Cross Vermont & Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) 7 Day Adventure

Day 1 - Cross VT & LVRT, Home to Little River State Park in Waterbury. 45 miles

My husband planned a cross-state touring loop, using the Cross Vermont Trail and the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT), then unfortunately couldn't join me, due to a recent injury. Last minute, I figured out how to carry the tent and left - uniquely this route starts/finishes from home - and on my birthday, no less! Canadian wildfires have affected air quality, plus most of my allotted vacation time was forecast to be hot, but I felt compelled to start the trip as I'd been looking forward to it. The beauty of this adventure, unlike any other, is that I wouldn't be too far from home, should it not work out.

The first day's miles were mostly familiar, though camping at Little River State Park, in the overflow spot reserved for cyclists, was a delight. I swam in beautifully clear lake water, a break from the heat. The poor air caused a sore throat, but it disappeared once I had stopped riding.

Day 2 - Cross VT & LVRT, Little River State Park to Montpelier. 15 miles

 

The next morning, just as I was ready to leave, it started raining. Scrambling to protect my gear, I repacked panniers lined in garbage bags, including covering the front rack. I wore a poncho, more breathable than rain gear in the heat. Unfortunately, I only made it to Montpelier when it started to pour - definitely wasn't in the forecast! I took refuge at Capital Grounds, the local coffee shop. It was then I decided to call it quits for the day after consulting the radar. I planned to find indoor accommodation, and talked with my husband, who offered to bring me home, then drove me back the following day, after cleaning and drying all my gear. Vacation time is precious and I never want it to be a suffer fest, plus I had built in a few extra days should foul weather occur.

Day 3 - Cross VT & LVRT, Montpelier to Ricker State Park. 25 miles

I loved the third day! Following my intuition, I bypassed a listed detour on Route 2 - the hill looked ominous - and returned to the Wells River Trail in Plainfield. Again, a one mile section, noted, before advised to rejoin the busy road, yet a runner said I could continue on the wooded trail. Another junction, a trail snaked around a short, signed private driveway, then the rail trail continued on, completely skipping miles of pavement! It was a 20 mile wooded climb, and an eventual intersection with Ricker Pond Campground. The swim felt delightful.

Day 4 - Cross VT & LVRT, Ricker State Park to Danville. 23 miles

 

The fourth day was brutal, climbing and descending hot pavement through small towns, eventually topping out in Danville, where the following day I'd turn west on the LVRT. I walked several steep sections. I was done riding by noon - clearly not in hill-shape - relaxed at the campsite, then spent the afternoon in the pool. 

Day 5 - Cross VT & LVRT, Danville to Jeffersonville. 56 miles

Oh my goodness, what a lovely wooded ride, descending for two hours, admiring Queen Ann's Lace and Black Eyed Susans! Each day of this journey has been unique. I planned to camp with my husband that night, so we arranged that I'd ride extra miles so it would position me better for the following day. It all worked out and we spent a lovely evening in a lean-to at Elmore State Park - up a two-mile hill I didn't have to climb.

Day 6 - Cross VT & LVRT, Jeffersonville to Alburgh. 39 miles

My husband rode with me a few miles on day 6, before turning back. The climbing was gentle, I took my time, enjoyed open fields, short wooded tunnels, and tried to avoid a few chipmunk holes pockmarking the gravel surface. I hit one, thankful for my cushiony tires. The Hard Rock has been a comfortable companion, clearly cut-out for dirt rail trail riding. By day's end, I made it Alburgh RV Resort, and camped beneath a tree canopy.

Day 7 - Cross VT & LVRT, Alburgh, VT then, southward through New York, then home, using two ferries. 52 miles

I had positioned myself for a 7th day tailwind ride - in cooler, dry weather - south along the New York shoreline, a place I hadn't ridden in nearly 20 years. It was beautiful! I took two ferries and my husband met me for the last 10 miles home. He'd supported my journey and was always with me in spirit. I'm thankful for this incredibly inspiring loop.

Favorite new touring items: Arm sleeves for sun protection and warmth, plus adding a lightweight sleeping mat that doubles for yoga stretching and extra comfort beneath my air mattress. 

