The weather is still good enough to have to post another late season ride!!
Last week, November 12th, was the latest ride that ThursdayBike managed to do, now it looks like Nov 19th will be the world record!! Usually we can be skiing by now, but looks like there is a delay in the ski season this year.... Might as well bike.
Let's do a local favorite: The Snowville Loop.
Clockwise via Center Conway and Asparagus Hill (its late in the season; what the heck, just walk it), Picnic on Crystal Lake in the sunshine! Return by 153 and Stark Road.
Starting out of Conway Village, the loop is 25 miles.
Starting out of the Eastern Slope Public parking lot it is 39 miles.
Start at 11:00 am out of Conway Village from the parking area behind the bank and Mountain Center Physical Therapy.
For those who are frustrated skiers and need to burn more miles, start riding out of the Eastern Slope parking lot at 10:30 and ride to meet the others in Conway Village.
Can't ride? OK - but come to the Pot Luck and eat and party:
End of Season Pot Luck
Traditionally, the ThursdayBike End of Season get-together was a Pot Luck AND a Bike Cleaning Party. Everyone brought their bikes, cleaning rags, Windex and Simple Green to clean up their bikes before putting the bikes away for the winter season. We gathered at someone's big, clean garage (Jackie/Lloyd, Roland/Bette, Del/Marilyn, Pat/John H. have been the past hosts) and transferred the dirt and grease from the bikes to our hands and shirts. Then - the eating began.
Last year, we agreed that the eating/drinking part of the evening was less work, so we just have a policy that you must either clean your bike before the party or promise to do it soon afterwards. I will pass out copies of the "Do-it-Yourself Guide to Bike Cleaning and Inspection" if you need one for this year's chore. It just makes sense to have a clean and tidy bike, with all the parts and troubles fixed before that first beautiful day in the spring when we hit the roads again!!
So, bring yourself and a guest and a appetizer, main dish or dessert and BYOB, too (no bikes required..) to the Pot Luck this year at Leslie and Warren Schomaker's home on Middle Mountain Trail overlooking Jackson Village and the Presidentials.
Please pass this info on to your biking friends who may not be checking the blog regularly these days!
Saturday November 21st
Ready to party at 6:00 pm
Directions: From Jackson Village, go up Black Mountain Road. Just after the Christmas Farm Inn, take a RIGHT onto Tin Mine Road. Go up the hill about a mile, then take a LEFT onto Middle Mountain Trail. Leslie and Warren live in the house at the end of the road.
Entertainment?? This year, so many riders have taken bicycling vacations that there must be a lot of great photos out there of happy cyclists. Will you share them with everyone???? You may also just send some of you and your family/friends cycling in the valley, as we all know we live in a fantastic vacation destination.
Email your favorite photos of your trip to marianneborowski@yahoo.com and include the location, date, miles, weather, names and # of participants and any other info or photo captions. Roland will use his cinematography skills once again to organize the photos and set the whole thing to music.
I hope to see you there!!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
North Fryeburg November 12th
Late Fall in the Fields of Fryeburg Harbor
There is no rest for cyclists as the weather is enticing us to continue our riding. Thursday looks fine for a late fall ride. Let's try North Fryeburg one more time. The sunshine should feel good!
We can ride around the potato, corn and turf farms then head up to the Stow Store and up to The Basin if we feel like it. We could vote and do the Kezar Narrows if riders prefer heading that way.
All the leaves are down so there are more views to enjoy!
Please scroll below for the information on the End-Of Season Pot Luck, Nov 21st
Start time 11:00 am ready to ride
Start Location: North Fryeburg, the park next to the Saco Valley Fire Station at the corner of route 13 and South Chatham Road. Do not park close to the fire station as the firemen need access to the station. Hurricane Mountain Road is still open.
Jackson and Bartlett riders: If you want to carpool, meet behind Grant's at at 10:15.
Miles: For the entire ride up to the Basin Campground: 33 miles, but there are many ways to make this shorter if you like.
Map:
There is no rest for cyclists as the weather is enticing us to continue our riding. Thursday looks fine for a late fall ride. Let's try North Fryeburg one more time. The sunshine should feel good!
We can ride around the potato, corn and turf farms then head up to the Stow Store and up to The Basin if we feel like it. We could vote and do the Kezar Narrows if riders prefer heading that way.
All the leaves are down so there are more views to enjoy!
Please scroll below for the information on the End-Of Season Pot Luck, Nov 21st
Start time 11:00 am ready to ride
Start Location: North Fryeburg, the park next to the Saco Valley Fire Station at the corner of route 13 and South Chatham Road. Do not park close to the fire station as the firemen need access to the station. Hurricane Mountain Road is still open.
Jackson and Bartlett riders: If you want to carpool, meet behind Grant's at at 10:15.
Miles: For the entire ride up to the Basin Campground: 33 miles, but there are many ways to make this shorter if you like.
Map:
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
End of the Season Pot Luck
Ride on Sunday, November 8th
The weather looks a good for a ride on Sunday! Sunny!! 58 degrees!!
Edith picked a great ride: Jefferson/Cherry Mountain
Meet at the tourist infomation gazebo in Twin Mountain (at the 4-corners traffic light at the intersection of routes 302 and 3).
Ready to Ride at 11:00 am
Total distance: 32 miles
Here is some info on the End of Season Pot Luck
Traditionally, the ThursdayBike End of Season get-together was a Pot Luck AND a Bike Cleaning Party. Everyone brought their bikes, cleaning rags, Windex and Simple Green to clean up their bikes before putting the bikes away for the winter season. We gathered at someone's big, clean garage (Jackie/Lloyd, Roland/Bette, Del/Marilyn, Pat/John H. have been the past hosts) and transferred the dirt and grease from the bikes to our hands and shirts. Then - the eating began.
Last year, we agreed that the eating/drinking part of the evening was less work, so we just have a policy that you must either clean your bike before the party or promise to do it soon afterwards. I will pass out copies of the "Do-it-Yourself Guide to Bike Cleaning and Inspection" if you need one for this year's chore. It just makes sense to have a clean and tidy bike, with all the parts and troubles fixed before that first beautiful day in the spring when we hit the roads again!!
So, bring yourself and a guest and a appetizer, main dish or dessert and BYOB, too (no bikes required..) to the Pot Luck this year at Leslie and Warren Schomaker's home overlooking Jackson Village and the Presidentials (Directions will be posted later).
Saturday November 21st
Ready to party at 6:00 pm
Entertainment?? This year, so many riders have taken bicycling vacations that there must be a lot of great photos out there of happy cyclists. Will you share them with everyone???? You may also just send some of you and your family/friends cycling in the valley, as we all know we live in a fantastic vacation destination.
Email your favorite photos of your trip to marianneborowski@yahoo,com and include the location, date, miles, weather, names and # of participants and any other info or photo captions. Roland will use his cinematography skills once again to organize the photos and set the whole thing to music.
I hope to see you there!!
The weather looks a good for a ride on Sunday! Sunny!! 58 degrees!!
Edith picked a great ride: Jefferson/Cherry Mountain
Meet at the tourist infomation gazebo in Twin Mountain (at the 4-corners traffic light at the intersection of routes 302 and 3).
Ready to Ride at 11:00 am
Total distance: 32 miles
Here is some info on the End of Season Pot Luck
Traditionally, the ThursdayBike End of Season get-together was a Pot Luck AND a Bike Cleaning Party. Everyone brought their bikes, cleaning rags, Windex and Simple Green to clean up their bikes before putting the bikes away for the winter season. We gathered at someone's big, clean garage (Jackie/Lloyd, Roland/Bette, Del/Marilyn, Pat/John H. have been the past hosts) and transferred the dirt and grease from the bikes to our hands and shirts. Then - the eating began.
Last year, we agreed that the eating/drinking part of the evening was less work, so we just have a policy that you must either clean your bike before the party or promise to do it soon afterwards. I will pass out copies of the "Do-it-Yourself Guide to Bike Cleaning and Inspection" if you need one for this year's chore. It just makes sense to have a clean and tidy bike, with all the parts and troubles fixed before that first beautiful day in the spring when we hit the roads again!!
So, bring yourself and a guest and a appetizer, main dish or dessert and BYOB, too (no bikes required..) to the Pot Luck this year at Leslie and Warren Schomaker's home overlooking Jackson Village and the Presidentials (Directions will be posted later).
Saturday November 21st
Ready to party at 6:00 pm
Entertainment?? This year, so many riders have taken bicycling vacations that there must be a lot of great photos out there of happy cyclists. Will you share them with everyone???? You may also just send some of you and your family/friends cycling in the valley, as we all know we live in a fantastic vacation destination.
Email your favorite photos of your trip to marianneborowski@yahoo,com and include the location, date, miles, weather, names and # of participants and any other info or photo captions. Roland will use his cinematography skills once again to organize the photos and set the whole thing to music.
I hope to see you there!!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Brownfield is Golden
Important Notice!! End of season Pot Luck Dinner will be 6:00 pm, Saturday, November 21st at Leslie Schomaker's home in Jackson. More details will follow - keep checking this blog for info.
Thursday, October 29th
The weather and the foliage should be perfect for a ride in the golden leaves of Brownfield!
The ride makes a loop in the trees with some rolling hills on the east side of route 5/113 near the Brownfield 5-corners. No mosquitos this time, guanranteed. On the return trip, there is a gradual climb for an excellent view from the top of Sam Brown Hill. The scenery on the way back down is beautiful! On the return, the ride overlaps with the Snowville Loop for about 2 miles - a downhill cruise near Asparagus Hill (does NOT include the hill; just smile as you ride by it!!).
Distance: The entire ride is 33 miles. It can be shortened to the "Brownfield is Beautiful" ride from the Maine Bike Rally for 18 miles (includes Sam Brown Hill viewpoint).
Start: Maine Visitors Information Center parking lot, just over the Maine border in Fryeburg, on the right side of Route 302 (the new building that looks like a railroad station). We will begin riding from there on Haleytown Road (new pavement!).
Be ready to ride at 11:00.
Car pool - If you want to carpool from the Bartlett Jackson area, meet at the Grant's parking lot at 10:00. Otherwise, see you at the Maine Info Center!
Here is the map of the ride:
Thursday, October 29th
The weather and the foliage should be perfect for a ride in the golden leaves of Brownfield!
The ride makes a loop in the trees with some rolling hills on the east side of route 5/113 near the Brownfield 5-corners. No mosquitos this time, guanranteed. On the return trip, there is a gradual climb for an excellent view from the top of Sam Brown Hill. The scenery on the way back down is beautiful! On the return, the ride overlaps with the Snowville Loop for about 2 miles - a downhill cruise near Asparagus Hill (does NOT include the hill; just smile as you ride by it!!).
Distance: The entire ride is 33 miles. It can be shortened to the "Brownfield is Beautiful" ride from the Maine Bike Rally for 18 miles (includes Sam Brown Hill viewpoint).
Start: Maine Visitors Information Center parking lot, just over the Maine border in Fryeburg, on the right side of Route 302 (the new building that looks like a railroad station). We will begin riding from there on Haleytown Road (new pavement!).
Be ready to ride at 11:00.
