Biking

Bicycle Route 17 follows the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (Route 97) for 70 miles. One can intersect Pennsylvannia´s Bicycle Route “Y” at the Roebling Bridge in the Town of Highland (the middle section of the Byway).

The bicycle route along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway is recommended for experienced road riders. Bicyclists share the roadway, most of the way, with motorized vehicles. Watch for debris and animals in your path.

Many of the hamlets like Narrowsburg or Callicoon offer the less experienced bicycle rider an alternative way to get from a bed & breakfast to the local diner.

Please follow the Rules of the Road

Cyclists in New York State have the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicle operators. Obey traffic regulations: stop at red lights, obey signs, observe speed limits and follow lane markings.

Keep at least 3 feet of clearance when you’re passing another bicyclist — more at high downhill speeds. Seasons and Limits

When you’re about to pass another bicyclist, it’s your responsibility to do it safely. The other members of your group can’t read your mind to know that you are about to change position in the group. Check behind you before you change your lane position. Call out, “On your left” to the bicyclist you’re passing, and pass on the left of their bike.

Never sneak past another bicyclist on the right — if you do, you force the other bicyclist farther toward the middle of the road without warning.

Intersections of New York State Bicycle Route 17
As part of a larger New York State Department of Transportation effort, State Bike Route 17 begins in Buffalo and continues across the Southern Tier of New York State, entering Orange County. The section of this Route in Orange County follows state highways and passes many historic and scenic sites. State Bike Route 17 enters Orange County on Route 97 and then follows Route 6 east through Port Jervis to Middletown. The Bike Route then continues on Route 6/17M to Goshen. At Goshen, the bike route continues on Washington Street, then follows Marine Drive along the Hudson River and crosses the Hudson River via the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge on a separate bicycle/pedestrian facility. Bike Route 17 ends in Dutchess County, where it intersects with Bike Route 9 near the City of Beacon.

MAPS

New York State Bicycle Route 17 Map for the UDSB section (PDF)

Maps for NYS routes can be obtained with no charge from:

New York State Department of Transportation
Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
50 Wolf Road, 54
Albany, NY 12232
Phone: (518) 457-8307
Link to NYDOT Bicycling information

Pennsylvania Bicycle Route “Y”(PDF)
One can intersect to Pennsylvannia´s Bicycle Route “Y” at the Roebling Bridge in the Town of Highland (the middle section of the Byway) off of NYS Route 97. At 409 miles, Bicycle Route “Y” generally follows U.S. Route 6 through the deep forests of northern Pennsylvania. It offers access to Routes A and Z in the west and Route L in the east. It’s often the choice for people cycling between Cleveland, Toledo, Detroit, or Chicago and the New York metropolitan area.

Bicycle Safety

* Indicates legal requirements in New York State

Wear a Helmet

  • Bicyclists ages 1 through 13 are required to wear an approved helmet when riding. Passengers ages 1 through 4 must wear a helmet and be fastened in a suitable seat. No passengers under age 1 are permitted.* Some local laws in New York State require riders of all ages to wear helmets.
  • All cyclists should wear a properly fitting helmet bearing a certification by one of the following groups:Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
    • American Society for Testing and materials (ASTM)
    • Snell Memorial Foundation

Follow the Rules of the Road

  • Obey traffic regulations: stop at red lights, obey signs, observe speed limits, and follow lane markings.* Cyclists in New York State have the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicle operators.
  • Never ride against traffic.* Drivers do not expect bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the street. Even in marked bike lanes, ride in the direction of traffic.
  • Use hand signals. Signal in advance of turns.*
  • Never wear headphones while cycling. *

Share the Road with Vehicles and Pedestrians

  • Be aware of your surroundings. Make eye contact with motorists and pedestrians. Watch for debris and obstructions in your path.
  • Ride predictably in traffic. Avoid weaving between vehicles and dodging between parked cars.
  • Use a horn, bell, or voice warning when passing pedestrians or slow-moving cyclists.
  • Always yield to pedestrians. Yield to other vehicles as appropriate.
  • Be careful at intersections. If necessary, dismount your bicycle and cross at pedestrian crosswalks.

Outfit Your Body

  • Wear close-fitting, light-colored clothing that is appropriate for the season. Pant clips keep clothing from catching or rubbing on gears and chains.
  • If you must ride at night, wear clothing with reflective patches or stripes. Some helmets can be outfitted with front and rear lights.
  • On long trips, plan regular rest breaks. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. Pack nutritious foods for energy.
  • For extended rides, plan for safety and comfort. Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it for minor emergencies. Pack clothing for unexpectedly cold or wet weather. Plan meal breaks and overnight stops in advance. Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home.

Outfit Your Bicycle

  • Use lights at night, both front and rear.* The headlight should be bright white and visible from 500 feet. The rear reflector or taillight should be visible from 300 feet. At least one of the lights should be visible at least 200 feet from the side.
  • Your bicycle should also be equipped with wheel and pedal reflectors, or other reflective surfaces.*
  • Make sure your bicycle fits your body, and keep it in good condition.
  • Carry a tool kit on long road trips and learn how to perform basic repairs