Bike tour through Stewart forest

NEW WINDSOR — The Stewart Park and Reserve Coalition (SPARC) is hosting its 14th annual mountain bike tour through the Stewart State Forest lands on Sunday, June 2.

SPARC led the 20-year fight to preserve these lands for the enjoyment of all in perpetuity. "These lands are our gift to Orange County," a SPARC release says.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. for through course levels, including an easy family ride, a beginner trail ride that goes off the old roads and into the woods, and an intermediate/experienced course of more than 18 miles.

The event includes lunch featuring pasture-raised beef hamburgers, Soons pies, Blueberry Mountain ice cream, Newburgh Brewing Company beer, and much more. Other highlights include a nature table and maybe a short walk or two. Breakfast is bagels, coffee and fruit. Those who pre-register are guaranteed a screen-printed T-shirt.

Fees are $25 for preregistration, $35 on the event day, and $15 for kids 14 and under.

For more information call 564-3018, email sparc@frontiernet.net, or visit www.SPARCride.com.