Car pool - If you want to carpool from the Bartlett Jackson area, meet at the Grant's parking lot at 10:00. Otherwise, see you at the Maine Info Center!
Here is the map of the ride:
Monday, October 19, 2009
Thursday, October 22nd
Ride is Cancelled
Enjoy the better weather tomorrow, and hopefully next Thursday will be good for ThursdayBike!
Enjoy the better weather tomorrow, and hopefully next Thursday will be good for ThursdayBike!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Thursday, October 15th, 11:00 am ride
Cold but Colorful Ride??
It may be cold for a ride, but very colorful! Today the view looking at the peaks covered in snow and the fall colors all around was spectacular. So, I think if we ride, it should be to see this wonderful mix of winter and fall. So, how about a ride up route 302 to the Willey House to enjoy the views?
The temperature will be in the low 40's, but sunny with very light wind. A warm day for cross country skiing or alpine skiing!! So just find those xc ski pants, jackets and gloves for the ride!
Meet at 11:00 at the Attitash parking lot ready to ride. The ride to the Willey House and return is 30 miles. We could decide to turn around sooner if needed!
It may be cold for a ride, but very colorful! Today the view looking at the peaks covered in snow and the fall colors all around was spectacular. So, I think if we ride, it should be to see this wonderful mix of winter and fall. So, how about a ride up route 302 to the Willey House to enjoy the views?
The temperature will be in the low 40's, but sunny with very light wind. A warm day for cross country skiing or alpine skiing!! So just find those xc ski pants, jackets and gloves for the ride!
Meet at 11:00 at the Attitash parking lot ready to ride. The ride to the Willey House and return is 30 miles. We could decide to turn around sooner if needed!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Thursday, October 8th: North Road
Fall Colors on North Road!
North Road should be stunning this week with this season's fall foliage!
Start at the usual spot in Shelborne at the intersection of North Road and Hogan Road, on the north side of the Androscoggin River, ready to ride at 10:00 am. To get to this point, drive north over Pinkham Notch on Route 16. Turn right at the intersection with route 2 in Gorham. Drive about 3 miles, and turn left onto North Road, just after a beautiful stone house and barn. Cross the river at the dam, and proceed about 1/4 mile to where North Road bears sharply right. Hogan Road, a dirt road with access to several trailheads, comes in from the left at this point, and there is a dirt parking area there.
The entire ride on North Road to the picnic area alongside the river in Bethel, and back, is 39 miles. The ride is not difficult, no notches! There are flat sections, sections of rolling hills, lots of scenery and occasional views of the river. Near the end, just before reaching Route 2/Route 5, there is a bike path that turns right at a red fire hydrant and goes behind the water slide park. The path goes for 1.1 miles, ending at a nice picnic spot (and porta-potty). If it is too chilly to sit and picnic, we can go to a cafe about 1/2 mile into town.
Shorter Options: Since the ride is out-and-back, you can decide when you've had enough and turn back to the parking lot: To Shelburne and back is 10.2 miles round trip. To the Gilead steel trestle bridge is 18.6 miles round trip. Or, to have fewer miles, but still join in on the eating and chatting in Bethel, drive to the Gilead bridge (Bridge Street), park there at the canoe parking area on the southwest side of the bridge, and join the riders there as they ride by on North Road at about 10:45-11:00. Starting at the bridge and riding to Bethel will give you a 20 mile round trip.
North Road should be stunning this week with this season's fall foliage!
Start at the usual spot in Shelborne at the intersection of North Road and Hogan Road, on the north side of the Androscoggin River, ready to ride at 10:00 am. To get to this point, drive north over Pinkham Notch on Route 16. Turn right at the intersection with route 2 in Gorham. Drive about 3 miles, and turn left onto North Road, just after a beautiful stone house and barn. Cross the river at the dam, and proceed about 1/4 mile to where North Road bears sharply right. Hogan Road, a dirt road with access to several trailheads, comes in from the left at this point, and there is a dirt parking area there.
The entire ride on North Road to the picnic area alongside the river in Bethel, and back, is 39 miles. The ride is not difficult, no notches! There are flat sections, sections of rolling hills, lots of scenery and occasional views of the river. Near the end, just before reaching Route 2/Route 5, there is a bike path that turns right at a red fire hydrant and goes behind the water slide park. The path goes for 1.1 miles, ending at a nice picnic spot (and porta-potty). If it is too chilly to sit and picnic, we can go to a cafe about 1/2 mile into town.
Shorter Options: Since the ride is out-and-back, you can decide when you've had enough and turn back to the parking lot: To Shelburne and back is 10.2 miles round trip. To the Gilead steel trestle bridge is 18.6 miles round trip. Or, to have fewer miles, but still join in on the eating and chatting in Bethel, drive to the Gilead bridge (Bridge Street), park there at the canoe parking area on the southwest side of the bridge, and join the riders there as they ride by on North Road at about 10:45-11:00. Starting at the bridge and riding to Bethel will give you a 20 mile round trip.
Longer Option: For those who might want another scenic 6 miles, there is a nice view loop in Bethel that can be added. It goes through town and up Paradise Road, returning on Vernon St. It is on the map, below.
CARPOOLING! To carpool, meet at the Grants parking lot in Glen at 8:45-9:00 if you can either take a bike or two in/on your car, or if you would like to join a carpool. Carpools will leave at 9:00.
For a map including the loop in Bethel, click either of the links below:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-gorham/854125488029482602
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Thursday, October 1st
Pumpkin Fest Ride
Thursday Oct 1st Ride to Pumpkin Fest!
Celebrate with Steve and Sally Swenson as they send off their Giant Pumpkin to the Fryeburg Fair! Again, Steve and Sally send an invitation to the ThursdayBike Group:
The 5th Annual PUMPKIN FEST, where? our yard, when? THURSDAY, Oct. 1st 10:00 -11:00 am.
"We want to extend an invitation to all Velo Club members and friends to attend THE 5th Annual Pumpkin Fest. Some of you will have received personal invitations, but it is open to all - rain or shine. We will have a band, a men's and women's chorus this year, Lilly, the singing dog and lots more. Feel free to arrange the Thursday ride on the 1st to stop by the house between 10 and 11: am. There will be coffee, tea, pumpkin munchies and VALET parking for bikes on the front lawn."
Steve and Sally Swenson 356-9021 388 Kearsarge Rd., North Conway
The Bike Ride will include a stop at the Swenson's for the event at 10:00. Here is the plan:
For the best downhill-all-the-way-to-the-car at the end of the ride: Start out of the Grant's parking lot at 8:45 am.
If it is too cold for such an early start, begin at the Eastern Slope Inn Public Parking area 9:50 am. Or just meet everyone at Steve and Sally's house at ~10:00.
After the festivities, the ride continues!! We will explore local roads in North Conway, Intervale and Jackson for a nice loop. We will ride toward Cranmore and take Old Bartlett Road to the North end of Kearsage Road, the Hurricane Mt Road down to Route 16. There, we turn onto Route 16A, riding up and down Town Hall Road and/or to Dundee Rd. We will ride Dundee to Jackson, coming down near Black Mt Ski area, then down to Carter Notch Rd, then stop to picnic at Jackson Falls. The downhill ride continues down route 16 back to the Grant's parking lot in beautiful downtown Glen.
So you wonder about Dundee Rd??? Yes, it has a stiff climb -- not long - but it is walkable and well worth the effort. This is a fabulous ride, and some walking on some dirt is part of the deal. Enjoy the start of foliage season in the woods up there. The ride down from the top of Dundee all the way back to the car is really scenic and you will smile all the way. It is a local classic!!!!
The total distance is 28 miles. If you want to shorten it, just avoid Dundee and do Town Hall Road up and back, then ride to the end of 16A back to route 16 and back over Stanley's Hill to the Dunkin Donuts.
I think we can get this in before the weather closes in on us!
Thursday Oct 1st Ride to Pumpkin Fest!
Celebrate with Steve and Sally Swenson as they send off their Giant Pumpkin to the Fryeburg Fair! Again, Steve and Sally send an invitation to the ThursdayBike Group:
The 5th Annual PUMPKIN FEST, where? our yard, when? THURSDAY, Oct. 1st 10:00 -11:00 am.
"We want to extend an invitation to all Velo Club members and friends to attend THE 5th Annual Pumpkin Fest. Some of you will have received personal invitations, but it is open to all - rain or shine. We will have a band, a men's and women's chorus this year, Lilly, the singing dog and lots more. Feel free to arrange the Thursday ride on the 1st to stop by the house between 10 and 11: am. There will be coffee, tea, pumpkin munchies and VALET parking for bikes on the front lawn."
Steve and Sally Swenson 356-9021 388 Kearsarge Rd., North Conway
The Bike Ride will include a stop at the Swenson's for the event at 10:00. Here is the plan:
For the best downhill-all-the-way-to-the-car at the end of the ride: Start out of the Grant's parking lot at 8:45 am.
If it is too cold for such an early start, begin at the Eastern Slope Inn Public Parking area 9:50 am. Or just meet everyone at Steve and Sally's house at ~10:00.
After the festivities, the ride continues!! We will explore local roads in North Conway, Intervale and Jackson for a nice loop. We will ride toward Cranmore and take Old Bartlett Road to the North end of Kearsage Road, the Hurricane Mt Road down to Route 16. There, we turn onto Route 16A, riding up and down Town Hall Road and/or to Dundee Rd. We will ride Dundee to Jackson, coming down near Black Mt Ski area, then down to Carter Notch Rd, then stop to picnic at Jackson Falls. The downhill ride continues down route 16 back to the Grant's parking lot in beautiful downtown Glen.
So you wonder about Dundee Rd??? Yes, it has a stiff climb -- not long - but it is walkable and well worth the effort. This is a fabulous ride, and some walking on some dirt is part of the deal. Enjoy the start of foliage season in the woods up there. The ride down from the top of Dundee all the way back to the car is really scenic and you will smile all the way. It is a local classic!!!!
The total distance is 28 miles. If you want to shorten it, just avoid Dundee and do Town Hall Road up and back, then ride to the end of 16A back to route 16 and back over Stanley's Hill to the Dunkin Donuts.
I think we can get this in before the weather closes in on us!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Thursday September 24th
Presidentials Panorama and Ammonoosuc River Ride
Crawford Notch to Wing Road (near Bethlehem)
The trees are beginning to turn colors up in the notches, so lets do a ride to get some of the best views New Hampshire has to offer. Looks like Thursday should be good for some panoramas! Also, we need to ride that fresh smooth black velvet pavement in the Fabyans-Twin Mountain area (they even paved the entire shoulder for us).
This ride has some familiar roads and some new ones to add to the ThursdayBike collection. The ride is similar to the ride that we have done west from Crawford Notch-Trudeau Road, but includes some pleasant riverside riding along the Ammonoosuc River as it winds from Twin Mountain to Littleton, circling the Bethlehem hill. For those of you who have cycled to Littleton from either Whitefield or from Twin Mountain, that climb into Bethlehem is always a chore. This route on River Road and Wing Road is an easy passageway around that hill.
