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Main
Date: 17 Jan 2007 18:48:12
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Rail Trails
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Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
"Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to it.
This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots weren't
so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone know
of anything longer?
Jeff
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Date: 28 Jan 2007 13:45:25
From: Mike Causer
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
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On Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:32:47 -0800, Dan B. wrote:
> Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
> chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
> metaled.
That is "sealed". "Road metal" is broken stone, which could be crushed
and rolled flat, or just thrown down. I would take it that "metaled
road" does imply some sort of smooth-ish surface but not necessarily
sealed.
> The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
> Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
> ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
> nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
> pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
> material cost and labor to put in place.
These are becoming more common in the UK, particularly to improve old
footpaths, river-side towpaths and old rail beds. The surface is OK,
but has a tendency to wash away in storms, and of course horses can cut
it up badly.
Here's a local one: http://www.camcycle.org.uk/map/location/10320/
Mike
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Date: 24 Jan 2007 11:12:44
From: JimmyMac
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
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I enjoyed the pictures. Is there any wildlife along that trai?. Being
rural, along the route I described, there are lots of indigenous
species to encounter, including but not limited to ... rabbit,
squirrel, chipmunk, raccoon, deer and and an occasional skunk, fox,
woodchuck (groundhog), coyote, turtle, frog, toad and a very wide
variety of birds.
Jim
On Jan 24, 10:05 am, "Jeff Grippe" <jgri...@hilldun.com > wrote:
> I have done sections of the GAP and there is a thread about it in this ng.
> If you want to see pictures from that trip go to
>
> http://groups.msn.com/grippesphotos/railtrail2005.msnw
>
> That trip from 2005 include a trail in MD that was paved, Several sections
> of the GAP, and some trails in Morgantown, WV which are not part of the GAP
> but were quite fun to ride.
>
> Jeff
>
> PS there are also pictures of what is left of my trike, etc.
>
> "JimmyMac" <jimmyma...@yahoo.com> wrote in messagenews:1169651166.413142.210400@a75g2000cwd.googlegroups.com...
>
>
>
> > Jeff Grippe wrote:
> >> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
> >> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to
> >> it.
> >> This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
> >> Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
> >> portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots
> >> weren't
> >> so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>
> >> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone
> >> know
> >> of anything longer?
>
> >> Jeff
>
> > That's one long trail and probably more suitable for commuting than a
> > daily jaunt simply because of its length. If ever you explore more of
> > it, I'd like to hear your impression. Fortunately, I live near the far
> > northern end of Chicago removed from the busier urban area, so I am
> > able to take advantage of rural trails and rural roads without even
> > having to drive to a starting point. The trail I previously mentioned
> > that parallels the north branch of the Chicago river through the forest
> > preserves, is only 2.3 miles from my house and extend for 15+ mile up
> > into a beautiful botanical garden. From there, one can ride another 1
> > 1/2 miles on the road to another trail that extends another 8 miles and
> > runs along side a railroad track. At its end, it is a ride of less
> > than a mil to link up with still another trail that also run along
> > sided of another railroad track. Along the serene, rural route, the
> > rustic scenery constantly changes as one passes by and/or along rivers,
> > gardens, golf courses, riding stables and farms. Round trip is around
> > 70 miles and only about 10 of those miles (read approximately 14%) are
> > on the road, but I am comfortable riding roads. If anyone is ever down
> > my way I'd be more that happy to ride this route with them.
>
> > Jim
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Date: 24 Jan 2007 07:06:06
From: JimmyMac
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
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Jeff Grippe wrote:
> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to it.
> This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
> Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
> portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots weren't
> so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>
> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone know
> of anything longer?
>
> Jeff
That's one long trail and probably more suitable for commuting than a
daily jaunt simply because of its length. If ever you explore more of
it, I'd like to hear your impression. Fortunately, I live near the far
northern end of Chicago removed from the busier urban area, so I am
able to take advantage of rural trails and rural roads without even
having to drive to a starting point. The trail I previously mentioned
that parallels the north branch of the Chicago river through the forest
preserves, is only 2.3 miles from my house and extend for 15+ mile up
into a beautiful botanical garden. From there, one can ride another 1
1/2 miles on the road to another trail that extends another 8 miles and
runs along side a railroad track. At its end, it is a ride of less
than a mil to link up with still another trail that also run along
sided of another railroad track. Along the serene, rural route, the
rustic scenery constantly changes as one passes by and/or along rivers,
gardens, golf courses, riding stables and farms. Round trip is around
70 miles and only about 10 of those miles (read approximately 14%) are
on the road, but I am comfortable riding roads. If anyone is ever down
my way I'd be more that happy to ride this route with them.
