Tag Archives: pine creek rail trail

Conservation Project

Celebrate Bike Month: Bike Repair Stations Improve Trail Experience for Cyclists  

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May is Bike Month, and we’re celebrating with a look at how a single flat tire led to a series of upgrades for cyclists on the Pine Creek Rail Trail. 

What began as an unfortunate flat—eight miles from the car, with no air pump in sight—sparked a conversation among Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC) staff: what would make this trail even better for cyclists? The answer was simple: give riders access to basic bike repair tools right where they need them. 

Thanks to the support of our members and collaboration with partners, NPC has helped install a series of bicycle repair stations along the Pine Creek Rail Trail—ensuring that trail users can address minor mechanical issues and get back to enjoying the ride. 

A trio of cyclists use the bicycle repair station on the PCRT

From One Station to Many

NPC and our partners from the Pine Creek Preservation Association and Tiadaghton State Forest installed the first station several years ago at Bonnell Flats. Positioned near the comfort station, this location allowed the Bureau of Forestry to help monitor and maintain the unit. 

Since then, NPC and our partners installed two more repair stations in 2024: one at the Cammal Comfort Station and the other at Tomb Flats Recreation Area. 

Each station is equipped with tools for minor repairs and an air pump—ideal for fixing flat tires or making quick adjustments. These amenities not only reduce stress for cyclists but also help more people feel confident using and exploring the trail. 

The bicycle repair station at Bonnell Flats

A Collaborative Effort 

The bike repair station initiative is a shared success. In addition to NPC’s work with the Pine Creek Preservation Association and the Bureau of Forestry, similar stations have been installed by: 

Together, these efforts have built a network of support for cyclists along the entire 62-mile trail. 

Why It Matters 

The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, stretching through the heart of the Pine Creek Gorge and offering unmatched views, wildlife encounters, and a peaceful ride through the Pennsylvania Wilds. But even the most scenic ride can be interrupted by a loose chain or low tire. 

These repair stations may be small, but they have a big impact—improving safety, encouraging outdoor recreation, and making the trail more welcoming for everyone. 

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NPC and Williamsport Bicycle Recycle Partner to Offer Workshop 

Local bicyclists spent part of a recent rainy Saturday afternoon at Williamsport Bicycle Recycle’s space at the Pajama Factory. The group had signed up for a workshop offered jointly by Williamsport Bicycle Recycle (WBR) and the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy (NPC).  

Volunteers from WBR reviewed a basic bike maintenance checklist. Then each participant had the opportunity to run through the checklist on their bike with help from a WBR volunteer. 

The idea for the workshop came from Steve Young, an NPC board member and longtime WBR volunteer.

“As a NPC board member I see the projects NPC takes on with our partners to improve access to the Pine Creek Rail Trail and improve the experience for riders on the Trail. I thought a workshop that would help bike riders learn more about their bike could also introduce them to NPC and our work.”

Steve Young, WBR volunteer and NPC board member
WBR volunteer and NPC board member, Steve Young, walks participants through a basic bike maintenance checklist.

Some folks tuned up long-loved bikes, while others discovered new ones from WBR’s selection of refurbished rides. One participant, Jeff Kane, attended with his son.

“It’s great that Williamsport Bicycle Recycle let’s you work on your own bike using their tools with their supervision. I understand the basics of keeping a bicycle on the road but appreciate having someone who can help me figure things out. We’ve donated his old bikes here in the past, and I think we found a new-to-him bike here today.” 

Jeff Kane, workshop participant
Abigail Davids, WBR board member and officer, with Logan Kane and his new-to-him bike!

Connecting to the Pine Creek Rail Trail

NPC, in partnership with the Bureau of Forestry, has created several access points to the Pine Creek Rail Trail over the years. Tomb Flats south of Slate Run and the Cavanaugh Access along Route 6, west of Wellsboro are 2 of the more popular. Additionally, NPC has partnered with Pine Creek Preservation Association and the Bureau of Forestry to purchase and install bike repair stations.  

“Having a bike repair station with an air pump and basic tools along the Trail will hopefully help a rider get a broken bike back to their car a little more quickly. We stress routine bike maintenance and checking your bike before leaving home, but things happen while you’re riding.” 

Steve Young, WBR volunteer and NPC board member

Volunteers Keep the Wheels Turning

Steve Putt, WBR volunteer, walks participants through a bike repair demonstration.

Williamsport Bicycle Recycle offers workshops like this upon request as well as one-on-one help to maintain bicycles and educate cyclists on the basics of repair. The volunteer-run shop helps riders of all ages learn how to care for their bicycles, and they’re always looking for more hands to help.

“We really enjoy doing these workshops. They help us help bike riders. We’re always looking for more volunteer mechanics. The more volunteer mechanics we have, the more hours we can be open to help the community.” 

Abigail Davids, a WBR bord member and officer

Anyone interested in sharing their love of bicycles and gift of mechanics is encouraged contact WBR at williamsportbicyclerecycle@gmail.com.

Supporting Trails and Teaching Moments

Workshops like this reflect what NPC is all about—connecting people to the outdoors, collaborating with partners to create and enhance access, and helping communities care for the natural places they love. Whether it’s through installing bike repair stations, improving access to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, or teaming up with local volunteers, NPC’s work happens thanks to the generosity of members and donors like you.

Conservation of our region’s lands and waters are made possible through community support—please consider making a gift to NPC today!