By Linda Arceo
Looking for a fun and unique family friendly outdoor activity? How about a trip on the Revolution Rail?
Revolution Rail is an exciting new pedal-powered railbiking adventure now being offered in Cape May, New Jersey. By partnering with Cape May Seashore Lines, Revolution Rail brings South Jersey’s very first railbike location to the inactive railroad tracks of the Jersey shore.
This one-of-a-kind Cape May experience begins at the Welcome Center at 609 Lafayette Street in Cape May and travels across a 4 mile route. The ride is enjoyed at a leisurely pace and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.
While pedaling your rail bike along the railroad tracks, you will enjoy the natural scenes of Cape May including expansive native wildflower meadows, salt marshes, birds, cranes and raptors, and the many monarch butterflies who visit The Nature Conservancy and the Garrett Family Preserve during their migration.
Ready to take a trip on the Revolution Rail? Here’s everything you need to know for this memorable activity.
What to Expect
Arrive at the welcome center (located at 609 Lafayette Street) 15-20 minutes before your scheduled reservation to check-in. Reservations are strongly recommended and you can book your preferred tour time directly on the Revolution Rail website (www.revrail.com).
What about the Railbike?
Railbikes are available in doubles for two riders or quads for four riders. The railbikes operate similarly to a paddleboat or bicycle and are completely pedal powered. The railbikes are easy to pedal and you can travel at your preferred pace.
Who Can Ride?
Riders of all ages and ability levels can ride on the Revolution Rail. Loose lap babies are not allowed, however, infants can ride in a front-mounted child carrier (like a Baby Bjorn). Toddlers can ride in a front-mounted child carrier or, if they can keep their heads up, they can use the 5-point harnesses offered by Revolution Rail and ride along in their own seat. Children ages 4 and up can ride in their own seat, using the railbike seat belts. Note: There is a 300 lb weight limit per rider per seat.
123What to Bring?
Be sure to bring a camera to capture the sights of the tour. There is plenty to see along the route including plentiful nature scenes, graffiti art and historic spots.
Snacks, non-alcoholic drinks and water are allowed. You should also dress weather appropriate and bring sunscreen and insect repellent. We visited Revolution Rail on a chilly day and bundled up in coats, hats and gloves and felt completely comfortable.
Restrictions
Do not bring your pets. Drugs, alcohol and glass containers are also prohibited.
Pro Tips
Prepare for all types of weather. The tours operate rain or shine.
Wear comfortable shoes for optimal pedaling.
Each railbike has a small cargo net in the rear of the bike for small, personal belongings.
Say cheese! Tour operators take your picture at a picturesque spot towards the end of the tour. Photos are made available to riders via a photo-sharing website.
Revolution Rail is a bucket-list must and the perfect way to kickoff your day in Cape May.
Linda Arceo is the owner and content creator behind the food, drink and travel blog Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps. Linda is a digital influencer and freelance writer focusing on food, travel, lifestyle and culinary tourism. Linda’s blog can be found at www.gigglesgobblesandgulps.com and you can follow her on Instagram at @GigGobGulp.