Jim
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Date: 24 Jan 2007 11:05:48
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
I have done sections of the GAP and there is a thread about it in this ng.
If you want to see pictures from that trip go to
http://groups.msn.com/grippesphotos/railtrail2005.msnw
That trip from 2005 include a trail in MD that was paved, Several sections
of the GAP, and some trails in Morgantown, WV which are not part of the GAP
but were quite fun to ride.
Jeff
PS there are also pictures of what is left of my trike, etc.
"JimmyMac" <jimmymac_4@yahoo.com > wrote in message
news:1169651166.413142.210400@a75g2000cwd.googlegroups.com...
>
> Jeff Grippe wrote:
>> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
>> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to
>> it.
>> This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
>> Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
>> portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots
>> weren't
>> so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>>
>> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone
>> know
>> of anything longer?
>>
>> Jeff
>
> That's one long trail and probably more suitable for commuting than a
> daily jaunt simply because of its length. If ever you explore more of
> it, I'd like to hear your impression. Fortunately, I live near the far
> northern end of Chicago removed from the busier urban area, so I am
> able to take advantage of rural trails and rural roads without even
> having to drive to a starting point. The trail I previously mentioned
> that parallels the north branch of the Chicago river through the forest
> preserves, is only 2.3 miles from my house and extend for 15+ mile up
> into a beautiful botanical garden. From there, one can ride another 1
> 1/2 miles on the road to another trail that extends another 8 miles and
> runs along side a railroad track. At its end, it is a ride of less
> than a mil to link up with still another trail that also run along
> sided of another railroad track. Along the serene, rural route, the
> rustic scenery constantly changes as one passes by and/or along rivers,
> gardens, golf courses, riding stables and farms. Round trip is around
> 70 miles and only about 10 of those miles (read approximately 14%) are
> on the road, but I am comfortable riding roads. If anyone is ever down
> my way I'd be more that happy to ride this route with them.
>
> Jim
>
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 12:46:51
From: Dan B.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
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Jeff Grippe wrote:
> Do you have any detail? I'd consider buying some to build on later.
>
> Jeff
<snip >
Sadly, no...this is memory based on a ride last year. I noticed the
lots for sale, but neglected to make a note of the telephone number.
I'd imagine that a realtor in the Connellsville region might be able to
help you out, however, or have a better idea where to look. If you told
them that you were looking for property on or near the Yough River and
the trail, I'm sure they'd be capable of finding such things.
Best,
Dan
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 09:08:55
From: JimmyMac
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Ken C. M. wrote:
> Jeff Grippe wrote:
> > Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
> > "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to it.
> > This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
> > Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
> > portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots weren't
> > so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
> >
> > I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone know
> > of anything longer?
> >
> > Jeff
> >
> >
>
> I know there are longer trails out there, but one of my favorites (so
> far) is the Withlacoochee (sp?) trail in central FL. It's only 46 miles
> but it's well maintained and has lots of nice shady rest stops along the
> way.
>
> Ken
> --
> The bicycle is just as good company as most husbands and, when it gets
> old and shabby, a woman can dispose of it and get a new one without
> shocking the entire community. ~Ann Strong
We do have some nice paved trails here in Illinois. I am fortunate to
be located reasonably close to one that parallels the north branch of
the Chicago river through forest preserves and another that follows
along the Lake Michigan shorline.
Jim McNaa
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Date: 24 Jan 2007 03:13:50
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"JimmyMac" <jimmymac_4@yahoo.com > wrote in message
news:1169572135.569324.194790@s48g2000cws.googlegroups.com...
>
> Ken C. M. wrote:
>> Jeff Grippe wrote:
>> > Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
>> > "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close
>> > to it.
