By Kate Bartlett
Revolution Rail Co. launches in Cattaraugus County with a Launch Party on Saturday, May 9, at RocketCup Coffee. This unique outdoor attraction is expected to draw visitors from across the region to experience the railway and discover all the area has to offer.
Revolution Rail Co. offers rail biking adventures that combine outdoor recreation with scenic exploration. Robert Harte, CEO and founder of Revolution Rail Co, started the company in 2017 in the Adirondack Region as a passion project. “I always had a love for railroads,” explains Rob. “I saw potential along the Hudson River and it was a big success.” Rob’s hobby became a full-time career, as the original location is going into its 10th season. He now owns and operates 9 locations across the county: 5 locations in the Adirondacks, South Fork (CO), Cape May (NJ), Dedham (ME) 45 mins from Bar Harbor, and now Cattaraugus.
Revolution Rail Co. will officially launch its newest rail bike experience, the Cattaraugus Run, in the Village of Cattaraugus on Friday, May 9, introducing the area to this unique outdoor attraction. The new experience allows riders to reserve two- or four-seat rail bikes and travel three miles into the scenic Zoar Valley, offering elevated views nearly 400 feet above Cattaraugus Creek.
The ride blends light physical activity with immersive access to one of Western New York’s most striking natural landscapes, giving riders a rare opportunity to reach deep wilderness in a short amount of time. The rides are appropriate for all ages and ability levels. “We encourage everyone to go at their own pace, allowing space between riders,” explains Rob. Each ride provides a break at the turn-around point with the opportunity to eat, drink and recharge while learning a bit about the railway.
Revolution Rail Co launched a limited pop-up event in the area this past October with an overwhelmingly positive response. “We couldn’t have asked for a better launch,” remarks Robert. “We are so excited to bring this to the area, and we’re thrilled with the support thus far.” Every weekend of rides sold out in under six hours for the entire month.
Visitors traveled from as far as four hours away to participate, signaling strong regional interest in the experience. “This is one of the most exciting additions we’ve seen in our community,” said Mayor Anthony Nagel of the Village of Cattaraugus. “Revolution Rail delivers an experience that exceeds expectations, drawing visitors from across the region and giving them a reason to stay, explore, and come back. This is exactly the kind of momentum we are building in Cattaraugus, and why we’re proud to welcome Rev Rail to our village.”
The Cattaraugus Run is expected to support ongoing downtown revitalization efforts by bringing new visitors into the Village of Cattaraugus and the surrounding area, benefiting local businesses and strengthening the region’s position as a destination for experiential travel.
To mark the official opening, Revolution Rail Co. will host a community launch event on May 9 in collaboration with RocketCup Coffee Company, located at 18 N Main Street in the village of Cattaraugus. The celebration will take place at RocketCup’s Speakeasy, Roastery, and Beer Garden, creating a full-day experience that blends outdoor adventure with food, drink, and live entertainment. Guests can enjoy local craft beers, specialty cocktails, and fresh-brewed RocketCup coffee, all set against the backdrop of the newly launched rail bike experience. The event will feature two live bands performing throughout the day from 2-5pm and 6-8pm, adding to the festive, high-energy atmosphere.
Robert is excited to be partnering with Tom Cullen at RocketCup Coffee to create this experience. RocketCup Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster based in Western New York, focused on revitalizing communities through roasting the top 5% of coffee. With a growing national footprint through its Cafes, College Coffee line, and wholesale partnerships, RocketCup is redefining how people experience coffee.
“Revitalization used to be something we talked about. Today, we’re living it. And the Revolution Rail experience is unreal. It’s a game changer for our whole area,” said Tom Cullen, RocketCup Coffee owner and Revolution Rail Cattaraugus station manager.
This event is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring friends, and enjoy a full day of music, coffee, and community.
For more information, visit revrail.com, rocketcupcoffee.com and follow on social media.