RAIL EXPLORERS RHODE ISLAND

All aboard! Rail Explorers is not your typical ride along the train tracks. It’s an adventure with beautiful views, time with family and friends, and plenty of photo ops. But there’s one catch – you need to work for it!

During your Rail Explorers experience, you’ll pedal down train tracks in a railbike fit for two or four people. Every trail is different and the ride time can vary. The tours are self-guided, so you can pedal at your own speed. Also, you don’t need to be an athlete to feel comfortable pedaling, people of all ages and abilities can participate!

Chris and I never felt rushed during our tour; we slowed down and even stopped to take in the views and snap some pictures. Even still, we stayed cognizant of where the railkbikes in front of us and behind us were. We adjusted our speed, when needed, to be courteous of the other riders and to put ourselves in the best position on the track.

You won’t come across trains on the tracks, but you may encounter pedestrians, animals, or cars on your journey, but don’t worry, every railbike has a brake. Rail Explorers staff members may also be along the tracks in high traffic areas to prevent accidents. Overall, it’s a fun and safe activity (you’re also wearing a seatbelt).

Rail Explorers has four locations across the United States and several different tours to choose from. We rode the Northern Ramble trail in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, pedaling six miles through the trees and along the Narragansett Bay. Before we took off, we rode a shuttle bus to our starting point, then pedaled back to where we parked our cars. Not all tours are like this, some are round trip.

Here are some tips for your Rail Explorers adventure:

MAKE A RESERVATION

Book your tour in advance to reserve your spot! You won’t want to miss on this opportunity because tours are sold out. If Rail Explorers needs to cancel due to extreme weather or other circumstances, you will be given the option to reschedule or receive a refund. Otherwise, there are no refunds.

WHAT TO WEAR

It depends on the weather! Chris and I pedaled in the rain, but we still had a great time. Rail Explorers provided ponchos and umbrellas, and we bundled up in sweatshirts.

Wear pants or shorts that are comfortable to bend your knees in, just like you’re riding a bike. I was fine in jeans, but you may prefer workout leggings. I would also recommend wearing closed-toe shoes so you don’t run the risk of losing a shoe or stubbing your toe on a pedal. Sneakers aren’t mandatory; I wore rain boots.

WHAT TO BRING

Each cart has a basket to store your things, which is convenient! Operating the cart is hands-free, so you can also hold things while pedaling.

If your tour stops at a picnic area, you’ll want to bring lunch or snacks. If it doesn’t, you can still bring food and drinks on board.
Bring your phone or camera to take photos and videos of the journey.
If it rains: Rail Explorers will provide ponchos and umbrellas.
If it’s hot and sunny: sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a hat.
A small seat cushion might be helpful. Just like riding a bike, the seat started to get a little uncomfortable for me towards the end.

Rail Explorers was such a unique experience and I’m so glad we did it, even despite the rain. I’d love to try it in other locations to check out the different trails and views.