>> > This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh
>> > to
>> > Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I
>> > rode
>> > portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots
>> > weren't
>> > so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>> >
>> > I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone
>> > know
>> > of anything longer?
>>
>> I know there are longer trails out there, but one of my favorites (so
>> far) is the Withlacoochee (sp?) trail in central FL. It's only 46 miles
>> but it's well maintained and has lots of nice shady rest stops along the
>> way.
>
> We do have some nice paved trails here in Illinois. I am fortunate to
> be located reasonably close to one that parallels the north branch of
> the Chicago river [River] through forest preserves and another that
> follows
> along the Lake Michigan shorline [shoreline].
Jeff is not interested in urban bike trails. He lives just north of New York
City and there are plenty of bike trials like the ones you think are so
great near him already. He wants some rural trails to ride. Maybe if you got
out of your freaking Chicagoland every now and then you would know your ass
from a hole in the ground, but admittedly, that is a long shot.
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
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Date: 24 Jan 2007 09:55:11
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net > wrote in message
news:s_KdnfqV7Mf_virYnZ2dnUVZ_oOonZ2d@prairiewave.com...
>
> Jeff is not interested in urban bike trails. He lives just north of New
> York City and there are plenty of bike trials like the ones you think are
> so great near him already. He wants some rural trails to ride. Maybe if
> you got out of your freaking Chicagoland every now and then you would know
> your ass from a hole in the ground, but admittedly, that is a long shot.
Don't speak for me Ed. You may be a saint but you aren't my saint. There are
trails now that go up and down both the east side and west side of Manhattan
and I believe that they will soon connect at the battery downtown.
I've ridden the west side trail. It was absolutely delightful. Once I'm
better I'm looking forward to riding the whole thing from the upper west
side, around the batter, and up the east side.
I've ridden the 5 boro bike tour many times and always enjoyed.
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Date: 26 Jan 2007 09:09:31
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Jeff Grippe" <jgrippe@hilldun.com > wrote in message
news:12ret2u520beh1f@news.supernews.com...
>
> "Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net> wrote in message
> news:s_KdnfqV7Mf_virYnZ2dnUVZ_oOonZ2d@prairiewave.com...
>>
>> Jeff is not interested in urban bike trails. He lives just north of New
>> York City and there are plenty of bike trails like the ones you think are
>> so great near him already. He wants some rural trails to ride. Maybe if
>> you got out of your freaking Chicagoland every now and then you would
>> know your ass from a hole in the ground, but admittedly, that is a long
>> shot.
>
> Don't speak for me Ed. You may be a saint but you aren't my saint. There
> are trails now that go up and down both the east side and west side of
> Manhattan and I believe that they will soon connect at the battery
> downtown.
>
> I've ridden the west side trail. It was absolutely delightful. Once I'm
> better I'm looking forward to riding the whole thing from the upper west
> side, around the batter, and up the east side.
>
> I've ridden the 5 boro bike tour many times and always enjoyed [it].
Those urban bike trails in NYC are like the ones that exist in Chicago.
If all Jeff wants is to ride some urban bike trails, he should stay where he
is at. There are no better urban bike trails anywhere in the nation than
those in NYC.
Yea, leave the rural trails to those of us who know how to appreciate them.
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 16:39:54
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"JimmyMac" <jimmymac_4@yahoo.com > wrote in message
news:1169572135.569324.194790@s48g2000cws.googlegroups.com...
>
> Ken C. M. wrote:
>> Jeff Grippe wrote:
>> > Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
>> > "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close
>> > to it.
>> > This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh
>> > to
>> > Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I
>> > rode
>> > portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots
>> > weren't
>> > so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>> >
>> > I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone
>> > know
>> > of anything longer?
>>
>> I know there are longer trails out there, but one of my favorites (so
>> far) is the Withlacoochee (sp?) trail in central FL. It's only 46 miles
>> but it's well maintained and has lots of nice shady rest stops along the
>> way.
>
> We do have some nice paved trails here in Illinois. I am fortunate to
> be located reasonably close to one that parallels the north branch of
> the Chicago river through forest preserves and another that follows
> along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Those are urban trails and they cannot compare with rural trails. Sometimes
I feel so sorry for those who are restricted to the metros. They know not
the natural beauty that you can only get away from the infernal city.