Slow Rolling with Adele - Lodge Life, Restaurant Finds, and Garage Sale Adventures

Adele and I know how to have a good time. Dating back to the 2014 inaugural Tour Du Ticonderoga, we've been touring annually, except for a hiatus during the pandemic. Recently, I made a last-minute weekend lodge reservation, and Adele was game! 

As the one-way trip would be only 25 miles, we left from my house, easily boarding the Causeway Bike Ferry just a few miles later. Behind a line of folks exiting the ramp to get on the path, someone ahead shouted, "Hold it! Mink family incoming!" We stopped to watch a momma mink with a youngster in her mouth, and two other young following behind as they all scampered by us down the gravel path, then dove into the bushes. What a treat!

Return trip the following day, waiting for the bike ferry. There's a story behind why I'm carrying tires on my rear rack...

We pedaled along the quiet roads of Grand Isle, crossed another ferry to New York through a hazy, smoke-filled afternoon, due to Canadian wildfires, then gradually made our way to Point Au Roche Lodge. The price was reasonable, with great reviews, and easy check-in. The hostel-style accommodation had a large kitchen, allowing you to bring your own food, while coffee and tea were also provided. We didn't see any staff. Our room was large, complete with a sitting room and a screened porch. What a great spot! 

On the deck at Doc's on the Water at Mooney Bay.

Typical Adele - foodie extroardinaire - had scoped out a restaurant ahead of time so we didn't need to bring dinner with us. It was a ten-minute walk and a lovely setting! We marveled at the marina view, tasty fish and chips, and the fact that we were on the same wavelength, ordering the same meal and drink.

We stored our bikes for the night, out of sight, tucked into a corner of the lodge's gazebo.

The next morning, with caffeinated and snack-filled bellies, we ambled along a loop beside the lake, marveling at waterfront homes, lawn ornaments, and newly planted cornfields. A slight tailwind pushed us south along a back road, eventually returning to downtown Pattsburgh for Eggs Benedict at another Adele find: Campus Corner, a local's diner. Sitting on swivel stools, hustling waitresses, full plates of yummy food - everything one would expect from a diner.

Inside the Campus Corner diner.

Admiring Plattsburgh's historical homes and monuments.

26x2" 45 North studded bike tires - a cargo net comes in handy! Adele and I are on the Grand Isle ferry.

Three routes connect Plattsburgh to the Cumberland Head peninsula and the NY/Grand Isle, VT ferry: Two outer lakeside roads and an interior, more direct way with a segregated bike lane. We took the fast way the previous day, but upon return, I suggested a winding, scenic shoreline road (formerly the main route until the inner expressway/bike lane was built about 20 years ago). 

Adele had mentioned that it would be great to stop at garage sales. We think alike. On previous adventures, I found a nice watch, and my favorite earrings came from a secondhand store in Canada - all from previous trips with Adele. So it was fortuitous that the route I suggested, of course, was hosting a neighborhood garage sale!

As it was a Sunday afternoon, sellers were tired, and many included a curbside free pile. I was semi-interested in studded bike tires with little wear. I asked the price. "What would you offer?" They accepted $5 for both - a steal. Adele picked up a  free folding organizer bag. 

I don't think I've laughed this much on an overnight bike tour, in quite some time!

Riding Packed, Plowed Rail Trails

Last week's 16.5" dump on top of several packed inches plus drifts meant the snowblower had to clear one narrow corridor by shooting snow through the fence onto rail tracks.

It's been a wild one this winter, with regular snowfall and normal below-freezing temperatures. For the past 5 years, I've gotten used to frequent rides on a nearby, plowed rail trail. Until this year, trail coverage was thin or even clear pavement at times during typical globally warmed Vermont winters. This meant easy access with or without a studded tire bike. I could get used to this!

My tires are all over the place in thicker, trodden snow.

It's been tricky even with 1.75" studded tires this year. If the paths aren't cleared close to the surface, my rear tire, especially, fishtails, losing traction. I often need to put a foot down, which is all the more reason I ride a step-through bike. Bike handling is tough: hands loose on the bar, spin in low gears usually gains traction. It takes a toll on my body though. A 10-mile ride is plenty in these conditions and I rest between outings, sometimes for 3 days.

But watching the sunset over Lake Champlain; stars appearing in the sky; and solitude, keep me coming back for more.

The left, ice-lined area had the best traction. Note the ski tracks on the right. Burlington plows half the path in winter to allow other snow sports.

