BELFAST — With tourist season picking up steam, the Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad is offering a new way to view the area’s impressive scenery, with the June 17 grand opening of RailCyclers.

Event DJ and volunteer tour guide James Thomas, was in charge of the opening day celebration, which included raffles, music, giveaways, and popcorn.

While there was a large crowd gathered at City Point Station, much of the group departed on a train for a private event being held the same afternoon.

The railcycles, also referred to as bikes, are pedal powered and share the railway with the Belfast & Moosehead Lake trains, though never at the same time. They operate much like a tandem single speed bike, though the wheels are designed to ride the rails.

Thomas said that although the railcycles would typically operate Saturday after 3 p.m., the event meant people would have to wait at least another day for their chance to ride.

For anyone considering taking a trip by railcycle, Thomas said every single person who has been on the trip has had fun - himself included.

“I love it,” he said. “It’s really fun.”

Excursions see cyclers pedaling for 4.5 miles before turning the bikes around and heading back to City Point Station.

Given that they weigh roughly 100 pounds each, it’s fairly easy for most riders to turn their railcycles around, though guides are there to assist.

Railcycle trips run from May through October and would-be riders have their choice of time and day.

Rides take place Wednesday through Friday at 6:30 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday at 3 and 5 p.m.

Tickets for the rides are $30 per bike, or $15 if you don’t mind riding with the guide, and online reservations are required.

Pedalers must be at least 10 years old and there is a 250 lb weight limit per person.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com