I invite Jim McNaa to Minnesota and we will go biking on some rural trals
that will open up a whole new world to him. Perry Butler of Fergus Falls
also knows of these trails and he might be a better traveling companion for
Jim, but infinitely duller.
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 07:10:39
From: JimmyMac
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff,
Minnesota is a good recommendation if it is convenient. I've thought
of going up there to ride some fo the trails myself. It is a state
that is very dedicated to bicycle trail development. Check out these
links:
http://www.great-trails.com/minnesota.shtml
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/950909.html
On the other hand, it is a northerly state (think winter) and
consequently trails cannot be enjoyed year round, but look what's going
on during the off season ... ice racing:
http://mnhpva.org/ice/Ice2007Info.html
http://mnhpva.org/ice/Ice.html
Jim McNaa
Jeff Grippe wrote:
> "Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net> wrote in message
> news:OrednRz5Rt5I1yjYnZ2dnUVZ_rmdnZ2d@prairiewave.com...
> >
> > What's a "best friend?" Never heard of such a creature!
> >
>
> I have moved most of your off topic stuff over to an off topic thread as the
> general agreement is to keep off topic stuff separate.
>
> >> I'm not really sure how much I'll be able to ride in the future but I'm
> >> optimistic.
> >
> > You want lots of shorter rail trails, not a single long rail trail.
> >
>
> You may be right about this, however, a long trail can be several short
> ones. You just have to start in a different place.
>
> Here's the thing, however. I really enjoy longer rides. I don't ride for
> exercise (although I might if I lived by a rail trail). I ride for pleasure.
> I like to spend the day on the bike if I can. Back when I was commuting and
> the weather was good I would always look for long routes home from the train
> station. I think living along the GAP would be ideal for me unless I can
> find a long rail trail someplace I'd prefer living even more. Unless my
> friend moves, however, that isn't likely.
>
> Jeff
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 09:23:26
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"JimmyMac" <jimmymac_4@yahoo.com > wrote in message
news:1169565038.911218.223800@l53g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Jeff,
>
> Minnesota is a good recommendation if it is convenient. I've thought
> of going up there to ride some fo the trails myself. It is a state
> that is very dedicated to bicycle trail development. Check out these
> links:
>
> http://www.great-trails.com/minnesota.shtml
> http://www.startribune.com/462/story/950909.html
I do not think there is a better state anywhere in the land than Minnesota
when it comes to bike trails. Wisconsin is overrated for sure. Folks from
Chicagoland are always coming to Minnesota in order to ride our bike trails.
> On the other hand, it is a northerly state (think winter) and
> consequently trails cannot be enjoyed year round, but look what's going
> on during the off season ... ice racing:
>
> http://mnhpva.org/ice/Ice2007Info.html
> http://mnhpva.org/ice/Ice.html
I know several who are involved in the above foolishness and they are all
idiots. Stay the hell away from them!
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 06:26:23
From: JimmyMac
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Dan B. wrote:
> Buck wrote:
> <snip>
> > I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
> > U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
> > obviously a consideration.
> <snip>
>
> Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
> chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
> metaled. (If my assumption is incorrect, chalk it up to a Colonial
> upbringing...)
>
> The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
> Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
> ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
> nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
> pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
> material cost and labor to put in place.
I once read what the cost for paving was per squae foot or yard, but I
just dont' recall the figure. I do remember though being surprised at
just how costly it was. Recycled tires and roofing shingles broght the
cost down considerably, but it was still steep. I prefer asphalt
pavement because crushed limestone (limestone screenings) can wreak
havoc with the bicycle drive train (think wear and tear) and getting
caught on such a trail in the rain leaves the bike and clothes looking
like they just came out of a cement mixer.
Jim McNaa
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Date: 23 Jan 2007 04:57:40
From: Dan B.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff Grippe wrote:
<snip >
>
> Here's the thing, however. I really enjoy longer rides. I don't ride for
> exercise (although I might if I lived by a rail trail). I ride for pleasure.
