Holden, a university professor and farmer, seeing that there were limited areas for safe cycling in his community, co-founded a nonprofit group called the Allegheny Valley Trails Association (AVTA) in 1990.
Twenty-five years ago, such a trail system would have been a far-reaching and unlikely dream. "It rained, but it didn't dampen any spirits." "We had a wonderful event with about 50 participants," says Harris, who organized the ride and is secretary of the Erie-to-Pittsburgh Trail Alliance. Riders enjoy the Erie-to-Pittsburgh Trail on the Jim Holden Memorial Ride. Earlier this month, locals got to experience the trail system firsthand on a 60-mile memorial bike ride to honor the trail's guiding soul, the late Jim Holden, a man of warmth, drive and-most of all-vision. It serves as a key component of the growing Erie-to-Pittsburgh Trail, a 270-mile network comprised primarily of rail-trails, which is currently 60 percent complete. Though the trail would be a worthwhile visit in and of itself, it's directly connected to or near several others in the region. Many eagles are also spotted there because of the trail's location by the river." "Every time I'm on the trail, I see deer, and often wild turkeys and chipmunks galore.
"It's quite scenic, and you see wildlife constantly," adds Kim Harris, project manager for the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry and Tourism. "The Allegheny River Trail is one great vista after another," says Tom Sexton, RTC's northeast regional director. And it's on the cusp of being even better peak fall colors are expected to arrive in early to mid-October the trail, lined with oaks, maples, elms and other tree varieties will be spectacular. The 32-mile Allegheny River Trail in northwestern Pennsylvania seemingly has it all for a perfect getaway. Unique historical sites and a smooth, easy riding surface? Check, check. Welcoming towns with friendly people? Check. Photo credit Tom Bilcze Trail of the Month - September 2014 "The Allegheny River Trail is one great vista after another."
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