Just when summer’s calendar felt full, WalkBikeAndover has given families another reason to mark their planners: the beloved Pomps Pond Family Bike Ride has been rescheduled for Saturday, July 19. The original June 14 event was postponed due to an unusually cold forecast, but organizers are eager to make up for it with a warm, community‑friendly outing.
Riders of all ages and skill levels are invited to meet at 9:45 a.m. at The Gazebo at The Park, located at 34 Bartlet Street. The group departure begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. WalkBikeAndover will provide light snacks and drinks both before and after the ride.
The leisurely two-mile roundtrip winds through quiet Andover streets before arriving at Pomps Pond, where families can cool off with a swim or enjoy playground time at their own pace. Though the main ride is guided, participants will need to handle their own admission—day passes are available on-site ($5 for Andover residents, $10 for non-residents, cash only), with season passes purchasable ahead via the Andover Recreation website.
Organizers note the ride is not officially sanctioned and participants will ride at their own risk, adhering to standard traffic laws. There’s no organized return ride, but riders are welcome to form their own groups for the trip back.
WalkBikeAndover is a resident-led advocacy group dedicated to making walking, biking, and rolling safer and more accessible across Andover. Their Pomps Pond ride is one of several community-building events, and a great opportunity for families to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and connection before fully diving into the summer season.
Event at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Meet-up location | The Gazebo at The Park (34 Bartlet Street) |
| Arrival time | 9:45 a.m. |
| Ride begins | 10:00 a.m. |
| Destination | Pomps Pond (~2 miles away) |
| Admission | $5 resident / $10 non-resident, cash on-site; season passes available online |
| Included | Snacks & drinks before & after the ride |
| Return | Self-arranged departures |
Why You Should Go
- Family‑friendly: The pace is easy, and the route is short—perfect for kids.
- Healthy & fun: A great way to kick-start summer with fresh air, exercise, and community.
- At your own pace: Once at Pomps Pond, you’re free to swim, explore, or relax with loved ones.
How to Prepare
- Bring your own bike (properly tuned and ready to ride).
- Wear a helmet—required for all riders under 16, strongly recommended for everyone else.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a towel or swimsuit if you plan to swim.
- Bring cash for day-pass admittance, unless you’ve already purchased a season pass.
For additional questions, reach out to WalkBikeAndover at walkbikeandover@gmail.com or check their events calendar. Stay connected with local biking and walking initiatives and community events.