> I like to spend the day on the bike if I can. Back when I was commuting and
> the weather was good I would always look for long routes home from the train
> station. I think living along the GAP would be ideal for me unless I can
> find a long rail trail someplace I'd prefer living even more. Unless my
> friend moves, however, that isn't likely.
>
> Jeff
As of last year, there were several parcels of land available along the
Yough River Trail (roughly 1-2 acres apiece, city water and sewage, no
structures yet built), sandwiched between the river and the trail near
Connellsville, ~30 miles down the trail from McKeesport. I have no idea
how much such property would cost, but it looked mighty
tempting...hiking and cycling on one side, gentle river for canoeing,
kayaking, or fishing on the other...*sigh*
On a semi-unrelated note, the 6th annual Greenway Sojourn will be
taking place late June of this year. 7 days of supported cycling along
the C&O Canal and the GAP, capped off by a police escort for the nine
miles of on-road riding from Mckeesport to Pittsburgh. Not an
inexpensive ride, but looks like a nice, relaxing week.
Details at
http://www.railtrails.org/wherewework/northeast/news/nereg_news_2007Sojourn.html.
Best,
Dan
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| | |
Date: 23 Jan 2007 12:47:16
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Do you have any detail? I'd consider buying some to build on later.
Jeff
"Dan B." <dan.blumenfeld@gmail.com > wrote in message
news:1169557060.025178.34920@v45g2000cwv.googlegroups.com...
> Jeff Grippe wrote:
> <snip>
>>
>> Here's the thing, however. I really enjoy longer rides. I don't ride for
>> exercise (although I might if I lived by a rail trail). I ride for
>> pleasure.
>> I like to spend the day on the bike if I can. Back when I was commuting
>> and
>> the weather was good I would always look for long routes home from the
>> train
>> station. I think living along the GAP would be ideal for me unless I can
>> find a long rail trail someplace I'd prefer living even more. Unless my
>> friend moves, however, that isn't likely.
>>
>> Jeff
>
> As of last year, there were several parcels of land available along the
> Yough River Trail (roughly 1-2 acres apiece, city water and sewage, no
> structures yet built), sandwiched between the river and the trail near
> Connellsville, ~30 miles down the trail from McKeesport. I have no idea
> how much such property would cost, but it looked mighty
> tempting...hiking and cycling on one side, gentle river for canoeing,
> kayaking, or fishing on the other...*sigh*
>
> On a semi-unrelated note, the 6th annual Greenway Sojourn will be
> taking place late June of this year. 7 days of supported cycling along
> the C&O Canal and the GAP, capped off by a police escort for the nine
> miles of on-road riding from Mckeesport to Pittsburgh. Not an
> inexpensive ride, but looks like a nice, relaxing week.
> Details at
> http://www.railtrails.org/wherewework/northeast/news/nereg_news_2007Sojourn.html.
>
> Best,
>
> Dan
>
|
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Date: 20 Jan 2007 18:24:56
From:
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff Grippe:
The Katy Trail http://www.bikekatytrail.com/ is a 225 mile (365 km)
bike path stretching across most of the state of Missouri. "Over half
of it follows Lewis and Clark's path up the Missouri River, where you
can ride beneath towering river bluffs while eagles circle overhead.
After leaving the river, the trail meanders through peaceful farmland
and small-town Americana." Surface is crushed rock.
I have ridden a little of it and want to go back for a long multi-day
ride, stopping in small towns at inns.
This is a big country and that's only one of the bike/walk/hike roads
available. Check out http://www.railtrails.org/index.html for other
flat rides, including the Withlacoochie (paved). And the C&O Canal
path connecting to the GAP, 184 miles.
CC
|
| | |
Date: 21 Jan 2007 07:18:21
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Thank you.
The Katy Trail looks great and their web site is first rate.
The railtrails.org web site is not useful for answering the question about
which rail trail is the longest, however, they are a great group doing
important work.
I have been thinking that when I retire, which I'm hoping would be when my
son graduate from college (8-10 years from now). That I would like to move
to someplace along the GAP. My best friend lives in Towson, MD. I'd like to
be closer to him and someplace where I can easily get to miles and miles of
riding. It is the only way I can imagine being able to ride again on a
regular basis since I refuse to ever play in traffic again.
