Preface – I got the idea for this trip from Angie, who had done it a couple of years ago. Angie was who I rode the Katy Trail with, having met her on a Companions Wanted listing on Warmshowers.org. This time I went by myself, carrying food and camping gear to be able to stay on the trail. I think I got lucky by picking September to do it, because the weather ended up being spectacular. No rain except for a misting drizzle that did not even warrant a rain jacket. I thoroughly enjoyed riding this trail for several reasons. At 365 miles long, it fulfilled my desire for a longer adventure. The trail surface is varied, with much of it paved or crushed rock dust, but also has a fair amount of single and double track. The on road portions had wide bike lanes. The history of the Erie Canal is amazing! It was started in 1817, opened in 1825 and expanded in 1905-1918. Many signs along the way describe the engineering feats, life on the canal and the economic impact. Finally, the scenery was beautiful and the canal acted as a rope tying it all together.
Once again, I am updating my blog by copying my Facebook posts and adding pictures. Seems that is my style since FB works much better for uploading content and pictures on the road with many times weak cell signals.
First Post – On my way to Buffalo, NY to start riding the Erie Canal trail tomorrow. Staying in Pittsburgh with Edward, the bass playing half of The Living Street band. The other half, Nick, joined us for dinner at a really cool brewery located in an old gothic Catholic Church. Also walked to the Grandview, and the view was definitely grand of the city!
2 Wheeled Wanderer 