Phoenixville, Pa., May 2016 – Cycle through American history! The Iron Tour takes riders directly past preserved areas where iron blast furnaces and forges served as cornerstones of industry in colonial Pennsylvania.
The Annual French Creek Iron Tour is on Sunday, June 12, starting at the Kimberton Fire Company Fairgrounds, 762 Pike Springs Road (Rt. 113), Phoenixville, Pa.
The Iron Tour has distance options of 11, 20, 32, 50, 62, 75, and 100 miles. There’s something for every type of rider, from a short ride through breathtaking countryside to a century route that visits numerous quaint villages and historical landmarks. The start and finish location at the Kimberton Fire Company Fairgrounds provides an excellent launch into the gorgeous countryside and a great place to gather afterward for an included lunch.
The 11-mile ride is great for families and those reacquainting themselves with their bicycles. The 20-mile distance contains some hills and will take riders over two historic covered bridges. At the midway point for both rides, there is a rest stop at the charming village of Yellow Springs.
The annual Iron Tour raises much-needed funds for French & Pickering, with 100% of its proceeds going directly toward the preservation of open space in northern Chester County, Pa.
In its 14th year, the French Creek Iron Tour has acquired a good following among cyclists, and has earned a reputation for its first-class rest stops and delicious food. Last year’s Iron Tour had more than 1,400 riders.
History buffs get a new benefit to cycling the Iron Tour in 2016. The 4 longer routes will appreciate a rest stop at the Warwick Furnace Farm, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy the special experience of a place which features the ruins of one of the oldest blast iron furnaces in the country. This is Iron Country! George Washington marched his troops through the area where you will be riding. This site is now preserved forever by French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust. Plans for this beautiful property include a public nature preserve.
Registration will close at 1,800 riders or at 5 p.m., June 9, whichever comes first. Registration by May 27 is $45, and riders will receive a free t-shirt. After that date, registration is $55, with no t-shirt. There will be no day-of-event registration. Registration is non-refundable, and the ride takes place rain or shine.
For more information, contact Sara Painter, Director of Marketing and Development, by phone at 610-933-7577, or via email at spainter@frenchandpickering.org
