Sculpture Park, Ti Ferry, a Steep Climb, and a Star Trek Museum Tour

Outdoor sculptures are fun experiences.

As August weather cooled this summer, I was inspired to get on with my proposed trips. I pictured this 3-event adventure as an Amtrak overnight, but weekend weather hadn't been conducive. Instead, we packed everything into one day, driving first to Lemon Fair Sculpture Park (on a busy road), later parking in a small town to tackle the rest by bike. 

The sculptures are composed by multiple artists exhibiting their work. We walked a mown trail through a hayfield, sending grasshoppers jumping everywhere! I was drawn to several works: shiny, hammered metal ones, and especially the quad of horses, from lattice depictions to full body to the foreground mixture of both.

The ferry route is the longest running crossing of Lake Champlain, dating to 1759.

On the Vermont side of Lake Champlain, we boarded the Ticonderoga cable ferry, crossing narrow water, then pedalled a few more miles into the small town. It was getting hot.

Ending the one-hour tour on the Bridge!

While not a Trekkie, per se,  I've wanted to visit the Star Trek Museum per rave reviews. The owner has reconstructed the original season film set from plans, and as we later learned, had altered some things to make it more authentic, due to changes observed on film. We barely made the reserved timeslot, showing up sweaty!

A knowledgeable tour guide walked a small group around the set, explaining everything from how they filmed to the intricacies of backdrop decorations gleaned from the studio's stockpile (that appear in other TV shows!). What struck me the most was the flimsy walls, open ceilings, and rooms that were configured to represent multiple rooms on the Star Ship. Other interesting notes: Lucy and Desi Arnez studios financed the first three original seasons (I think?) - because filming Sci-Fi was expensive. The public clamored for more, and thus the reruns propelled the original cast and shows to stardom. I am of that generation, watching in the 1970s. In the lobby, there are many original outfits, plus the museum hosts special screenings on the Bridge. And maybe best of all, cast members show up each year - William Shatner, in his 90s, came last fall. 

Well worth the visit!

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Pressed for time, and not knowing how long it would take us, we climbed the 500ft road to Mt. Defiance. It was tough! We also were low on food and a bit dehydrated, but we made it. The breeze cooled us. What a view and strategic overlook of Fort Ticonderoga on the flat peninsula below.

Mt Defiance is notable because British General Burgoyne's army in 1777 built the road to place artillery overlooking both Fort Ticonderoga and Fort Independence, (located on what's now the Vermont side). The same road that's now, thankfully, paved!

The descent tested my brakes, but it seemed only a hot minute back to the entrance.

We discovered a food coop - who knew? - in tiny Ticonderoga village. Refreshed and satiated, we ferried back and arrived at our car in less than 10 miles.

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!

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.

Branching Out - More Local Riding Adventures

Bassi Rachel in her home environment, her curves blending in with a water-themed railing along the Saint Lawrence River.

Much like earlier in 2023, we're making an effort to ride in different areas. With the Canadian border an easy crossing, we headed to Montreal, pedaling a much-loved route: riding the Lachine Canal then looping back through the wonderful parks and trails along the Saint Lawrence River.

Free parking on the street means documenting where you left the car!

Nearby, I spotted another purple fade Specialized specimen - likely a similar year to mine.

I loved this art installation.

We hung out to watch a lock in operation.

LVRT- Cambridge to East Fairfield and back.

In Vermont on a solitary ride, I pedaled out and back on a newly re-opened section of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. 

My husband and I hope to tour the entire 95 miles, once the whole trail is repaired from July's devastating floods.

This trail will be a treasure to locals and tourists.

Another adventure included a friend, biking from our house, and looping Grand Isle.

Purple asters were gorgeous on the roadsides.

I've ridden portions of the island but never a complete circumnavigation. There were stunning vistas on West Shore Road and East Shore Road of Lake Champlain.

Our friend Catherine, who would later join us in Canada.

Close to home, mountain bike forays included lovely mossy meanderings... 

discovering safer features over an irrigation pipe...

and the beginning of fall color.

September and October have made up for a hot, humid, and wet summer. There's so much more to explore!

The New 3-Ferry Bike Overnight

On Columbus Day Indigenous People's Day weekend, we rolled out for an afternoon ride, the easy segment, crossing two ferries, and eventually against a headwind as we made our way to the Ausable Campground in New York.

Last weekend of bike ferry operation.

Snacking at the Sam Champlain monument in Plattsburgh, New York.

Interesting to spot the Empire State Trail signage. This is part of a bike route from Montreal to New York City.

The brisk, but sunny weather, of course, was spot on for the culmination of bike ferry service and campgrounds still open. We felt lucky in many respects; the colorful foliage was more advanced on the New York side than anticipated.

A pick of tent sites, we chose a grassy, large area close to the bathhouse.

After 35 miles and one surprise steep hill at the end, we made it by 4 pm. With early darkness, we had called ahead for reservations, confirming the use of an indoor space, allowing evening comfort before retiring to the tent. A well-lit and heated laundry room with table and chairs was a perfect solution.

We came back the following weekend with our mountain bikes and explored the trails. They were easy for a beginner to complete 10 miles.

Unbeknownst to us, the campground was surrounded by a system of mountain bike trails! We saw many riders weaving through the woods, eventually exiting to their camp site.

The second day was difficult, both of us not having ridden this hilly section in several years, especially hauling a loaded bike. The foliage distracted us, however, and each turn revealed a beautiful view, a lovely farmhouse, or brook. I have developed a different strategy regarding steep terrain: if my pace is equivalent to walking, then I walk to baby tender knees. It also gives my backside a break. My husband eventually joined me in this practice, though I could tell it hurt his pride. But I think he understood the wisdom in what I was doing.

I call this route the new 3 ferry loop because the Burlington-Port Kent ferry has ceased, due to lack of ridership. The route used to be 45 miles of mostly flat or gentle hills, easily ridden in one day. By using the Charlotte-Essex ferry further south, the loop has extended to 80 miles. The new route is better as an overnight, especially with the addition of hillier sections. 

These Lake Champlain loop rides are very scenic and worth making the extra effort. And what's not to like? Any time I can do a bike overnight, I feel over the moon.