A small glimpse of the various memorials the cyclists paused at across New Jersey–each a unique tribute to the lives lost on September 11, 2001. | | | | | |
Riding in Remembrance: The 50–9/11 Memorial Tour
Earlier this month, from August 9 through August 14, cyclists embarked on the 50–9/11 Memorial Tour, a six-day cycling tour that honored 50 memorials across New Jersey. Beginning in Elizabeth and winding through suburban communities, the cyclists visited small-town tributes and major landmarks alike, from Hudson County's Tear Drop Memorial to Verona's 9/11 Memorial and Essex County’s Eagle Rock Reservation.
Each stop and memorial carried its own history and legacy, but together they reflected the depth of New Jersey’s commitment to honoring the lives lost on September 11, 2001. Participants covered more than approximately 250 miles, climbed thousands of feet, and experienced the diversity of ways communities remember, heal, and keep the promise to "Never Forget".
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| At Ground Zero, 9/11 first responder Tim Brown shared powerful reflections with the cyclists. | | | | | |
Tour de Trail: NYC – The Road to Ground Zero
The momentum continued on Friday, August 15, as the six-day 50–9/11 Memorial Tour through New Jersey concluded with the inaugural Tour de Trail: NYC, marking the beginning of a new tradition of remembrance and connection. An additional 25 cyclists joined the group as they set out on a 32-mile journey that carried them across the George Washington Bridge and through the streets of New York City, culminating at the solemn grounds of Ground Zero and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.
The ride paused for a special lunch at the iconic O’Hara’s Restaurant and Pub, where participants shared stories, reflections, and community in a space steeped in post-9/11 history. From there, the group continued to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, where Alliance Board Member Tim Brown, a 9/11 first responder and hero, led them inside with heartfelt remarks that brought even deeper significance to the day.
The ride concluded with a return ferry across the Hudson, offering participants a reflective moment accompanied by sweeping city views, the perfect close to a day defined by unity, discovery, and connection. Looking ahead, The Tour de Trail: NYC will return in 2026 as a special way to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001. Be sure to stay tuned and mark your calendar for this meaningful opportunity to remember, discover, and connect.
| | Riding in remembrance. Join the Alliance on the 9/11 Trail this year! | | | | |
Pedal with Purpose: Upcoming Events on the Trail
The September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance is looking ahead to a powerful season of events this fall, and there is still time to join! In September and October, cyclists will have the opportunity to take part in three meaningful events, each offering its own unique way to support the Alliance and connect with the history of September 11, 2001.
In September, cyclists with gather on Saturday, September 6, for the 7th Annual Tour de Trail: Flight 93 National Memorial ride, a moving 24-mile journey through the Pennsylvania countryside that features a visit to the grounds of the Flight 93 National Memorial.
Also in September, on Sunday, September 28, the Alliance will host the 3rd Annual Tour de Trail: Pentagon Memorial event in Arlington, VA. This event brings both cyclists and walkers together for a moving presentation at the Pentagon Memorial.
From October 23 to October 28, the Alliance will lead the Gettysburg Loop Tour, a six-day journey through central Pennsylvania and the historic landscape of Gettysburg. This extended ride blends scenic beauty with the powerful lessons of history, offering participants an immersive way to connect with both the 9/11 National Memorial Trail and the enduring story of resilience it represents.
The Alliance invites supporters, cyclists, and community members to explore the full schedule of rides below and take part in this season of remembrance and connection.
| | Use code 911NMTA to save $20 on Escape New York (9/13) – and support the 9/11 Trail with every mile. | | | | | |
An Additional Way to Support: Join Escape New York
In addition to the events hosted directly by the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance, cyclists can support the Trail by joining Escape New York, an annual ride organized by the New York Cycle Club (NYCC) on Saturday, September 13, 2025. This scenic, well-supported event winds through New York City and Rockland County, offering participants a chance to challenge themselves across distances ranging from 25 to 125 miles.
This year, NYCC has partnered with the Alliance to offer a special opportunity. Cyclists who use the code 911NMTA will receive $20 off registration, and in return, NYCC will donate $40 in their name to support the continued development of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail. Don't delay, register today and support the cause!
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Still Time to Order: Ride in Style for Upcoming Trail Events
As fall cycling events approach along the September 11th National Memorial Trail, the Alliance encourages participants and supporters to ride in style and solidarity with the official 9/11 Trail cycling jersey, produced in partnership with Aero Tech Designs.
Designed for comfort, visibility, and performance, the jersey helps raise visibility for the Trail and its role as a living memorial linking the three national 9/11 sites. Wearing the jersey during organized rides and community events serves as both a tribute and a tool for outreach, reinforcing the Trail’s presence and purpose.
The Alliance encourages event participants to consider wearing the jersey as a visible expression of our shared commitment to never forget September 11, 2001. A portion of each purchase supports the ongoing work of the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance. The jersey is available now through AeroTech Designs, and there is still time to order to ensure delivery ahead of upcoming summer and fall events.
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The September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance in the News:
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THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER
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"As a major employer, landowner and member of many communities across the Greater Mid-Atlantic region, WM continues to work for a more sustainable tomorrow. We are committed to making positive social impacts through environmental education and conservation. This allows us to dedicate resources to fund programs that make a difference in people’s lives," Chris Farley – WM Area Vice President.
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