The ride starts at Crawford Notch, at the Forest Service parking area on the left side of Mt. Clinton Road, 0.1 mile from its intersection with Route 302. Ride down Crawford Notch on 302 west through Twin Mountain. About 1/3 mile before the bridge over the Ammonoosuc and the "Crossroads of America" building at Trudeau Road, take a right onto Beech Hill Road and then an immediate left onto River Road. The ride crosses Route 142 onto Wing Road and continues along the river until Route 116 (Littleton is only about 4 miles from this intersection). There are a few possible picnic spots either along the river or at the pond near the end of the road (or Littleton?). To return, retrace the route back to 302, then ride Trudeau Road and back for the Presidential Panoramas on Routes 3 and 302.
Meet: Forest Service parking area on Mt Clinton Road, top of Crawford Notch. If you do not have a forest service pass on your car, park at the Crawford Depot RR station and ride up to meet everyone at the parking lot.
Time: Ready to ride at 10:00 (starting times will now be 10:00 am! Fall schedule!)
Total Distance: 40 miles
Shorter options: The only significant hill on the route is the last short pull up Crawford Notch to Mt Clinton Road. This ride is really very flat relative to many that we have done!! If you just don't feel like doing that climb, park at the Eisenhower Wayside Park (sledding hill) about 1 mile down from the Notch on the right hand side of the road. Wait for the rest of the riders to ride by and join in!
To start at Fabyans will give you 30 flatter miles round trip. Zealand parking area gives you an even flatter 26.
For a map click either of these links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/bretton-woods/681125365846685286
Crawford Notch to Wing Road (near Bethlehem)
The trees are beginning to turn colors up in the notches, so lets do a ride to get some of the best views New Hampshire has to offer. Looks like Thursday should be good for some panoramas! Also, we need to ride that fresh smooth black velvet pavement in the Fabyans-Twin Mountain area (they even paved the entire shoulder for us).
This ride has some familiar roads and some new ones to add to the ThursdayBike collection. The ride is similar to the ride that we have done west from Crawford Notch-Trudeau Road, but includes some pleasant riverside riding along the Ammonoosuc River as it winds from Twin Mountain to Littleton, circling the Bethlehem hill. For those of you who have cycled to Littleton from either Whitefield or from Twin Mountain, that climb into Bethlehem is always a chore. This route on River Road and Wing Road is an easy passageway around that hill.
The ride starts at Crawford Notch, at the Forest Service parking area on the left side of Mt. Clinton Road, 0.1 mile from its intersection with Route 302. Ride down Crawford Notch on 302 west through Twin Mountain. About 1/3 mile before the bridge over the Ammonoosuc and the "Crossroads of America" building at Trudeau Road, take a right onto Beech Hill Road and then an immediate left onto River Road. The ride crosses Route 142 onto Wing Road and continues along the river until Route 116 (Littleton is only about 4 miles from this intersection). There are a few possible picnic spots either along the river or at the pond near the end of the road (or Littleton?). To return, retrace the route back to 302, then ride Trudeau Road and back for the Presidential Panoramas on Routes 3 and 302.
Meet: Forest Service parking area on Mt Clinton Road, top of Crawford Notch. If you do not have a forest service pass on your car, park at the Crawford Depot RR station and ride up to meet everyone at the parking lot.
Time: Ready to ride at 10:00 (starting times will now be 10:00 am! Fall schedule!)
Total Distance: 40 miles
Shorter options: The only significant hill on the route is the last short pull up Crawford Notch to Mt Clinton Road. This ride is really very flat relative to many that we have done!! If you just don't feel like doing that climb, park at the Eisenhower Wayside Park (sledding hill) about 1 mile down from the Notch on the right hand side of the road. Wait for the rest of the riders to ride by and join in!
To start at Fabyans will give you 30 flatter miles round trip. Zealand parking area gives you an even flatter 26.
For a map click either of these links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/bretton-woods/681125365846685286
Monday, September 14, 2009
Thursday, September 17th
Kranc the Kanc
Everyone is riding strong at this season of the year! Let's "Kranc the Kanc" or "Kranc SOME Kanc". We have a window of opportunity for a quiet, low traffic, perfect temperature ride up the Kanc before the leaf peepers arrive, so let's go do it.
If you have never done it, now is your chance! If you have done part of it, try to go a bit further!
Most ThursdayBikers have ridden to the Sugar Hill Viewpoint at the gazebo - that included the steepest part of the ride. After that it is a steady grade - but very scenic!! After the Rocky Gorge, the road is relatively flat until the short spike up to Sugar Hill viewpoint (but not as bad as Asparagus Hill). I would rate the climb after Sugar Hill as a bit more work than Bear Notch Road. Gear down and stop a few times to rest and look at the view. Try for Lily Pond?? Go for the summit?? It is a local classic ride!!! Go for the bragging rights!!!
For the long route, meet at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn, ready to ride at 9:00 am. The mileage to the top of the Kanc from there and back is a total of ~56 miles (...but almost half are downhill!!).
To go from Eastern Slope to the Sugar Hill viewpoint, the mileage will be ~46 roundtrip (again, almost half are downhill!!)
To cut the mileage down to 32 round trip, meet at 9:45 at the Albany covered bridge - the parking lot on Passaconaway Road used for the Boulder Loop trail and campground - located on the left side of the road (north side) BEFORE you cross the bridge (not the one next to the Kanc). Meet the riders coming up Passaconaway there. Or, Or.... how about 9:30 at the Dugway picnic area on Passaconaway Road???? Or make up your own plan!!
Lots of options here!! I'll say that we all meet for lunch and snacks at the Sugar Hill viewpoint. This should work regardless of how far you go, and it is a scenic place to eat and chat.
Since I am posting this on Monday morning, I am assuming that the weather forecast will continue to be good for Thursday... Please check this site for any changes in plans on Wednesday evening if the weather changes on us!
See you there!
Everyone is riding strong at this season of the year! Let's "Kranc the Kanc" or "Kranc SOME Kanc". We have a window of opportunity for a quiet, low traffic, perfect temperature ride up the Kanc before the leaf peepers arrive, so let's go do it.
If you have never done it, now is your chance! If you have done part of it, try to go a bit further!
Most ThursdayBikers have ridden to the Sugar Hill Viewpoint at the gazebo - that included the steepest part of the ride. After that it is a steady grade - but very scenic!! After the Rocky Gorge, the road is relatively flat until the short spike up to Sugar Hill viewpoint (but not as bad as Asparagus Hill). I would rate the climb after Sugar Hill as a bit more work than Bear Notch Road. Gear down and stop a few times to rest and look at the view. Try for Lily Pond?? Go for the summit?? It is a local classic ride!!! Go for the bragging rights!!!
For the long route, meet at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn, ready to ride at 9:00 am. The mileage to the top of the Kanc from there and back is a total of ~56 miles (...but almost half are downhill!!).
To go from Eastern Slope to the Sugar Hill viewpoint, the mileage will be ~46 roundtrip (again, almost half are downhill!!)
To cut the mileage down to 32 round trip, meet at 9:45 at the Albany covered bridge - the parking lot on Passaconaway Road used for the Boulder Loop trail and campground - located on the left side of the road (north side) BEFORE you cross the bridge (not the one next to the Kanc). Meet the riders coming up Passaconaway there. Or, Or.... how about 9:30 at the Dugway picnic area on Passaconaway Road???? Or make up your own plan!!
Lots of options here!! I'll say that we all meet for lunch and snacks at the Sugar Hill viewpoint. This should work regardless of how far you go, and it is a scenic place to eat and chat.
Since I am posting this on Monday morning, I am assuming that the weather forecast will continue to be good for Thursday... Please check this site for any changes in plans on Wednesday evening if the weather changes on us!
See you there!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Thursday, September 10th
The Green Mountain Loop
Leland Yee will host this very scenic ride through Freedom and Effingham!! He is the expert on the roads south and southwest of the Conway area. Last year he hosted the scenic ride around Squam Lake (this one is easier!!).
Leland describes the ride as follows:
The Green Mountain Loop
Enjoy a ride on the quiet back roads of southern Carroll County.
We'll start at King Pine and ride south on NH-153, turn left at Cushing Corner Road for a somewhat hilly ride into Freedom Village. The road out of Freedom is flat. From Freedom, we'll travel on 153 to Center Effingham, where we will pick up Town House Road. The loop around Green Mountain concludes with Green Mountain Road, which will take us back to 153.
Lunch is at Bobby Sue's Ice Cream (Frappes are complete and well balanced meals, aren't they?). Since Bobby Sue's serves only ice cream, you will need to bring other food if you want something more solid. After lunch we'll ride the 6, or so, miles back to King Pine, for a total ride of 29 miles.
The loop around Green Mountain is largely rolling; the hills are on the small side.
For those who want more miles, you can turn left on Ossipee Lake Road and ride to Tamworth, Chocorua, and Madison, via Depot Road and NH-113. East Madison Road gets you back to King Pine, and your total for the day will be 53 miles. The first half of this segment is flat, and the second half is hilly.
Let's plan to leave King Pine at 9 AM. Park in the lot across from the ski area.
As always, car pooling is good. (Carpoolers from Glen/Jackson area - meet at Grant's parking lot at 8:00).
There is a new coffee shop that recently opened in Freedom Village, operated by volunteers from the area. Hopefully it is still open on the weekdays - if so, we can stop there for a coffee and a snack.
For a map of the ride, try either of these two links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-madison-/640124952290956167
Leland Yee will host this very scenic ride through Freedom and Effingham!! He is the expert on the roads south and southwest of the Conway area. Last year he hosted the scenic ride around Squam Lake (this one is easier!!).
Leland describes the ride as follows:
The Green Mountain Loop
Enjoy a ride on the quiet back roads of southern Carroll County.
We'll start at King Pine and ride south on NH-153, turn left at Cushing Corner Road for a somewhat hilly ride into Freedom Village. The road out of Freedom is flat. From Freedom, we'll travel on 153 to Center Effingham, where we will pick up Town House Road. The loop around Green Mountain concludes with Green Mountain Road, which will take us back to 153.
Lunch is at Bobby Sue's Ice Cream (Frappes are complete and well balanced meals, aren't they?). Since Bobby Sue's serves only ice cream, you will need to bring other food if you want something more solid. After lunch we'll ride the 6, or so, miles back to King Pine, for a total ride of 29 miles.
The loop around Green Mountain is largely rolling; the hills are on the small side.
For those who want more miles, you can turn left on Ossipee Lake Road and ride to Tamworth, Chocorua, and Madison, via Depot Road and NH-113. East Madison Road gets you back to King Pine, and your total for the day will be 53 miles. The first half of this segment is flat, and the second half is hilly.
Let's plan to leave King Pine at 9 AM. Park in the lot across from the ski area.
As always, car pooling is good. (Carpoolers from Glen/Jackson area - meet at Grant's parking lot at 8:00).
There is a new coffee shop that recently opened in Freedom Village, operated by volunteers from the area. Hopefully it is still open on the weekdays - if so, we can stop there for a coffee and a snack.
For a map of the ride, try either of these two links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-madison-/640124952290956167
Monday, August 31, 2009
Thursday, September 3rd
The Snowville Loop
The Snowville Loop is a really nice, relatively short ride (25 miles). There are no notches, but there are a few short moderate climbs and also that famous "Asparagus Hill" which is a short, steep challenge! This should be an easier climb than it was in the early part of the season!! Fewer bugs, too!
