The 3rd Annual Bike the Brandywine is almost here! Enjoy this sneak peek of the day including details about each distance, the post-ride party, and a few other FAQ’s!
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80 Mile - Highlights
Enjoy the complete Bike the Brandywine experience! Following both the East and West Branch of this historic and scenic waterway, the 80-mile loop will guide you from Chadds Ford all the way to the river’s headwaters in bucolic Honey Brook Township. The route returns to Chadds Ford along the East Branch of the river. Along the way riders will experience countless views of the Brandywine, bucolic landscapes, rich history, and active farmland, some of which the Brandywine Conservancy has helped preserve for future generations. Come along with us on a ride that will stimulate the senses and foster an appreciation of our shared natural and historic heritage.
The specifics:
The 80-mile route features around 4,500 ft. of total elevation gain, with most of the climbing coming in the middle of the ride after you have warmed your muscles. The first 12 miles are essentially flat with the route following the West Branch Brandywine Creek. The final 20 miles include a nice long downhill section with only some minor bumps in the final 15 miles. This premium Brandywine experience features 4 well-stocked rest stops along the way at miles 15, 36, 55, and 71, and include picturesque stops at places such as Hibernia County Park, Springton Manor Farm, and the historic village of Marshallton.
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45 Mile – Highlights
The 45-mile route provides riders looking for a shorter Brandywine experience a scenic route that follows the West Branch of the river. Also starting in Chadds Ford, this route traverses the same roads as the 80-mile route until just after rest stop one at mile 15. From rest stop one, the 45-mile route passes through King Ranch country on its way to Modena, passing through one scenic covered bridge on its way. From Modena the ride rejoins the West Branch Brandywine Creek and slowly winds its way to the historic village of Marshallton before returning to Chadds Ford.
The specifics:
The 45-mile route features just under 2,800 ft. of total elevation gain, with most of the climbs contained in the middle of the ride. Again, the first 12 miles are flat, allowing you time to warm up before hitting the climbs, while the final five miles back to Chadds Ford are also flat so you can appreciate the sense of achievement as you arrive home. Riders on this route will experience three well-stocked and friendly rest stops at miles 15, 24, and 37.
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25 Mile – Highlights
The 25-mile route provides an exciting introduction to the Brandywine Creek Greenway for the recreational cyclist. Closely mirroring the early routes of both the 80- and 45-mile routes, the 25-mile route follows the West Branch Brandywine River through open farmland and scenic river valleys. A route that provides a trip through the historic village of Marshalton and its surrounding equestrian and farming landscapes, this ride is sure to excite the senses of any cyclist.
The specifics:
The 25-mile route features just under 1,500 ft. of total elevation gain. Once again, the first 12 and final 5 miles are relatively flat. You’ll reach the highest point of your ride at the one well-stocked rest stop on this route in historic Marshallton at mile 15. From there you’ll enjoy some rolling hills through some beautiful countryside on your way back toy Chadds Ford.
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Post-ride Party
After your beautiful and exciting ride through the Brandywine Creek Greenway, we know you’ll want to catch up with friends, enjoy a cold drink, and refuel.
We’re excited to announce that Victory Brewing Company is teaming up with us again! We will be offering a delicious beer to each rider free at the finish. We'll also have root beer in case that's more your style.
We will also be offering a hearty complimentary lunch for each rider at the finish. So relax, have a drink, visit our fun selfie station and connect with other riders as a way to finish a day spent supporting the clean water and open space programs of the Brandywine Conservancy. Registration goes up to $65 on September 8 so make sure you’re signed up today!
