There’s a brand-new way to take in the beauty of Cattaraugus County, and it’s unlike anything else in the region.
Revolution Rail, a railbiking company known for its pedal-powered excursions, has rolled into town this month with a hidden gem: a six-mile round-trip ride along long-unused railroad tracks.
For the first time in decades, families can pedal their way through the breathtaking scenery of Zoar Valley — an area otherwise completely inaccessible.
🚲 Quick Guide: Railbiking in Cattaraugus
Location: Village of Cattaraugus, just minutes from Ellicottville
Check-In: RocketCup Coffee, Main Street Cattaraugus
Route: 6 miles round-trip (3 miles out, 3 miles back)
Duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Stops: 1 scenic turnaround stop with picnic tables + history talk
Difficulty: Gentle pedaling with a few inclines and gliding sections
Ages: Recommended for all ages
🍂 Fall Preview Dates
- October 3–5
- October 10–12
- October 17–19
Bookings are open and space is limited — reserve your railbike early!
@rocketcup_coffee This weekend at Cattaraugus! @Revolution Rail Co. #cafe #cattaraugus #fyp #revrail #trending ♬ original sound – RocketCup Coffee
What to Expect on the Ride
Your experience begins with a check-in at RocketCup Coffee in the Village of Cattaraugus, a perfect spot to grab a coffee or snack before the adventure begins. From there, it’s just a short walk to the historic tracks where you’ll hop on your railbike.
As you pedal, you’ll take in the quiet beauty of the woods, catch glimpses of Cattaraugus Creek, and soak up stunning views of Zoar Valley.
At the three-mile turnaround point, riders can enjoy a peaceful break at picnic tables while guides share fascinating local history and lore. Then, the bikes are spun around for the return trip.
This outing is the perfect blend of gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxation — ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a unique way to connect with nature.
“The only way to see this part of Cattaraugus County is actually by rail.”
RoBert Harte, Revolution Rail Owner
Boosting Local Business
Robert Harte, Revolution Rail owner, believes the railbike rides are more than just a fun outdoor activity — they’re a chance to bring visitors to town.
“By having these rail bike rides, we’re bringing people who wouldn’t normally visit this area,” he said in an interview with WBKW in Buffalo. “Then they might go to the coffee shop afterwards, grab lunch, stay at a local hotel, or get gas here. It’s all connected.”
That connection is exactly what Tom Cullen, owner of RocketCup Coffee, is excited about. His café is partnering with Revolution Rail as it celebrates its second anniversary.
“This is a big deal toward revitalization in our community,” Cullen told WKBW.
RocketCup Revolution RailFest
To celebrate, RocketCup is hosting the RocketCup Revolution RailFest this weekend, a community event that brings together residents, visitors, and local leaders.
It marks both RocketCup’s milestone anniversary and the preview launch of the new railbike route.
“We believe we’re creating a model for revitalization that could be used across the country and even the world,” Cullen said in the WKBW story. “It’s starting here in Cattaraugus.”
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