The ride goes through Center Conway, South Conway, into part of Brownfield, ME, then to Snowville and Eaton, by Crystal Lake. A stop at the Eaton Store to buy lunch or snacks could be done (but don't use their toilet)...!). Probably best to eat lunch at the picnic tables along the lake in the woods near the Eaton Store or the tables at the beach - if they are still there! Best to use the porta-potty at the beach. Return by Route 153 and Stark Road.
The ride starts in Conway Village out of the public parking lot near the corner of routes 16 and 153, behind the Mountain Center Physical Therapy building and the Laconia Bank.
Be ready to ride at 9:00 am.
For a longer option, start at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn to add 14 miles round trip (38 total) via West Side Road. Meet up with the rest of the riders at the parking area in Conway Village. Leave the parking lot at Eastern Slope no later than 8:15.
Tom and I are on the road again - we are riding the Petit Train du Nord Rail Trail north of Montreal. We will be back for the Thursday Ride on Sept 10th.
Have a great ride in the sunshine!!
For the map, try either of the following links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-conway-village/621125175366198278
The Snowville Loop is a really nice, relatively short ride (25 miles). There are no notches, but there are a few short moderate climbs and also that famous "Asparagus Hill" which is a short, steep challenge! This should be an easier climb than it was in the early part of the season!! Fewer bugs, too!
The ride goes through Center Conway, South Conway, into part of Brownfield, ME, then to Snowville and Eaton, by Crystal Lake. A stop at the Eaton Store to buy lunch or snacks could be done (but don't use their toilet)...!). Probably best to eat lunch at the picnic tables along the lake in the woods near the Eaton Store or the tables at the beach - if they are still there! Best to use the porta-potty at the beach. Return by Route 153 and Stark Road.
The ride starts in Conway Village out of the public parking lot near the corner of routes 16 and 153, behind the Mountain Center Physical Therapy building and the Laconia Bank.
Be ready to ride at 9:00 am.
For a longer option, start at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn to add 14 miles round trip (38 total) via West Side Road. Meet up with the rest of the riders at the parking area in Conway Village. Leave the parking lot at Eastern Slope no later than 8:15.
Tom and I are on the road again - we are riding the Petit Train du Nord Rail Trail north of Montreal. We will be back for the Thursday Ride on Sept 10th.
Have a great ride in the sunshine!!
For the map, try either of the following links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-conway-village/621125175366198278
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Thursday, August 27
The Basin Start Time: 9:00 am
It looks like Thursday is going to be a beautiful day for cycling, so let's do a repeat of the ride which set the high-attendance record earlier this season. There are a number of ride options in this area, and, if the weather forecast is correct, it looks like they all will catch a tailwind on the return leg back to the cars.
Starting place: The Peace With-Inn Bed and Breakfast. Catherine Kyle has once again offered us the big parking area there (parking area on the left side of the Inn). The Inn is 7 miles from North Conway: Take East Conway Road past Sherman Farms, bear left onto Route 113 North. At Webster's Country Store bear right to continue north on 113, and continue 1 mile north to the Peace With-Inn, on the left. Here is more info on the Peace With-Inn: http://www.peacewithinn.com/directions.htm
For a link to the interactive map at MapMyRide.com, please see the posting for the July 9, 2009 ride.
Total distance for the route from the Peace With-Inn to The Basin and return: 37 miles (relatively flat ones!)
Shorter options -- lots of possibilities here... here are some ideas for you:
Start at Peace With-Inn and ride to the Stow Store: 19 miles. Add the North Chatham loop for a total of 25 miles.
Start at the North Fryeburg Fire Station or the White Church at the corner of Fish St and Route 113, to The Basin and back: 26 miles (ride out to McNeil via Fish St and meet the rest of the riders out there on their way to The Basin).
Start at the Stow Store, meet the riders and go to The Basin: 18 miles
Ready to Ride at 9:00 am.
Carpool? Those form the Bartlett/Jackson area: Meet at Grant's Supermarket parking lot in Glen at 8:00 am
Bring a lunch and snacks to enjoy in The Basin
We hope to see you Thursday in the sunshine!!
It looks like Thursday is going to be a beautiful day for cycling, so let's do a repeat of the ride which set the high-attendance record earlier this season. There are a number of ride options in this area, and, if the weather forecast is correct, it looks like they all will catch a tailwind on the return leg back to the cars.
Starting place: The Peace With-Inn Bed and Breakfast. Catherine Kyle has once again offered us the big parking area there (parking area on the left side of the Inn). The Inn is 7 miles from North Conway: Take East Conway Road past Sherman Farms, bear left onto Route 113 North. At Webster's Country Store bear right to continue north on 113, and continue 1 mile north to the Peace With-Inn, on the left. Here is more info on the Peace With-Inn: http://www.peacewithinn.com/directions.htm
For a link to the interactive map at MapMyRide.com, please see the posting for the July 9, 2009 ride.
Total distance for the route from the Peace With-Inn to The Basin and return: 37 miles (relatively flat ones!)
Shorter options -- lots of possibilities here... here are some ideas for you:
Start at Peace With-Inn and ride to the Stow Store: 19 miles. Add the North Chatham loop for a total of 25 miles.
Start at the North Fryeburg Fire Station or the White Church at the corner of Fish St and Route 113, to The Basin and back: 26 miles (ride out to McNeil via Fish St and meet the rest of the riders out there on their way to The Basin).
Start at the Stow Store, meet the riders and go to The Basin: 18 miles
Ready to Ride at 9:00 am.
Carpool? Those form the Bartlett/Jackson area: Meet at Grant's Supermarket parking lot in Glen at 8:00 am
Bring a lunch and snacks to enjoy in The Basin
We hope to see you Thursday in the sunshine!!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Thursday, August 20th
The Lost Nation Loop 9:00 am start
Carpooling: If you want to carpool, meet at the Attitash parking lot at 7:50 am
Information about the Republic of Indian Stream: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Indian_Stream
About the novel, Lost Nation, by Jeffrey Lent: http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Nation-Jeffrey-Lent/dp/0871138433
Again this week I am setting up a ride out of the valley. This is in an attempt to get us away from all the tourist traffic, and perhaps also to make all of US the tourists for a change so that we can go explore new terrain and see beautiful scenery!
Again, this is one of my most favorite rides! Farms, fields, horses, cows, mountain views, covered bridges, rivers, streams, villages, little white churches, closed papermills, etc. This ride has everything the region can offer.
The Lost Nation Loop starts in Whitefield at the town green with the gazebo in the center. We ride east towards Jefferson on route 116, then North Road through Grange and Lost Nation to Groveton. We then ride about 2.5 miles down Route 3 (wide shoulder) to Northumberland and cross the CT River into Guildhall, VT. We ride the VT side of the CT River on Route 102 then cross the Mt. Orne Covered Bridge just south of Lancaster. We ride almost to Dalton along the NH side of the CT River and then take route 142 back to Whitefield.
I know that it is more driving than we typically do, and more miles biking than we typically do, but I think this ride is worth it!!! Bring a camera and bring plenty to eat and drink, as there are not many places to get supplies until we reach Groveton. We will eat lunch at the park at the Groveton Covered Bridge.
For the map try either of these links:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/lost-nation/300382908
Carpooling: If you want to carpool, meet at the Attitash parking lot at 7:50 am
Directions to Whitefield: Route 302 through Crawford Notch to the light at Twin Mountain four corners. Take a right onto Route 3 and follow it to the center of Whitefield, a tiny town green with gazebo.
Parking in Whitefield: There is parking around the town green in the center of Whitefield (intersection of routes 3, 116, 142) and behind the bank which is across the street from the green in the center of town. Wherever you park, meet the riders on the town green at 9:00 am. Allow at least one hour drive time.
Options? Unfortunately, there are no really good shorter options here. Do the whole loop for the ultimate experience!
Difficulty? No notches. No Asparagus Hills. A bit harder than last week's ride from Bethel to Andover. There are some good rolling hills. The toughest climb (probably not even a quarter mile long) is not far out of Whitefield, so it is at the beginning of the ride when we have more energy to get it over with.
History: Lost Nation seems to always be associated with The Republic of Indian Stream, (perhaps because of the book written about this interesting region of NH?). The place called Lost Nation, where we will ride (don't blink or you may miss it...), is not geographically contained within The Republic of Indian Stream, so I am curious as to how they are historically related. Can anyone help with this history?Information about the Republic of Indian Stream: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Indian_Stream
About the novel, Lost Nation, by Jeffrey Lent: http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Nation-Jeffrey-Lent/dp/0871138433
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Thursday, August 13th
Bethel to Andover: Rivers and Farms
The traffic in the valley these August days is really heavy, and any local ride I have done lately has been sharing the road with a continual line of traffic. I think that until Labor Day is over, I will be setting up Thursday rides that are out of this valley in as quiet a place as possible for our enjoyment and safety!
The ride I would like to do on Thursday is a new one to ThursdayBike but is one of my favorite rides. Do you like the North Road to Bethel Ride? This is an extension of it!
We routinely ride North Road about 20 miles from Gorham to Bethel then eat our lunch at the park on the river. Less than 0.1 mile from the park, Intervale Road heads north along the east side of the Androscoggin River all the way to West Rumford. (Carters XC Ski area is on this road). It is quiet because all of the car and truck traffic stays on Route 2, which is on the west side of the river. From West Rumford, the route crosses the Androscoggin and Route 2 and continues to head North to Andover following the Ellis River Valley.
Andover has a couple of good lunch spots and a nice shady town green with picnic tables, so either bring a lunch or buy one there. The weather forecast looks great, so the views should be excellent, and a tailwind all the way home...
Total distance: 49 miles (No notches! Not hard! You can do it!)
Shorter options: (but, I really want you to do all of it!) To the Lovejoy Covered Bridge (Maine's shortest covered bridge) in South Andover (No lunch!) 40 miles. To The Androscoggin River in West Rumford (No Lunch!) 25 miles.
Starting Time: 9:30 am Ready To Ride from the riverside park at the end of the bike path in Bethel on Route 26 (our usual lunch stop with picnic tables, porta-potties and playground).
Parking: There are not a lot of parking spaces at the riverside park! If the lot is full, you can park along Main Street in Bethel, also there is parking near the convenience store/DunkinDonuts on Route 2 right at where the bike path crosses the river on its own bridge. I also noticed parking spaces on the right side of Lincoln Road which is a right turn off of Parkway Road (runs parallel to the bikepath). Wherever you park, just ride your bike down to meet the riders at the park at 9:30 am.
The traffic in the valley these August days is really heavy, and any local ride I have done lately has been sharing the road with a continual line of traffic. I think that until Labor Day is over, I will be setting up Thursday rides that are out of this valley in as quiet a place as possible for our enjoyment and safety!
The ride I would like to do on Thursday is a new one to ThursdayBike but is one of my favorite rides. Do you like the North Road to Bethel Ride? This is an extension of it!
We routinely ride North Road about 20 miles from Gorham to Bethel then eat our lunch at the park on the river. Less than 0.1 mile from the park, Intervale Road heads north along the east side of the Androscoggin River all the way to West Rumford. (Carters XC Ski area is on this road). It is quiet because all of the car and truck traffic stays on Route 2, which is on the west side of the river. From West Rumford, the route crosses the Androscoggin and Route 2 and continues to head North to Andover following the Ellis River Valley.
