Honestly, I’m a little embarrassed to tell you about today. But here goes... I left the hotel early, knowing it would be another scorcher. I found the trail to the Walkway Over the Hudson, with a little help from one of the locals. What I did not realize, is that there are two rail trails that start at the same place: the Dutchess Rail Trail and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail. Naturally, I got on the wrong one and rode for 10 miles before I figured it out (this is starting to sound familiar, isn’t it?) Normally, this wouldn’t seem so bad. It was a beautiful ride, and I enjoyed it. But it meant 20 extra miles added to my already-ambitious schedule for the day. I had a tent site reserved in Cuddebackville. I realized there was no way I could make it there, not in 90 degree heat.
After speeding back to my starting point, I made a phone call to the campground and pushed my reservation to tomorrow night. I got a room in New Paltz. With that out of the way, I was able to fully enjoy the ride over the Walkway. It was pretty incredible. I took some pictures, but I kept worrying about dropping my phone over the edge. Wish I didn’t worry about stuff so much. I got up this morning, once again feeling completely exhausted. No sleep at all. I haven’t had a decent night of sleep since I began this ride, and it’s really starting to show. Maybe that’s why I keep going the wrong way! Hmmmm....
Anyway, I really like New Paltz! I had lunch at a great place called Asian Fusion, and the bartender was very sweet and introduced me to a meditation app called Insight Timer. I can’t wait to try it. There’s a bike shop in town, and I really need to get a new seat for my bike and have some maintenance done on it. Looking forward to a day of riding in the right direction tomorrow, and I really hope it cools down a little. This heat is hot! I’m really enjoying biking through New York. It’s a beautiful state.
I'll never figure out the internet. I posted a reply to your blog earlier today and it never materialized. I'll try again.
ReplyDeleteMaking wrong turns is part of the process and what makes it an "Adventure" But your legs and butt will have a different opinion.
Sorry to here about your lack of sleep. Not good but it's just a light case of anxiety along with the excitement of it all. You're not in your element and it's normal. Hopefully you'll settle down and get some good rest soon.
New Paltz is a nice little college town. Some nice breweries, vineyards, and later in the season some great apple, berry picking. Not to mention great rock climbing which I did there back in the 70's before it became a fad and crazy crowded. Lake Minnewaska State Park has some nice hiking trails and a beautiful picturesque lake. Hope you make up for your lost time but I'm sure you figured in some down time along the way. Best and be safe!