This past weekend’s inaugural Portland Alley Pedalfest is a prime example of how working together, area communities can make southeast Kansas a destination for tourists.
The event was a coordinated bicycle ride across the area with Iola’s Riverside Park as its headquarters. The Portland Alley moniker capitalizes on our region’s history in the cement industry.
Participants rode various distances, with routes of 13, 25, 50, 75 and 100 miles.
About 100 cycling enthusiasts embarked from the park at 8 a.m. Saturday to enjoy the picture-perfect weather. The route included both the Southwind Rail Trail from Iola to Humboldt and the Prairie Spirit Trail from Colony to Iola as well as rural roads.
The 50-mile route proved the most popular, getting riders back to the park by early afternoon to enjoy the town’s amenities as well as time to rest up for an evening that included food vendors, a beer garden and live music back in Riverside Park.
The event included the best of all worlds. A healthy activity capped by food, entertainment and camaraderie.
Just a few years ago, an event such as Pedalfest would not have been possible.
What would have been the draw?
But because we now have the rail trail, word is getting out that the towns along its route are great places to come spend a morning or afternoon. It’s not unusual to see cars from Douglas or Johnson counties parked at the trailheads most any weekend.
The new trail system being constructed to the north and east of Elks Lake will easily gain recognition from the momentum begun with the rail trails. Those trails around the old cement quarry are more varied. Some will appeal, especially, to mountain bikers who like the challenges of peaks and valleys, twists and turns. Others will feel more comfortable tackling the trails on foot. The pristine waters of the quarry are a treat.
THE CREDIT of the development of the rail trails goes almost singled-handedly to Thrive Allen County, whose mission includes improving the health and wellness of Allen County residents.
That area businesses also benefit from the influx of tourists, is just icing on the cake.
— Susan Lynn