Andover has a couple of good lunch spots and a nice shady town green with picnic tables, so either bring a lunch or buy one there. The weather forecast looks great, so the views should be excellent, and a tailwind all the way home...
Total distance: 49 miles (No notches! Not hard! You can do it!)
Shorter options: (but, I really want you to do all of it!) To the Lovejoy Covered Bridge (Maine's shortest covered bridge) in South Andover (No lunch!) 40 miles. To The Androscoggin River in West Rumford (No Lunch!) 25 miles.
Starting Time: 9:30 am Ready To Ride from the riverside park at the end of the bike path in Bethel on Route 26 (our usual lunch stop with picnic tables, porta-potties and playground).
Parking: There are not a lot of parking spaces at the riverside park! If the lot is full, you can park along Main Street in Bethel, also there is parking near the convenience store/DunkinDonuts on Route 2 right at where the bike path crosses the river on its own bridge. I also noticed parking spaces on the right side of Lincoln Road which is a right turn off of Parkway Road (runs parallel to the bikepath). Wherever you park, just ride your bike down to meet the riders at the park at 9:30 am.
Carpool: Meet at Grant's parking lot in Glen at 8:10 am
Driving to Bethel: There is a lot of construction on Route 2 from Gilead to Bethel - lots of delays and one way traffic. Best plan to drive Route 2, past the junction with Route 113 (Evans Notch), continuing on Route 2 about 0.3 mile and take a left turn (Bridge Street) to cross the Androscoggin on the Gilead iron bridge. Take a right onto North Road and continue in peace and quiet to Bethel. Take a right at the end onto Route 2, then next left at the blinking light onto Parkway Road that leads to the riverside park on route 26.
To see a map of the ride click either the link or the button below ( I will bring printed maps for you):
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/me/-bethel/842125004396560418
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Thursday, August 6
The Other Side of Crawford Notch
This scenic ride starts on Mt. Clinton Road, across Route 302 from the Highland Center at the top of Crawford Notch. Although Mt. Clinton Road is overdue for some paving, just take a relaxed, slow, morning ride picking your way around the potholes. It is a wonderful quiet ride in the cool shade through the woods for 4 miles. Fly down Base Road behind the Mt. Washington Hotel, then turn right on Route 302 towards Twin Mountain. Check out the Ammonoosuc Upper Falls on the left (there is a kiosk there) just at the point where you spot the roof of the hotel in the distance. Turn right on Route 302 and continue past Fabyan's and straight through the lights at the Twin Mountain 4-corners to Trudeau Road at the "Crossroads of America" building. After a gradual climb on Trudeau Rd, take a left onto Route 3 and ride a gradual downhill back to the Twin Mountain 4-corners. Back onto route 302, ride a few miles to the Zealand parking area on the left. The dirt road at the end of the parking lot (a short walk or dirt ride) leads to the Lower Ammonoosuc Falls which is a good spot to have lunch. Continuing up the dirt road for a very short distance leads to pavement again and back to Route 302 for the classic ride by the Mt Washington Hotel and the Presidential Range. The Crawford Notch climb from this direction is not long or too hard, especially if we get a tailwind!!
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Start place: Parking area on Mt Clinton Road, right near the intersection with route 302. (Take a left into the lot just after turning right onto Mt Clinton Rd from route 302.) This is a Forest Service parking lot - you need a parking pass to park here. If you do not have one, park at the lot located at the top of Crawford Notch, on the left side, just after you pass though the notch. It is a hiker/climber parking area, right next to the railroad tracks. Park there and then ride over to meet everyone at the Mt. Clinton Road parking area (about 1/2 mile).
Total Distance: 34 miles
Lotsa' options....here are a few possibilities...
Shorter version: Cut out 11 miles if you turn back at the Twin Mountain 4-corners.
Another shorter version: Cut out 5 miles if you start on Route 302 and don't do the Mt Clinton/Base Road section.
Longer version, with bragging rights: Start from home, Attitash, Bartlett, 4th Iron or Willey House and climb Crawford Notch to the starting point.
Flat version (very scenic, but fewer calories burned...): Start at the Eisenhower State Park parking area (sledding hill in the winter) on the right side of Route 302, about a mile after Mt. Clinton Road. Ride Route 302 to the gas station/Fabyans area near the Base Road /302 intersection and wait for the riders coming down Base Road to meet you there. You could start from here about 9:20 or so and probably have not too long a wait.
Carpool? If you wish to carpool, meet at the Grant's parking lot 8:15am.
Here is a map:
This scenic ride starts on Mt. Clinton Road, across Route 302 from the Highland Center at the top of Crawford Notch. Although Mt. Clinton Road is overdue for some paving, just take a relaxed, slow, morning ride picking your way around the potholes. It is a wonderful quiet ride in the cool shade through the woods for 4 miles. Fly down Base Road behind the Mt. Washington Hotel, then turn right on Route 302 towards Twin Mountain. Check out the Ammonoosuc Upper Falls on the left (there is a kiosk there) just at the point where you spot the roof of the hotel in the distance. Turn right on Route 302 and continue past Fabyan's and straight through the lights at the Twin Mountain 4-corners to Trudeau Road at the "Crossroads of America" building. After a gradual climb on Trudeau Rd, take a left onto Route 3 and ride a gradual downhill back to the Twin Mountain 4-corners. Back onto route 302, ride a few miles to the Zealand parking area on the left. The dirt road at the end of the parking lot (a short walk or dirt ride) leads to the Lower Ammonoosuc Falls which is a good spot to have lunch. Continuing up the dirt road for a very short distance leads to pavement again and back to Route 302 for the classic ride by the Mt Washington Hotel and the Presidential Range. The Crawford Notch climb from this direction is not long or too hard, especially if we get a tailwind!!
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Start place: Parking area on Mt Clinton Road, right near the intersection with route 302. (Take a left into the lot just after turning right onto Mt Clinton Rd from route 302.) This is a Forest Service parking lot - you need a parking pass to park here. If you do not have one, park at the lot located at the top of Crawford Notch, on the left side, just after you pass though the notch. It is a hiker/climber parking area, right next to the railroad tracks. Park there and then ride over to meet everyone at the Mt. Clinton Road parking area (about 1/2 mile).
Total Distance: 34 miles
Lotsa' options....here are a few possibilities...
Shorter version: Cut out 11 miles if you turn back at the Twin Mountain 4-corners.
Another shorter version: Cut out 5 miles if you start on Route 302 and don't do the Mt Clinton/Base Road section.
Longer version, with bragging rights: Start from home, Attitash, Bartlett, 4th Iron or Willey House and climb Crawford Notch to the starting point.
Flat version (very scenic, but fewer calories burned...): Start at the Eisenhower State Park parking area (sledding hill in the winter) on the right side of Route 302, about a mile after Mt. Clinton Road. Ride Route 302 to the gas station/Fabyans area near the Base Road /302 intersection and wait for the riders coming down Base Road to meet you there. You could start from here about 9:20 or so and probably have not too long a wait.
Carpool? If you wish to carpool, meet at the Grant's parking lot 8:15am.
Here is a map:
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Thursday, July 30th
Ride from Attitash Parking Lot
Since I will be at the Bon Ton Roulet in NY State this week, I am setting up a ride for you for this Thursday, July 30th. Hopefully the weather will be great! (I don't want too many days of camping and riding in the rain in NY!!). When I get back, I hope for some nice Thursdays, as I have a few new rides to try out!!!!
How about meeting at 9:00 am, ready to ride, out of the main parking lot across the street from Attitash Ski Area? The ride can be up Route 302 to the Willey House for a picnic lunch on the pond, or do the Bear Notch Loop. Riders choose!! For a short, easy flat ride option, do the River Road and Stillings Grant option.
Have a nice summer week!
Since I will be at the Bon Ton Roulet in NY State this week, I am setting up a ride for you for this Thursday, July 30th. Hopefully the weather will be great! (I don't want too many days of camping and riding in the rain in NY!!). When I get back, I hope for some nice Thursdays, as I have a few new rides to try out!!!!
How about meeting at 9:00 am, ready to ride, out of the main parking lot across the street from Attitash Ski Area? The ride can be up Route 302 to the Willey House for a picnic lunch on the pond, or do the Bear Notch Loop. Riders choose!! For a short, easy flat ride option, do the River Road and Stillings Grant option.
Have a nice summer week!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Thursday, July 23rd
Beautiful Brownfield 9:30 start
This ride is a combination of one of Connie Kinsman's favorite rides (used at the Maine Bike Rally: "Brownfield is Beautiful") and a short portion of Steve Swenson's ride from Brownfield to Bridgeton that ThrusdayBike did last summer. The weather forecast looks OK for us to do this ride, and it would be easy to shorten if the sky starts to darken. The ride overlaps for about a mile with the Snowville Loop - a downhill cruise near Asparagus Hill (Does NOT include the hill; just smile as you ride by it!!)
The entire ride is 33 miles. It can be shortened to the "Brownfield is Beautiful" for 18 miles, or continue to East Brownfield and the Saco River, out and back flatly, for about 30 miles. The 33 mile version makes a loop with some rolling hills back onto route 160 near the Brownfield 5 corners. On the return trip, there is a short climb on Sam Brown Hill Road, but the Maine Rally Cue Sheet said it was worth it since it is such a scenic area.
Start: Maine Information Center parking lot, just over the Maine border in Fryeburg, on the right side of Route 302 (the new building that looks like a railroad station). ready to ride at 9:30. We will begin riding from there on Haleytown Road (new pavement!).
Car pool - If you want to carpool from the Bartlett Jackson area, meet at the Grant's parking lot at 8:45. Otherwise, see you at the Maine Info Center!
Map:
Next week I will be in NY State riding the Bon Ton Roulet ... anyone want to host Thursday's ride, July 30th???
This ride is a combination of one of Connie Kinsman's favorite rides (used at the Maine Bike Rally: "Brownfield is Beautiful") and a short portion of Steve Swenson's ride from Brownfield to Bridgeton that ThrusdayBike did last summer. The weather forecast looks OK for us to do this ride, and it would be easy to shorten if the sky starts to darken. The ride overlaps for about a mile with the Snowville Loop - a downhill cruise near Asparagus Hill (Does NOT include the hill; just smile as you ride by it!!)
The entire ride is 33 miles. It can be shortened to the "Brownfield is Beautiful" for 18 miles, or continue to East Brownfield and the Saco River, out and back flatly, for about 30 miles. The 33 mile version makes a loop with some rolling hills back onto route 160 near the Brownfield 5 corners. On the return trip, there is a short climb on Sam Brown Hill Road, but the Maine Rally Cue Sheet said it was worth it since it is such a scenic area.
Start: Maine Information Center parking lot, just over the Maine border in Fryeburg, on the right side of Route 302 (the new building that looks like a railroad station). ready to ride at 9:30. We will begin riding from there on Haleytown Road (new pavement!).
Car pool - If you want to carpool from the Bartlett Jackson area, meet at the Grant's parking lot at 8:45. Otherwise, see you at the Maine Info Center!