Yesterday's climb into the 30'sF created soft paths. Oddly, I sought out ice-filled lanes! The top layer had just enough grip, but smoother going overall. Go figure.

Often, the bridge connecting Burlington to my Colchester community loses its snow first. I think it's the lack of tree coverage. Note the ski tracks continuing across the bridge.

The Colchester side had the smoothest surface, cropped close to asphalt. There are few riders compared with walkers, so often snow is pockmarked and frozen - terrible to ride!

Is all this worth it? For an avid rider, yes. I like the challenge. The important thing is I'm safe and know my limits.

The Importance of Recording Annual Miles

December conditions in Vermont: snow covered bike path or clear after a big melt.

 
I keep track of annual bike mileage, generally, penning basic numbers into a date book, then transcribing them monthly into a self-made spreadsheet. It's not logged with accuracy though because I don't use a GPS specific computer  - Google Maps, and on occasion when I ride a unique route, Strava fills in the gaps, rounded to the nearest whole number. Most of my rides are repetitive and easy to count, so computerized tracking is rare and not the norm.

I have found consistent motivation to ride frequently upon computer shutdown at my home office - Work and home life balance has been important since 2020. Nothing like fresh air to crank out miles! I don't put much stock in the annual number, yet, if early December's total is close to a significant milestone, then I try for the end game. The result is wholly dependent on weather, bike path conditions - remember, I often ride in darkness - bumpy, packed snow is difficult and exhausting on studded tires, yet satisfying because cold is no longer a deterrent - I stay warm in 10-15F. Clear paths mean a faster 10-15 miles in 1.5 hours. With late December's big melt, I was able to surpass 3500 miles, treating myself to a well deserved restaurant lunch!

Coffeeneuring 2024 - More Gouache Exploration, Rides 1-4

 #1 Latte at Specs Coffee in Winooski. It's difficult to take art photos with a phone camera...the paper is white.

Learning to Paint with Gouache

In my twelfth year of the Coffeeneuring Challenge, I've been inspired by Mary's current theme: latte art.  I was successful with last year's simple mug art because I could focus on one image. I want to learn painting but not be overwhelmed by 7 complicated pieces of art. I struggle with what my style should be. Whimsical, realistic, detailed, or how about using unusual colors? I have enjoyed gouache's bold, flat colors so whatever I come up with it's sure to be colorful!

Since my theme requires latte art, I also see this year's challenge as a return to coffee shops. It's been since 2014! For many years, plus during the pandemic, I embraced the Coffee Shop Without Walls opportunities for it's flexibility, where I drank more tea because it was easier and I often went out after work where drinking caffeine was not feasible, nor were coffee shops generally open. Weekend outings are required, though I see this year as an opportunity to try other beverages. What's a cortado? Will I like matcha? One thing I know: a yummy pumpkin beverage is on the agenda. 

1. The Place: Specs Coffee in Winooski

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Latte
Observation: What a beautiful fall day! It was sunny and 55F. 
Total Miles: 16

Wouldn't it be great to request your own latte art? Since I didn't receive any, I painted my own. I also like the addition of a simple, colorful background

I tried out a double-thick poncho I'd created last year. It worked well - my rendition of Vermont chic.

That's my Peugeot on the right.

Wow, a chewy, airy donut!

2 . The Place: Scout Coffee on North Ave. Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 12

Drink: Chai Tea Latte
Observation: Another sunny day, chai apparently isn't served with latte art, but I created what I wanted to see!
Total Miles: 11

Meh, day-old almond croissant.

I like the misshapen mug rim.

The autumn colors were still brilliant, even evident across Lake Champlain in New York.

3 . The Place: Barrio Bakery in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 26

Drink: Cappuccino
Observation: Uber quiet shop. Weird vibe, so definitely wouldn't return. Tasty cappuccino. I bought a small bag of day old pastries.
Total Miles: 16

I need to go back to a simpler, one-color background. Painting is always a work in progress.

This was a tasty, grainy pumpkin latte.

Kru Coffee is one of my favorite coffee shops because of varied clientele, and old building location, with the most interesting art and lighting.

Coffee cup lights!

I stopped by to visit #2 son, who showed me his recent single-speed bike build. I thought 5 bikes in my own stable was sufficient, but I've lost count of how many he has.

