OC Railriders open to peddle the rails May 20

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OC Railriders open to peddle the rails May 20 Coos Bay World

The Oregon Coast Railriders are inviting folks to check out a different kind of outdoor recreation by riding a peddle-powered cycle along railroad tracks in the Coquille Valley.

“It’s very unique but the popularity is growing by leaps and bounds,” said Anita Metlen, who owns the business with her husband Kim.

The business owners said they combined their passion for bicycles and fitness with their love for history and nature when they got into railriding. They tested their first railrider in 2013 and started their latest venture, the Oregon Coast Railriders, last summer in Coquille.

The Metlens said they have an agreement with the Port of Coos Bay to use the out-of-service railroad, as well as with the City of Coquille, to depart and return from Sturdivant city park.

During the tour, each person pedals independently while riding on a four seat quadricycle. Guides travel with each tour group along the route and turn the quadri-cycles around for the way back, so everyone is always traveling in the same direction. The full 10-mile route usually takes about 2 hours to complete.

“We generally travel at a leisurely pace because we want you to be able to disconnect from everyday life and be able to enjoy nature as you are going through,” Metlen said.

Each 4-seat unit is separate for a total of 10 railriders. Groups of four will be seated together, and couples can be paired up together. Each railrider can be rented for groups of less than four for the price of four riders, but, the tour guides said it is enjoyable to make a new friend or two if you are willing.

Anyone who goes on a railrider tour can expect to get a healthy dose of fresh air, some physical activity, as well as nature and wildlife viewing.

“The track goes along the edge of the Coquille valley, so you see the expanse of the valley itself,” Metlen said.

“You’ll see ...

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That looks like fun, a must do next trip in that area.