Today didn’t turn out as I had planned. I had hoped to make it to Virginia, but didn’t. I’m halfway there though! If my math checks out, I’ve been averaging 35 miles a day. I had hoped for 50, but now that I’m biking stronger, maybe I can improve on that.
I found the Rock Creek Trail at Rock Creek Regional Park after being led in circles again by Google (they’re on my last nerve). What a cool place! People were doing everything there: playing volleyball, taking wedding photos, shooting bows and arrows, zip lining, and biking! It’s a beautiful place, and the trail was amazing. Once again, the weather was good. I was grateful not to have to use sunscreen because it was overcast. My map warned that this trail was “sporadically signed” and they were right. They also advised riding on the road in some spots because the trail is narrow and winding, but I didn’t mind it. I met a very nice man who was walking his dog. He had a Miami shirt on, and I said “That’s where I’m headed!” I’m always happy to get into conversations like that with friendly people (with friendly dogs). It really makes my day.
At one point, crossing a busy road, a car almost hit me. My walk light came on, and I started to go. Someone taking a right turn looked left to see if any cars were coming, and then just started to go. Lucky for me, he had quick reflexes and slammed on his brakes before he hit me.
Anyway, I was supposed to ride the Rock Creek Trail for 10 miles, and then switch to the Georgetown Branch. Only problem is, I couldn’t find the Georgetown Branch. I rode back and forth a few times, and no help was available this time, unfortunately. I had already ridden over 25 miles and Google said I had 30 miles left to get to Mount Vernon. It was too late in the day for that many miles, so I decided to stop in Bethesda.
I love Bethesda! It’s got tons of cool restaurants (choosing one was hard) and I like the vibe. This is another city I’d like to come back to and explore. I think I know how to get to the trail tomorrow, so wish me luck. So happy to be halfway there!
Katy happy to see you are in better spirits. You definitely got some good miles behind you, but it's not about putting miles behind you, it's about the good experiences those miles bring you which turn into great memories.
ReplyDeleteI'll never forgot meeting up with you and although life is unpredictable and can surprise us with unexpected curves in the road you make the best of it and appreciate the good along that cure. At the very least I got a good 50 mile ride in that day covering new territory and got to meet you. It's all good!
You must be in MD by now and ahead is some gorgeous country through VA, NC etc. What's amazing about our country is the vast differences between states from the people, the geography, climate etc. and there is no better way to experience it all than on a bicycle.
Please research UVA and UVB rays on overcast days. You still need sunscreen!
Best!
Thanks Gary. It was so nice to meet you too. (and I knew someone would call me on the sunscreen thing) :-)
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