Map:
Next week I will be in NY State riding the Bon Ton Roulet ... anyone want to host Thursday's ride, July 30th???
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Thursday, July 16, 2009
What a great day it was last Thursday! 43 riders were out in the sun in North Fryeburg! This might be a world record for ThursdayBike attendance!!
There were 7 different variations of the ride, designed by riders to suit their time schedule and energy level! We were scattered all over the region!!
This Thursday will be not quite as stellar, or as easy to plan... there is a 50% chance of rain, more likely in the afternoon. So I am thinking the best plan would be to do a local out-and-back ride that can be easily reversed if the weather threatens.
Meet at 9:00, ready to ride at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn. We can ride the local classic - West Side Road to Passaconaway to the Kanc and to Rocky Gorge, then back. It is 25 miles round trip to the Albany Covered Bridge, 30 miles round trip to Rocky Gorge.
See you there if it is not raining!!
There were 7 different variations of the ride, designed by riders to suit their time schedule and energy level! We were scattered all over the region!!
This Thursday will be not quite as stellar, or as easy to plan... there is a 50% chance of rain, more likely in the afternoon. So I am thinking the best plan would be to do a local out-and-back ride that can be easily reversed if the weather threatens.
Meet at 9:00, ready to ride at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn. We can ride the local classic - West Side Road to Passaconaway to the Kanc and to Rocky Gorge, then back. It is 25 miles round trip to the Albany Covered Bridge, 30 miles round trip to Rocky Gorge.
See you there if it is not raining!!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Thursday, July 9, 2009
A Basin of Blooming 'Taters
I think we should be OK for the ThursdayBike Ride....
Surprisingly, the potato fields in North Fryebug look really good - the plants are blooming! Looks like the potatoes don't mind the wet conditions. The corn and soybeans are suffering, however. Let's go cheer on the potato blooms and ride out to The Basin. It will be so nice there in the sunshine!!? A few days ago I looked at the short road leading up to The Basin - it is nicely packed dirt, better looking than when we rode it last year.
Starting place: The Peace With-Inn Bed and Breakfast. Catherine Kyle has once again offered us the big parking area there (parking area on the left side of the Inn). The Inn is 7 miles from North Conway: Take East Conway Road past Sherman Farms, bear left onto Route 113 North. At Webster's Country Store bear right to continue north on 113, and continue 1 mile north to the Peace With-Inn, on the left. Here is more info on the Peace With-Inn: http://www.peacewithinn.com/directions.htm
Here is a map:Total distance for the route from the Peace With-Inn to The Basin and return: 37 miles (relatively flat ones!)
Shorter options -- lots of possibilities here... here are some ideas for you:
Start at Peace With-Inn and ride to the Stow Store: 19 miles. Add the North Chatham loop for a total of 25 miles.
Start at the North Fryeburg Fire Station or the White Church at the corner of Fish St and Route 113, to The Basin and back: 26 miles (ride out to McNeil via Fish St and meet the rest of the riders out there on their way to The Basin).
Start at the Stow Store, meet the riders and go to The Basin: 18 miles
Ready to Ride at 10:00 am (I really want to start our summer riding time of 9:00 am, but the weather forecast looks better if we wait until 10)
Carpool? Those form the Bartlett/Jackson area: Meet at Grant's Supermarket parking lot in Glen at 9:00 am
Bring a lunch and snacks to enjoy in The Basin
Other news: The Maine Bike Rally is this weekend!
For the list of rides on Friday late afternoon, Saturday and Sunday, click here: http://www.cascobaybicycleclub.org/rallyrides.htm
This site has the list with start times, maps, leaders/sweeps and cue sheets. Local riders ride free. Just go to the Fryeburg Academy Gym, sign up and ride! Try something new!
And last but not least -- From Ralph -- an article he found on what we are missing down in the Boston area cycling scene...
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/articles/2009/07/07/the_sun_is_barely_up_when_a_group_of_doctors_lawyers_and_other_professionals_hit_the_road_for_their_weekly_cycle?s_campaign=8315
I hope to see you Thursday in the sunshine!!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Ride Cancelled for Thursday, July 2nd
If we can't ride because of the rain, at least we can dream about upcoming ride events!!
Here is a list for you!
Betsy Kent invites all cyclists to this event sponsored by the Jackson Library:
Cyclist Marty Basch to spin his stories at Whitney Center in Jackson on July 18
Join author Marty Basch for an entertaining look at life from the seat of a bicycle on Saturday, July 18 at 7 PM at the Whitney Center in Jackson.
Basch has logged thousands of miles on his bicycle, pedaling his way to adventures on rides from Maine to Alaska, the Arctic Circle, and Canada to Mexico. Hear about his face-to-face encounter with an Alaskan grizzly bear or what it’s like to sample wild native cuisine like reindeer. His storytelling program serves up tall tales, experienced first-hand from his travels.
Basch is a writer, lecturer and adventurer who has written widely on the outdoors, sports, travel and food. He is the author of several books and will spin his stories right from the pages of his work: Against the Wind, Above the Circle and Twenty-nine Hills. Recently, Basch published a second edition of the popular The White Mountain Ride Guide which includes both road bicycling trips and mountain bike trails.
Basch, who lives in the Mount Washington Valley, has won several writing awards including the prestigious gold Lowell Thomas Award from the Society of American Travel Writers and is a member of the Explorers Club. He is a Conway Daily Sun bicycle and ski columnist, Boston Globe correspondent, syndicated columnist and contributor to several publications.
For more information of this Friends of Jackson Public Library program, call 383-9731
Next weekend, Fri, Sat, Sun July 10,11,12: Maine Bike Rally - locals ride free!! Get all the info on http://www.bikemaine.org/mainebikerally/index.html Many ThursdayBikers and Velo Club folks are leading rides, sweeping rides or helping out throughout the weekend. Volunteers still needed.
Saturday July 18: Mt Washington Velo Club BBQ Ride hosted by Steve Blum with a BBQ at his house after the ride http://www.mwvveloclub.org/
Saturday July 25: Maine Lobster Ride in Rockport, 16, 30, 50 or 100 mile routes with lobster rolls and lighthouses http://www.bikemaine.org/lobsterride
July 25 - August 1: Bon Ton Roulet, a one week supported bike tour around the Finger Lakes in NY State. There is still time to join in! (at last count, 6 ThursdayBikers are going!) http://www.bontonroulet.com/
Saturday August 1: Tin Mountain Century Ride 50 or 100 miles http://www.tinmtn.org/century.cfm
Saturday August : Mt Washington Velo Club BYOB3 Ride with free BBQ at Echo Lake http://www.mwvveloclub.org/
Saturday August 29: Mad River Valley Century, Waitsfield, VT 50 and 100 mile rides
(7 ThursdayBikers are riding it, so far! Surprisingly easy century - great for 1st timers! call or email Marianne if you want to join in on the ride and lodging plans) http://www.mrvcenturyride.com/
Saturday September 12: Lighthouse Ride hosted by the Eastern Trail Alliance, South Portland, Maine 25, 40 62 or 100 mile rides http://www.easterntrail.org/
The weather has to be great for all of these events. We have had enough rain!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, July 2
Check back in on Wednesday evening to see if the weather will allow us a ride this Thursday, JULY 2nd.
JULY???
I was hoping to set up a ride to The Basin, but if the weather is iffy, I might just have to cancel..... Let's hope the weatherfolks have a better forecast...
JULY???
I was hoping to set up a ride to The Basin, but if the weather is iffy, I might just have to cancel..... Let's hope the weatherfolks have a better forecast...
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Thursday, June 25th
The Bear Notch Loop
The day looks great for a bike ride if we start early and end before the heat and/or the thunderstorms. Let's do the Bear Notch Loop before the summer traffic gets out there!
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Start location: Public parking area behind the Eastern Slope Inn, North Conway
Route: The counterclockwise loop. Get the climbing over with early this way. When you make it to the top of Bear Notch Road (mile 15), enjoy the endless downhill (with a tailwind..) on Bear Notch Road, the Kanc and Passaconaway. This is 25 miles of downhill or flat cruising. One of the best rides outside of Storyland!
Take a look at the elevation profile on the map:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-north-conway/363072764667
Total Miles: 39
Shorter Option: Start at the Attitash parking lot and ride up Bear Notch Road. Start at 9:15, take your time and those that started at Eastern Slope should catch up with you on Bear Notch Road.
Summit Bear Notch then either return back to your car at Attitash (total of about 15 miles) .... OR....!! If you have a friend that started at Eastern Slope ... Ride the rest of the loop to enjoy the Kanc/Passaconaway/West Side to Eastern Slope and have your friend drive you to your car at Attitiash. This would cut out about 8 miles.
The day looks great for a bike ride if we start early and end before the heat and/or the thunderstorms. Let's do the Bear Notch Loop before the summer traffic gets out there!
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Start location: Public parking area behind the Eastern Slope Inn, North Conway
Route: The counterclockwise loop. Get the climbing over with early this way. When you make it to the top of Bear Notch Road (mile 15), enjoy the endless downhill (with a tailwind..) on Bear Notch Road, the Kanc and Passaconaway. This is 25 miles of downhill or flat cruising. One of the best rides outside of Storyland!
Take a look at the elevation profile on the map:
http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/nh/-north-conway/363072764667
Total Miles: 39
Shorter Option: Start at the Attitash parking lot and ride up Bear Notch Road. Start at 9:15, take your time and those that started at Eastern Slope should catch up with you on Bear Notch Road.
Summit Bear Notch then either return back to your car at Attitash (total of about 15 miles) .... OR....!! If you have a friend that started at Eastern Slope ... Ride the rest of the loop to enjoy the Kanc/Passaconaway/West Side to Eastern Slope and have your friend drive you to your car at Attitiash. This would cut out about 8 miles.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Thursday, June 18th
The North Road Ride
It appears that we can get a ride in in the morning and early afternoon before the rain comes in for the next few days....
The North Road Ride (Gorham to Bethel) would be a good one to get away from the "Rally in the Valley" road noise and traffic. A 9:00 ready to ride start would be the best bet for completing the ride before afternoon showers.
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Total Mileage: 39 miles
Destination: A riverside park in Bethel. Bring lunch and snacks.
Starting Point: North Road in Gorham. Park at the intersection of North Road and Hogan Road. There is not a lot of available space here, so carpooling is recommended.
Carpool: Grants/Old Dunkin Donuts parking lot at 8:00 am
Directions to North Road: Drive north on route16 over Pinkham Notch, take a right on route 2 east, drive about 3 miles to North Road which on the left just after a big stone house. Cross the river on the dam and go about 1/4 mile to where North Road bears sharp right. Hogan Road parking area is on the left.
Shorter option: Start at the iron bridge in Gilead. This would be at about the 9 mile mark for those who are starting from Gorham, so it cuts out 18 miles of riding. Park in the canoe parking area to the south of the bridge, then ride over the bridge and wait for the rest of us to meet you.
It appears that we can get a ride in in the morning and early afternoon before the rain comes in for the next few days....
The North Road Ride (Gorham to Bethel) would be a good one to get away from the "Rally in the Valley" road noise and traffic. A 9:00 ready to ride start would be the best bet for completing the ride before afternoon showers.
