A little solitude awaits you in the Catskills--if that's what you're looking for.
The scenic roads and fall foliage of the Catskill Mountains make them a great place to take a motorcycle ride, whether it's in a group or alone. When you want to do a little more socializing, there are a number of Catskills motorcycle events to keep you busy. Keep in mind though, that most motorcycle events in the area take place during the warmer months.
Catskill Mountain Thunder
This is probably the premiere motorcycle event in the Catskills, with three days of fun and music in September. As of 2010, the event had been going strong for 13 years. Take your pick between hotel accommodations, or RV or tent camping, all located in a mountain resort. Take part in nightly concerts and motorcycle racing, tour the vendor market, watch the fireworks shows, participate in a group ride, or attend one of the workshop --it's all there at Mountain Thunder.
Catskill Mountain Thunder
Attention: Blackthorne Resort
Sunside Road
East Durham, NY 12423
518-634-2541
catskillmountainthunder.com
Mid-Hudson Chapter rides
The Mid-Hudson Chapter of the Southern Cruisers Riding Club puts on several annual events in the Catskills, including the Juliette Lia Memorial Ride and the Catskill 300. The events typically take riders on a day's ride through the Catskills, and include a dinner the night before, lunch on the day of the event, as well as door prizes and other goodies. The Mid-Hudson Chapter also plans other smaller rides and events to various places throughout the year.
Mid-Hudson Chapter
Southern Cruisers Riding Club
midhudsonchapter.com
Rhinebeck Show & Swap Meet
Located in the foothills of the Catskills in the town of Rhinebeck, the Rhinebeck National Antique Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet is a treat for the motorcycle collector. According to the Catskill Mountain Foundation, the June show is one of the largest antique motorcycle shows in the United States. It features antique parts and intact motorcycles on sale and display, as well as antique machinery and aviation memorabilia.
Rhinebeck National Antique Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet
Dutchess County Fairgrounds
6550 Spring Brook Ave
Rhinebeck, NY 12572-3714
518-622-8519
rhinebecknationalmeet.com
Color in the Catskills
This ride is a three-day event sponsored by the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America and its host location, Hunter Mountain. The October event features music every day, trail rides, group rides, motorcycle vendors and food booths. Lodging and camping are available at Hunter Mountain. You do not need to own a BMW motorcycle to take part in the event. Buy tickets directly from Hunter Mountain.
Hunter Mountain
PO Box 295
Hunter, NY 12442
Huntermtn.com
Tags: Hunter Mountain, Mid-Hudson Chapter, Catskill Mountain, Mountain Thunder, Show Swap, Show Swap Meet