The Lawrence Hopewell Trail (LHT) welcomed over 500 cyclists for its annual Full Moon Bike Ride, marking another significant increase in turnout for the popular event. Riders of all ages gathered at Mercer Meadows to experience the scenic 6-mile ride under beautiful moonlit skies. After a burst of fireworks lit the night sky, riders from near and far—some hailing from Florida and Texas—set off on their exciting journey.
Mercer County Executive Dan Benson welcomed the riders to Mercer Meadows Park and thanked those who made the Full Moon Ride possible, including the Mercer County Parks Commission. Benson spoke of his desire to develop additional Mercer County trails, giving access to more County residents.
This family-friendly Full Moon Ride featured live music, a DJ, glow-in-the-dark jugglers, and passages through meadows and wooded paths, creating a unique evening of outdoor adventure and community connection. S’mores, cooked over a wood fire, welcomed riders on their return to Rosedale Lake. Organizers were thrilled with the turnout, which grows yearly, reflecting the community’s increasing enthusiasm for healthy outdoor activities.
“The guiding vision for our trail is to help people travel safely by foot or bike and make new connections,” said David Sandahl, Board Chair of the not-for-profit Lawrence Hopewell Trail Corporation. “It is heartening to see so many people, from so many backgrounds, come out to enjoy the trail and each other.”
Proceeds from the event support LHT events and the ongoing maintenance and development of the LHT, which derives most of its operating revenue from donations. For more information about future events or the trail, visit www.lhtrail.org.
