Photo Gallery: Rain or Shine with Bike the Barns

by Caitlin Bottcher, ANCA Events Coordinator

The spirit of adventure was palpable when adrenaline and enthusiasm collided amidst challenging weather conditions for ANCA’s annual Bike the Barns. On Saturday, October 7, 2023, over 100 bikers of various skill levels embraced the challenge, pedaling their way through torrential rain from farm stop to farm stop. 

Their route took them to the Babbie Rural and Farm Learning Museum and Northern Orchard in Peru, N.Y. and Mace Chasm Farm and North Country Creamery in Keeseville — each offering a chance to experience the importance of small farms in our region’s history, culture and economy. 

The event began and ended at the Ausable Brewing Company in Keeseville, where exhilarated and soggy riders were greeted with a finish-line celebration of tasty food and drink and local live music. A hearty lunch, served by Dubb’s BBQ and Northern Feast, fresh beer brewed by our hosts at Ausable Brewing, and foot-stomping rhythms played by Russ Cook, created a warm and jovial atmosphere inside the brewery’s pavilion.  

The determination of the riders and volunteers who participated in the event despite the rain demonstrates their commitment to ANCA’s food system work and the farms and food businesses that are such an integral part of our region’s rural communities and local economies.

As riders were preparing to embark on their trek, ANCA’s Local Food System Program Director Adam Dewbury reminded them in his opening remarks: “Farmers are out in these elements every day, rain or shine.” 

ANCA works closely with farmers and food entrepreneurs to identify gaps in the regional food system and provide opportunities for learning and growth. This essential work sustains small farms and small businesses, increases access to local food, and drives regional economic growth. Bike the Barns brings hundreds of active and engaged people to our region’s rural farming communities and shines a spotlight on their hard work, passion and commitment. 

Finally, Bike Adirondacks owner Doug Haney worked with ANCA to provide a safe and comfortable riding experience in difficult weather conditions. Doug’s expertise in cycling events is exceptional, and we appreciate the fun and enthusiasm he brings to Bike the Barns!  

Thank you to all who came out for this year’s Bike the Barns. We hope you enjoy a few photos, courtesy of ROOST, of the finish-line party under Ausable Brewing Company’s cozy pavilion.