4 . The Place: Kru Coffee in Burlington

Date: Saturday, October 27

Drink: Pumpkin Spice Latte
Observation: Kru is known for great pastries. Unfortunately, when I show up at noon they are sold out! A swirl of color in the cup instead of art. 
Total Miles: 12

Bike Overnight - Amtrak One Way, Castleton to Home

Double panniers and a Soma Lucas front rack proved the best setup on Rachel.

I'm always thinking of the next weekend overnight. What new destination motivates me? Should it be one-way or two? Use Amtrak or leave from home? Foremost, the decision hedges on a dry weekend forecast and secondly, where there's an open campsite. When these factors align, usually on Thursday, then I have two days to pack, leaving on Saturday. 

Roll to the station, and remove the front wheel on board.

In July, I decided to take Amtrak 2 hours south to Castleton, then ride north on rolling hills to Crown Point State Park, one of my favorite camping spots, then homeward the next day. And bonus: my husband wanted to drive and set up the tent, so I was excited to have company for the evening.

Smiling, hydrated, and riding over the safe, wonderful, and historical Champlain Bridge crossing.

I hadn't ridden this segment of the Lake Champlain Bikeways route for about 15 years, back when I looped the southern portion - from Burlington south. I have, however, stayed at the campsite periodically, twice on my own, and once with Adele. 

I disembarked Amtrak, easily put my bike back together and set off. Since I originally planned to camp on my own, I carried 4 panniers, everything but the tent, which in hindsight added some difficulty, yet I was determined to see it though. With nearly 50 miles ahead of me in mid 80's heat, I grabbed some food, and set off. The route was more hilly, of course, than I remembered, and needing to cut off elevation and snaking turns, Google helped straighten the route, through orchards, over a beautiful mountain, adding more dirt roads to the mix. I was tired and ran out of water (note to self, don't ever do that again), but my husband rode from the campground, lifting my spirits, giving me liquid.

I learned how well Rachel handles with 4 panniers, so they're keepers! No jostling, rattling, or unwieldly handling. I've used front low rider racks in the past on other bikes, but the bargain Soma Lucas worked perfectly. And I was reminded again of Rachel's sweet low gearing - she climbs mountains! 

We had a milk shake, and I rehydrated from the restroom, taking a much needed break, before crossing the amazing bridge to the campground.

The evening was very warm. We roamed the campground, discovered the Samuel Champlain monument was open to visitors - who knew? We climbed the claustrophobic, circular stone staircase to a spectacular pre-sunset view of the lake and bridge. What a treat.

I did myself a favor leaving the second set of panniers in the car on Sunday morning. After early showers, a cold front moved in, and the next 50 miles homeward, was lovely! Fortified with scones, plenty of water and gentle terrain (only a few hills), the return was pleasant on paved roads. Lots of farmland, orchards, old cemeteries, and mostly quiet roads. 

Feeling like myself on the second day, I took a long break to eat a big lunch before riding the last 20 miles. The thistle-like monsters towered over me on Greenbush Road in Charlotte.

I cruised the last flat miles on the Burlington Greenway, by the Amtrak station, until reaching home.

Inaugural Bike Overnight with the Specialized Hard Rock

 

In May I set out on an easy peasy 15 mile ride to meet up with my significant other for an overnight at a state park lean to. The goal was to see how the Hard Rock fared with camping weight.

My sleep system was piled atop the Jack the Bike Rack...

...with a homemade pouch strapped below. I have toured in the past with this rack, undermounting a couple items that ended up falling out on bumpy terrain using only webbing attachments. The pouch idea work better, and with daisy chain webbing surrounding the opening, the 4-hook cargo net secured both sleep quilt and pouch items in place.

The stuffed pouch rubbed a bit against one side of the V-brakes, so a little alteration is needed. However, this solution will provide added security and take advantage of the extra space beneath the rack.

I arrived ahead of my glamping partner and I was pleased at the private lean-to.

Chairs, cooler, good food, and beer - plus my guy - were welcome additions.

Packing up the dusty bike for the return ride home.

Enough pink for ya?

The trip was a success. I love when a simple overnight works out, you get to test gear, and miles of smiles is worth the simple getaway. Jack the Bike Rack works better on this older bike, keeping front weight low. As expected the Hard Rock handles touring weight just fine, and the cushy tires add a plush, comfortable ride.