Cross Country Day 67: Syracuse to Frankfort

Today I hid under a bridge

It rained over night so I left the hotel at my usual ish time of 9ish and headed back onto the Empire State Trail. We've been using it to get across New York and it's been well thought out. It's signed well and takes you along protected paths and bike lanes regardless of if you are in the major metros or in the countryside. I have a feeling I would be able to navigate it even if I didn't have my bike computer.

Our journey took us back along the Erie Canal through the Old Historic Erie Canal State Park. I learned that while sections of the original canal have become unused many portions and feeder canals can still be considered on line because they link back to to the main barge canal that is still in use today.

The rain had one more surprise shot today that had me seeking cover under a bridge. I got rained on pretty heavily for about 20 min and then was able to hang out for another 20-30 minutes. It was nice to see the rain fall and as vehicles went overhead they would splash rain off the edges into the water below.

The rain eventually passed and so did the nice cooler temps. I swear the moment the sun hit the humidity spiked at least 15%. So soggy, muggy riding it was. I did though greatly enjoy riding through the puddles. The trail around here has a solid enough base that the puddles don't turn into mud holes.

Quick lunch in Rome after which I discovered Ft. Stanwix National Monument. The fort was ok and frankly I was disappointed in the signage as it told me nothing about why this fort was important. After doing some of my own research I learned that this fort is known as the fort that didn't surrender during a revolutionary war siege in 1877. Also it may have been one of the first forts over which the American flag was flown.

After lunch it was on to Frankfort. We heard there was free camping in the park, just stop by the brewery to get the code for the bathrooms. Say no more that had to be our destination. The beer was good and the conversation lively. I knew we were in the right place when one of the gals yelled across to the bartender who busy making a wine slushy for her "quiet that blender. I'm trying to order pizza". It was bingo night and you got a card with your 1st beer. Jeff even won a round.

Otherwise today was largely uneventful. Just peaceful quiet riding along the canal. Tomorrow towards Schenectady and a day off.

'til next time

-Matt