Of course you may always bring your own bike to Duke Farms, but it's nice to know that if for any reason you haven't brought your own ride you do have an option to walking the trails.
Be sure to ride over to see the Great Falls get turned on for the once-a-day show - last year it was scheduled at noon. The Easter Bunny will be bringing the Bikeshare back to Duke Farms this coming Saturday, March 26. We saw the tent and the bike racks going up during our hike there this past chilly Sunday.
This is welcome news for those wanting to take advantage of later sunsets and the park's longer hours (the fenced-in trails are now open 'til 6:00 pm).
You'll find the large bikeshare tent on Hay Barn Way, near the restrooms between the Old Hay Barn/statue garden and the large Victorian conservatory. Helpful signs will point the way so you'll know you are on the right track.
They have 60 bicycles available from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Duke Farms' staff notes that on weekends, there is a huge demand for this program and often all bicycles are in use by 11:00 am. At that point, you may have to wait for a bicycle to be checked back in again. They do not take reservations, and ask that users keep their rides to a 2-hour maximum to allow others to take advantage of the service.
Our own experience has been that this early in the season you should still be able to get one easily in the early afternoon. Once the weather warms up consistently though, better get in there after breakfast. I can recommend the uber-friendly Farm Barn Cafe located in the Welcome Center if you don't want to eat at home.
Adults may borrow the bikes for $5.00 (Credit/debit cards only - no cash) after signing a waiver and giving them your photo ID. Helmets are also provided with your rental fee, or you may bring your own. Either way, it's required to have one on your head before you ride away.
Note that because of the limited adjustability of their bikes, 'adult' is qualified to be those at last 60 inches tall. I only make that on a good day!
If you haven't done it before, be sure to fill out the electronic waiver form before your first rental, just to make things faster and easier.
Of course you may always bring your own bike to Duke Farms, but it's nice to know that if for any reason you haven't brought your own ride you do have an option to walking the trails.
For more info and the FAQ, see the Duke Farms Bikeshare website.