you return your fatbike, make your way into town and enjoy a bite of food and libations. Slickers Tavern is a great place to enjoy a burger and local ale, and Walt's Diner serves up the best homemade pie in town.