Though I still have to work out a few wrinkles concerning the route back home (e.g. should I retrace my steps along the St. Lawrence R. or bike through the Adirondack Mts. in the US?) I’ve got the 6-day journey to the Atlantic all worked out.
For example:
Day 1: Ride 384 km., camp at Hope Mill Conservation Area about 20 km. east of Peterborough. Set up tent. Drink two cans of Guinness. Recycle cans. Sleep.
Day 2: Have oatmeal for breakfast, bike 370 km., camp at Voyageur Provincial Park on the Ottawa River between Ottawa and Montreal and only minutes from a ferry that will escort me safely to the province of Quebec early the following morning after another hearty breakfast (of oatmeal and raisins, of course).
For many bikers I’m sure it doesn’t sound like I’m travelling very far each day, that I must be a real slowpoke. And those who read a story about a recent trip to Alaska by 3 motorcyclists will know they averaged 550 km./day for 15 days compared to what will be my meager 350 km. for six days.
I’ll admit I don’t go as far and as fast as most riders.
It’s likely because I like to admire the scenery at an easy pace, stop at roadside picnic tables that appear along the way, brew a pot of tea, write a few notes about what I’ve seen, take several pictures to prove to myself and others that rare beauty awaits all patient travellers and reflect on where I’ve come from, where I’m going and why.
[One reason why I’m going to Halifax: To visit ‘The Sailor’ with another old sailor]
Trust me. After I get back and show you some of my 650 photos of Peggy’s Cove you’ll know why I like to go slow and enjoy the view.
[Please visit Cartoon in Progress at Four Mugs and a Crock for more about the upcoming adventure.]
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