Start time: 9:00 am, ready to ride
Total Mileage: 39 miles
Destination: A riverside park in Bethel. Bring lunch and snacks.
Starting Point: North Road in Gorham. Park at the intersection of North Road and Hogan Road. There is not a lot of available space here, so carpooling is recommended.
Carpool: Grants/Old Dunkin Donuts parking lot at 8:00 am
Directions to North Road: Drive north on route16 over Pinkham Notch, take a right on route 2 east, drive about 3 miles to North Road which on the left just after a big stone house. Cross the river on the dam and go about 1/4 mile to where North Road bears sharp right. Hogan Road parking area is on the left.
Shorter option: Start at the iron bridge in Gilead. This would be at about the 9 mile mark for those who are starting from Gorham, so it cuts out 18 miles of riding. Park in the canoe parking area to the south of the bridge, then ride over the bridge and wait for the rest of us to meet you.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Thursday June 11th Rained Out
Unfortunately, the weather forecast just doesn't look good for a ride tomorrow.
But, the rain is really good for our gardens! Just think of how green and lush it will be for our Thursday Ride next week!
Saturday's weather looks better, so here is the info about the Saturday Velo Club ride:
Saturday is the Annual Bike Swap at the Moat from 8:00 am to 1:00
If you want to do a ride, Trish Ashworth will host a ride to the Rocky Gorge on the Kanc. Leave from the Bike Swap at 9:00 or meet the riders at the public parking area behind the Eastern Slope Inn at 9:15. The ride will go down West Side Road to Allen's Siding to Passaconaway Road to the Kanc and end at the Rocky Gorge. It is 30 miles round trip form the Eastern Slope to Rocky Gorge, 24 miles round trip if you turn back at the Albany Covered Bridge.
If you want a longer, faster ride, go with John Renda around Mt Washington. See the details on http://www.mwvveloclub.org/
But, the rain is really good for our gardens! Just think of how green and lush it will be for our Thursday Ride next week!
Saturday's weather looks better, so here is the info about the Saturday Velo Club ride:
Saturday is the Annual Bike Swap at the Moat from 8:00 am to 1:00
If you want to do a ride, Trish Ashworth will host a ride to the Rocky Gorge on the Kanc. Leave from the Bike Swap at 9:00 or meet the riders at the public parking area behind the Eastern Slope Inn at 9:15. The ride will go down West Side Road to Allen's Siding to Passaconaway Road to the Kanc and end at the Rocky Gorge. It is 30 miles round trip form the Eastern Slope to Rocky Gorge, 24 miles round trip if you turn back at the Albany Covered Bridge.
If you want a longer, faster ride, go with John Renda around Mt Washington. See the details on http://www.mwvveloclub.org/
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Thursday June 4th: Lakes and Pine Barrens
Jackie is back on land again, so let's celebrate by riding a route she put together many years ago! This route includes some nice water views, so she will recall her weeks on the ship.....
The Lakes and Pine Barrens Ride starts at the King Pine Ski Area parking lot (across the street from the lifts), travels south down route 153, then goes east though the Ossipee Pine Barrens on Bennet Road. The route goes by Camp Calumet at the northern tip of Ossipee Lake, crosses Route 16 and goes on Route 25 in West Ossipee for about a mile, then takes old route 25 and 113 into Tamworth Village.
We can eat at the picnic tables behind The Other Store (or the other store next to it...). You can buy food and/or ice cream there. After the lunch stop in Tamworth, return via Depot Road, the northern end of Silver Lake, East Madison Road, and up and over the hill back to King Pine.
The distance is 34 miles.
Meet at the King Pine Ski Area parking lot at 10:00 am, ready to ride.
For those from the Glen/Bartlett/Jackson area, meet for carpooling at the Grant's (old Dunkin Donuts location) parking lot at 9:00 am.
Here is a map:
The Lakes and Pine Barrens Ride starts at the King Pine Ski Area parking lot (across the street from the lifts), travels south down route 153, then goes east though the Ossipee Pine Barrens on Bennet Road. The route goes by Camp Calumet at the northern tip of Ossipee Lake, crosses Route 16 and goes on Route 25 in West Ossipee for about a mile, then takes old route 25 and 113 into Tamworth Village.
We can eat at the picnic tables behind The Other Store (or the other store next to it...). You can buy food and/or ice cream there. After the lunch stop in Tamworth, return via Depot Road, the northern end of Silver Lake, East Madison Road, and up and over the hill back to King Pine.
The distance is 34 miles.
Meet at the King Pine Ski Area parking lot at 10:00 am, ready to ride.
For those from the Glen/Bartlett/Jackson area, meet for carpooling at the Grant's (old Dunkin Donuts location) parking lot at 9:00 am.
Here is a map:
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Rain for Thursday, May 28
Unfortunately, the weather forecast does not look good for a bike ride on Thursday, so the the ride is cancelled. Let's hope for better next week!
However .........
Saturday looks good, so ride with the Velo Club! Check this season's new website for the Saturday Rides: http://www.mwvveloclub.org/ Click on the Calendar and the date for the details.
On this Saturday May 30th there is a choice of 3 very scenic rides:
For a long fast ride, Steve Blum is hosting a 65 mile ride from Twin Mountain to Lancaster to Lost Nation to Jefferson.
For the intermediate ride, DIck Pollock is hosting the 35 mile Cherry Mountain Loop (Zealand parking are to Jefferson via Route 115 and Israel's River Road.
For a shorter ride, Julia King is hosting the 14 mile Loop around the Mt. Washington Hotel: Crawford Notch parking area to Mt. Clinton Road to Base Road to Route 302.
Happy Biking!!!!
However .........
Saturday looks good, so ride with the Velo Club! Check this season's new website for the Saturday Rides: http://www.mwvveloclub.org/ Click on the Calendar and the date for the details.
On this Saturday May 30th there is a choice of 3 very scenic rides:
For a long fast ride, Steve Blum is hosting a 65 mile ride from Twin Mountain to Lancaster to Lost Nation to Jefferson.
For the intermediate ride, DIck Pollock is hosting the 35 mile Cherry Mountain Loop (Zealand parking are to Jefferson via Route 115 and Israel's River Road.
For a shorter ride, Julia King is hosting the 14 mile Loop around the Mt. Washington Hotel: Crawford Notch parking area to Mt. Clinton Road to Base Road to Route 302.
Happy Biking!!!!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Thursday, May 21
Franconia Notch Bike Path
The weather forecast for Thursday looks fantastic, so lets do an "away" ride over the hill to Lincoln and Franconia Notch. There have been requests for this ride over the past year or so and Thursday looks like a great day for it.
The bike path is wonderful - a paved path though the woods, great views, interesting stops along the way (view of where the Old Man used-to-be, The Basin, The New England Ski Museum, climbers on the sheer cliffs, the lakes, Cannon Mt.).
For the longer ride (approximately 32 miles), start out of the Loon Ski Area parking lot, ride on a quiet back road in residential Lincoln avoiding the busy Main Street (Pollard Rd; turn right of the Kanc by The Common Man Restaurant), then out onto Route 3 by Clark's Trading Post. Ride up Route 3 by the 1950's style motels and cabins and Indian Head to The Flume parking area where the bike path begins. It is about 6 miles to this point. The bike path starts at the upper, northern end of the parking lot; turn left as you enter the lot and ride up to the entrance way.
The bike path IS NOT a rail trail - it IS NOT flat - it will be a great use of all of the gears that you have on your bike. There are some short sharp ups, and short sharp downs, some sweeping turns, bridges and tunnels - all lending itself to a wonderful Disney World attraction for us. The way back is a smiling mostly downhill cruise. This is a great time of the year to ride this, as there are not many tourists, walkers, baby carriages, etc. on the path to get in our way!
For the shorter ride, just do the bike path. It is about 19 miles round trip from the Flume parking lot. Turn around earlier if you like.
For the Longer Ride: Ready-to-ride at the Loon Ski Area parking lot at 10:00 am
Enter the Loon parking lot at the Main entrance (by the train engine), cross the bridge then bear left up towards the main lodge. There is lots of parking available on the right side of the lot.
For the shorter ride: Meet the longer riders at The Flume Parking Lot near the bike path entrance between 10:45 and 11:00 am.
Carpooling: Meet at the Grants Parking lot in Glen at 8:30 am to load up. Pull out of the lot NO LATER than 8:50 am. Drive to Loon via Bear Notch Road and the Kanc.
There are bathroom facilities at The Flume and at various parking lots along the Bike Path. There is a snack bar/ice cream near the Ski Museum at Cannon Mt. but I am not sure if it is open yet. Bring water, food and snacks for a picnic either at the Ski Museum or by the lake.
This should be a great day!
Here is a map:
The weather forecast for Thursday looks fantastic, so lets do an "away" ride over the hill to Lincoln and Franconia Notch. There have been requests for this ride over the past year or so and Thursday looks like a great day for it.
The bike path is wonderful - a paved path though the woods, great views, interesting stops along the way (view of where the Old Man used-to-be, The Basin, The New England Ski Museum, climbers on the sheer cliffs, the lakes, Cannon Mt.).
For the longer ride (approximately 32 miles), start out of the Loon Ski Area parking lot, ride on a quiet back road in residential Lincoln avoiding the busy Main Street (Pollard Rd; turn right of the Kanc by The Common Man Restaurant), then out onto Route 3 by Clark's Trading Post. Ride up Route 3 by the 1950's style motels and cabins and Indian Head to The Flume parking area where the bike path begins. It is about 6 miles to this point. The bike path starts at the upper, northern end of the parking lot; turn left as you enter the lot and ride up to the entrance way.
The bike path IS NOT a rail trail - it IS NOT flat - it will be a great use of all of the gears that you have on your bike. There are some short sharp ups, and short sharp downs, some sweeping turns, bridges and tunnels - all lending itself to a wonderful Disney World attraction for us. The way back is a smiling mostly downhill cruise. This is a great time of the year to ride this, as there are not many tourists, walkers, baby carriages, etc. on the path to get in our way!
For the shorter ride, just do the bike path. It is about 19 miles round trip from the Flume parking lot. Turn around earlier if you like.
For the Longer Ride: Ready-to-ride at the Loon Ski Area parking lot at 10:00 am
Enter the Loon parking lot at the Main entrance (by the train engine), cross the bridge then bear left up towards the main lodge. There is lots of parking available on the right side of the lot.
For the shorter ride: Meet the longer riders at The Flume Parking Lot near the bike path entrance between 10:45 and 11:00 am.
Carpooling: Meet at the Grants Parking lot in Glen at 8:30 am to load up. Pull out of the lot NO LATER than 8:50 am. Drive to Loon via Bear Notch Road and the Kanc.
There are bathroom facilities at The Flume and at various parking lots along the Bike Path. There is a snack bar/ice cream near the Ski Museum at Cannon Mt. but I am not sure if it is open yet. Bring water, food and snacks for a picnic either at the Ski Museum or by the lake.
This should be a great day!
Here is a map:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Thursday, May 14
Apple Blossoms and Asparagus on the Snowville Loop
Springtime means green pastures, apple blossoms and fresh asparagus.
So, lets add some apple blossoms to Asparagus Hill....
