First day of Silver Comet bike tour

After a late start my second big fall adventure is under way. The delay was finishing up some geekery with my brother. We both learned some things and in the end got the project done.

First day on the trail has been amazing. Scenery is gorgeous.

At one point I described it as "the blue ridge parkway but for bicycles". There are rolling hills all around while the rail trail remains basically flat. The largest grades on the path are for the numerous bridges and tunnels.



"Grade" is still relative as it feels flat compared to rolling hills of NC. Waylon makes a great inclinometer relaying the changes.



The trail is also well supported and well maintained. Every few miles there are bathrooms and water fountains. The trail is full of cyclists even on a weekday afternoon shortened by the coming fall. The stops are very cyclist friendly with picnic tables and bike racks. This particular bike rack was handy for repacking. In an absent minded moment I packed heavy items in the backpack and light items in the panniers. I was beginning to question my own ability for 50 miles a day until I figured out this logistical flaw.



The facilities are little stepford-wife consistent in design but the amenities, especially running water, are welcome.



My favorite feature may be posts, perfect for relaxing in the waning sun.



The fountains hold great potential. For now they are great stonework.



Shortly after this we even got a chance to try out our jackets and lights (thank you Rebecca!). One by one we added vests, sleeves, bike front lights, head lamps, and finally tail lights for visibility on roads enroute to the hotel. All worked really well. I was really happy that part of contingency plans worked out well. We could see in front of bikes, in any direction we turned our heads, and were very visible to passing cars in the darkness.


The trail alone makes a great trip but the people have thus far been an unexpected surprise. My inner introvert must also be on vacation. I had no less than a half dozen conversations with complete strangers today. We picked up great tips about the trail, restaurants, supplies, gear, and hotels; all quite accidentally. Special thanks to Soli for the great dinner, hotel recommendation, and breakfast pointers. Good luck to your sun with MIT! The blizzards were great too.



I hoped for 50 miles of trail today but I'm delighted with 30 something and many great experiences.

Only things forgotten so far are full fingered gloves and heart rate monitor strap. All can be done without.

First day of bike touring is nearly complete success. Good gear, good contingency, a little light on miles covered, but safely and comfortably from point a to b, fed, and tucked into comfy lodging.

Here's hoping for a good tomorrow.

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