NEWBURYPORT — Newburyport Livable Streets and Parker River National Wildlife Refuge are sponsoring the second annual Moonlight Ride on the Refuge on Friday, Oct. 18 (Rain date: Saturday, Oct. 26). This is a special after-hours event when vehicles are not on the road.
All levels of riders – adults, teens and families with children – are invited to enjoy the refuge by the light of a full Hunter’s Moon.
“We are excited to partner again with Parker River National Wildlife Refuge offering this experience to area residents. The ride last year was such fun and we are all looking forward to repeating it,” Newburyport Livable Street’s Sheila Taintor said.
Cyclists will gather in Lot 1 at the refuge between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. to unload bikes. The group will take off down the Refuge Road at 6:30 p.m. There will be two options: riding to the refuge subheadquarters for a 4.6-mile round trip, or riding all the way to the end of the paved road at Lot #4 (Hellcat Trail) for a 7-mile round trip. There will be hot cocoa for all at the subheadquarters courtesy of Chococoa Baking Company.
The Moonlight Ride reflects Newburyport Livable Streets’ mission of supporting the health and well-being of the community by promoting safe streets for walking and cycling. Providing a car-free evening for community members to bike on the refuge provides a unique after-dark experience in nature, and allows new or nervous riders to gain confidence safely biking at night, according to organizers.
Ella Weber, visitor services manager at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, noted that biking provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the sounds and sights of wildlife at night while reducing the impact of vehicle headlights.
“At this time of year, birds and other wildlife are engaged in fall migration. Research shows dark skies are essential and have a positive impact on animal migration and mating patterns,” Weber said.
“Bright artificial light can cause confusion and disorientation, which may lead to exhaustion or fatal collisions. This special event welcomes cyclists to learn about the importance of dark skies for people and wildlife. Come experience the unique darkness at the refuge,” Weber said.
Preregistration for the Moonlight Ride is required so that organizers can contact participants about any schedule changes. Detailed event information and a sign-up form are available at https://bit.ly/refugeride2024.
Newburyport Livable Streets is a local nonprofit dedicated to making streets safer and more comfortable for everyone.