On Monday I talked with Bruce Hatch (who has an apple orchard on Brownfield Road in South Conway) about the status of his apple blossoms, and he said they are starting to open. They will likely be open for us on Thursday as we ride by his farm. His farm is close to the Earle Family Farm, about 3.5 miles up from the intersection of Route 302 and Mill Street in Center Conway. Bruce has invited us to stop by his farm for a look at the flowers and, if you like, a walk up behind his house for a view of the valley.
Then - on to Asparagus Hill. Almost all of you know Asparagus Hill and have a story to tell about it. Either ride it or walk it - at least it is short and over with soon.
The Snowville Loop includes riding by Crystal Lake and a stop at the Eaton Store for snacks or lunch. I heard they are giving away the cabins across the street from the store ....anyone interested??
NOTE NEW MEETING PLACE:
Meet at the riverside parking lot behind the Conway Police Station on East Conway Road near the intersection with route 302. We will ride out from there following Route 302 to Center Conway, regroup at Bruce's Orchard then continue the loop through Snowville and again regroup at the Eaton Store. Return is via route 153 to Stark Road and back to the Police Station. By starting at the Police Station and returning via Stark Road, we avoid riding though traffic in Conway Village. Let's see how this alternate starting point works for us.
Ready to Ride at 10:00 am
Total Distance: 26 miles
Shorter Option: Go to Bruce's Orchard and return to the Police Station - total of 15 miles.
Here is a map:
Springtime means green pastures, apple blossoms and fresh asparagus.
So, lets add some apple blossoms to Asparagus Hill....
On Monday I talked with Bruce Hatch (who has an apple orchard on Brownfield Road in South Conway) about the status of his apple blossoms, and he said they are starting to open. They will likely be open for us on Thursday as we ride by his farm. His farm is close to the Earle Family Farm, about 3.5 miles up from the intersection of Route 302 and Mill Street in Center Conway. Bruce has invited us to stop by his farm for a look at the flowers and, if you like, a walk up behind his house for a view of the valley.
Then - on to Asparagus Hill. Almost all of you know Asparagus Hill and have a story to tell about it. Either ride it or walk it - at least it is short and over with soon.
The Snowville Loop includes riding by Crystal Lake and a stop at the Eaton Store for snacks or lunch. I heard they are giving away the cabins across the street from the store ....anyone interested??
NOTE NEW MEETING PLACE:
Meet at the riverside parking lot behind the Conway Police Station on East Conway Road near the intersection with route 302. We will ride out from there following Route 302 to Center Conway, regroup at Bruce's Orchard then continue the loop through Snowville and again regroup at the Eaton Store. Return is via route 153 to Stark Road and back to the Police Station. By starting at the Police Station and returning via Stark Road, we avoid riding though traffic in Conway Village. Let's see how this alternate starting point works for us.
Ready to Ride at 10:00 am
Total Distance: 26 miles
Shorter Option: Go to Bruce's Orchard and return to the Police Station - total of 15 miles.
Here is a map:
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Thursday, May 7
Ride Cancelled
Every weather report indicates rain (and a lot of it) for Thursday. Unfortunately the ride is cancelled.
Better weather for next week, I hope!!
Every weather report indicates rain (and a lot of it) for Thursday. Unfortunately the ride is cancelled.
Better weather for next week, I hope!!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Thursday April 30
Cruise Fryeburg Harbor
This is the ride to enjoy North Fryeburg Farms, Fields, Horses, Llamas and the Old Saco River. The forecast indicates that Thursday should be a great day to do it!!
Time: 10:00 Ready to Ride
Place: The Peace With-Inn, parking area on the left side of the Inn
The Peace With-Inn once again will allow us to park in their parking area, which is a great place to start the ride. The Inn is 7 miles from North Conway: Take East Conway Road past Sherman Farms, bear left onto Route 113 North. At Webster's Country Store bear right to continue north on 113, and continue 1 mile north to the Peace With-Inn, on the left. Here is more info on the Peace With-Inn:
http://www.peacewithinn.com/directions.htm
Anyone form Bartlett/Jackson want to carpool? Meet at Grant's Parking lot at 9:00 am.
Bring Lunch and/or snacks to eat - perhaps at the Stow Store front porch and parking lot? The store is still closed but it was bought last year and there is a glimmer of change in the area....
Route: there are many excellent options here!
For the longer ride - Cornshop Rd- Fish St - McNeil - Union Hill - Meadow - Stow Store and the 113B loop, then back via Union Hill, Harbor and 113 South (30 miles). To make it even longer, from the Stow Store, keep North on 113 as far as you like -- Evans Notch? To make it shorter, eliminate the loop north of the Stow Store and return via 113 South (20 miles).
For an even shorter ride - as above, but after McNeil, Return to 113 by Harbor Road and take 113 south back to the Peace With-Inn (~15 almost flat miles).
Here is a map:
This is the ride to enjoy North Fryeburg Farms, Fields, Horses, Llamas and the Old Saco River. The forecast indicates that Thursday should be a great day to do it!!
Time: 10:00 Ready to Ride
Place: The Peace With-Inn, parking area on the left side of the Inn
The Peace With-Inn once again will allow us to park in their parking area, which is a great place to start the ride. The Inn is 7 miles from North Conway: Take East Conway Road past Sherman Farms, bear left onto Route 113 North. At Webster's Country Store bear right to continue north on 113, and continue 1 mile north to the Peace With-Inn, on the left. Here is more info on the Peace With-Inn:
http://www.peacewithinn.com/directions.htm
Anyone form Bartlett/Jackson want to carpool? Meet at Grant's Parking lot at 9:00 am.
Bring Lunch and/or snacks to eat - perhaps at the Stow Store front porch and parking lot? The store is still closed but it was bought last year and there is a glimmer of change in the area....
Route: there are many excellent options here!
For the longer ride - Cornshop Rd- Fish St - McNeil - Union Hill - Meadow - Stow Store and the 113B loop, then back via Union Hill, Harbor and 113 South (30 miles). To make it even longer, from the Stow Store, keep North on 113 as far as you like -- Evans Notch? To make it shorter, eliminate the loop north of the Stow Store and return via 113 South (20 miles).
For an even shorter ride - as above, but after McNeil, Return to 113 by Harbor Road and take 113 south back to the Peace With-Inn (~15 almost flat miles).
Here is a map:
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Thursday April 23
What's the weather going to do tomorrow???
Well, the weather forecast is being difficult! Argh!!
Looks like the best chance for good weather is in the afternoon. So I will give this a try...
Well, the weather forecast is being difficult! Argh!!
Looks like the best chance for good weather is in the afternoon. So I will give this a try...
How about 1:00 pm, ready to ride, at the Attitiash parking lot, across from the main lifts?
Look out your window and make your own decision about the weather and show up or not -- could be clearing, could be windy, could be raining???? -- anything can happen! We can do Bear Notch Road or River Road depending on the weather and the folks who show up!
If it does not work out, join in on the Velo Club ride on Saturday - "Crank Some Crawford", also leaving out of the Attitash parking lot, but at 10:00 am. Guaranteed perfect weather on Saturday!! See the blogsite: www.velorides.blogspot.com for more information on ride options.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Flat Tire Fixing Workshop
Want to learn how to fix a flat?
Need a review on how to do it?
Come to a workshop hosted by Bob Kent!
Monday, April 20th at 3:00
Jackson Town Hall, across from the Post Office
Bring your bike - or ride it to the event!!
Need a review on how to do it?
Come to a workshop hosted by Bob Kent!
Monday, April 20th at 3:00
Jackson Town Hall, across from the Post Office
Bring your bike - or ride it to the event!!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
First Thursday Ride of 2009!
Welcome to the 2009 Bike Season!!!
Anyone anxious to get that bike out and start your explorations and adventures for the new season????
How about an short, local, easy one this Thursday in the sunny weather???? This is our classic first ride of the season!
Let's meet at the public parking lot behind the Eastern Slope Inn (entrance is just after the railroad bridge on River Road) ready to ride at 10:00 am.
I will have a pump and some lube if you need help with your tires and chain. Even if you cleaned and lubed your bike last fall, you still need to lube that chain again!
The ride is the valley classic -- West Side Road to Allen's Siding to Passaconaway Road. This should be an easy way to get us back in the saddle again and get together with all our biking friends!
Passaconaway probably will be gated and closed near the western end due to the snow. We can turn around there and head back to the Dugway Picnic Area to have our snacks by the Swift River. If the snow is gone, we can ride up to the covered bridge. The total miles is about 21, but you if you want fewer miles, just stop at the Dugway Picnic Area and you'll cut off about 4 miles.
Also, thinking ahead to adventures in the summer...
The Bon Ton Roulet is a one week supported bicycle tour of the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. There are at least 5 ThursdayBike riders already signed up for this. It would be fun to have more join in!!! It is from July 26 th to August 1st - see the details at http://www.bontonroulet.com/
If you want to comment on any of these blog posts, or comment on a particular ride or whatever, click on "comments" located at the bottom of the post. The text will be read by me first and then I can post it for all to see.
Below is a link to the map on Map My Ride:
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Biking and Bon Ton Roulet
Hi Everyone!
As I took my skis out of the car in Jackson today, a bike and rider passed by. A sloppy, wet, sandy, salty, spray flew from the wheels -- luckily for the rider, the bike had fenders... not so luckily for the bike to be immersed in the brine...
This reminded me that biking is about a month away -- the start of the bike season meshing with spring skiing season. Start looking for the ThursdayBike postings on this site when the roads clean up - likely by mid April.
ThursdayBike will be set up just as it was done last year. I will post rides, times, meeting places and maps on Tuesday or Wednesday nights on this site once I have a good feeling about the weather forecast for Thursday.
Anyone want to host their favorite ride? Want to host a new ride?? GREAT!! Contact me and you will be on the schedule!!!
For a summer vacation on your bike...The Bon Ton Roulet is a supported bicycle tour of the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. There are a few ThursdayBike riders signed up for this. It would be fun to have more join in!!!
It is from July 26 th to August 1st - see the details at http://www.bontonroulet.com/
If you want to comment on any of these blog posts, or comment on a particular ride or whatever, click on "comments" located at the bottom of the post. The text will be read by me first and then I can post it for all to see.
As I took my skis out of the car in Jackson today, a bike and rider passed by. A sloppy, wet, sandy, salty, spray flew from the wheels -- luckily for the rider, the bike had fenders... not so luckily for the bike to be immersed in the brine...
This reminded me that biking is about a month away -- the start of the bike season meshing with spring skiing season. Start looking for the ThursdayBike postings on this site when the roads clean up - likely by mid April.
ThursdayBike will be set up just as it was done last year. I will post rides, times, meeting places and maps on Tuesday or Wednesday nights on this site once I have a good feeling about the weather forecast for Thursday.
Anyone want to host their favorite ride? Want to host a new ride?? GREAT!! Contact me and you will be on the schedule!!!
For a summer vacation on your bike...The Bon Ton Roulet is a supported bicycle tour of the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. There are a few ThursdayBike riders signed up for this. It would be fun to have more join in!!!
It is from July 26 th to August 1st - see the details at http://www.bontonroulet.com/
If you want to comment on any of these blog posts, or comment on a particular ride or whatever, click on "comments" located at the bottom of the post. The text will be read by me first and then I can post it for all to see.
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