Jeff
<carolrcohen@gmail.com > wrote in message
news:1169346296.303156.138410@11g2000cwr.googlegroups.com...
> Jeff Grippe:
>
> The Katy Trail http://www.bikekatytrail.com/ is a 225 mile (365 km)
> bike path stretching across most of the state of Missouri. "Over half
> of it follows Lewis and Clark's path up the Missouri River, where you
> can ride beneath towering river bluffs while eagles circle overhead.
> After leaving the river, the trail meanders through peaceful farmland
> and small-town Americana." Surface is crushed rock.
>
> I have ridden a little of it and want to go back for a long multi-day
> ride, stopping in small towns at inns.
>
> This is a big country and that's only one of the bike/walk/hike roads
> available. Check out http://www.railtrails.org/index.html for other
> flat rides, including the Withlacoochie (paved). And the C&O Canal
> path connecting to the GAP, 184 miles.
>
> CC
>
|
| | | |
Date: 21 Jan 2007 07:09:37
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Jeff Grippe" <jeff@door7.com > wrote in message
news:12r6mgd7m9hvrec@news.supernews.com...
> Thank you.
>
> The Katy Trail looks great and their web site is first rate.
>
> The railtrails.org web site is not useful for answering the question about
> which rail trail is the longest, however, they are a great group doing
> important work.
>
> I have been thinking that when I retire, which I'm hoping would be when my
> son graduate from college (8-10 years from now). That I would like to move
> to someplace along the GAP. My best friend lives in Towson, MD. I'd like
> to be closer to him and someplace where I can easily get to miles and
> miles of riding. It is the only way I can imagine being able to ride again
> on a regular basis since I refuse to ever play in traffic again.
You do not necessarily want a long rail trail. Shorter ones with lots of
variety are what is called for. I recommend Minnesota, at least for 3
seasons of the year. There are several rail trails in the SE area and also
in the center of the state near Park Rapids. Settle there or in Lanesboro
and you will have plenty of rail trails to ride for the rest of your life.
Unlike Wisconsin, almost all of the Minnesota rail trails are paved.
You need not worry about ever running into me as I will be resting
peacefully in my grave at the local cemetery in 10 years. However, if you
are so bold as to visit my gravesite, I will haunt you. Yea, ever fearsome
to the bitter end!
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
|
| | | | |
Date: 21 Jan 2007 13:12:01
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net > wrote in message
news:kfudnR86CYy9-y7YnZ2dnUVZ_tSunZ2d@prairiewave.com...
>
>
> You do not necessarily want a long rail trail. Shorter ones with lots of
> variety are what is called for. I recommend Minnesota, at least for 3
> seasons of the year. There are several rail trails in the SE area and also
> in the center of the state near Park Rapids. Settle there or in Lanesboro
> and you will have plenty of rail trails to ride for the rest of your life.
> Unlike Wisconsin, almost all of the Minnesota rail trails are paved.
>
> You need not worry about ever running into me as I will be resting
> peacefully in my grave at the local cemetery in 10 years. However, if you
> are so bold as to visit my gravesite, I will haunt you. Yea, ever fearsome
> to the bitter end!
>
What you say may be so but as I said earlier, my best friend lives in
Towson, MD and that is another consideration regarding where I live. If I
lived in MN, It would not be convenient to go visit.
I'm not really sure how much I'll be able to ride in the future but I'm
optimistic.
As far as running into you goes, I think you'd probably be a fine person to
ride with. I also have no worries about being haunted as like your good
self, I don't believe that the dead are among us. I will always remember
you, however.
Jeff
|
| | | | | |
Date: 22 Jan 2007 17:37:39
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Jeff Grippe" <jeff@door7.com > wrote in message
news:12r7b7he1r8t0e4@news.supernews.com...
>
> "Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net> wrote in message
> news:kfudnR86CYy9-y7YnZ2dnUVZ_tSunZ2d@prairiewave.com...
>>
>>
>> You do not necessarily want a long rail trail. Shorter ones with lots of
>> variety are what is called for. I recommend Minnesota, at least for 3
>> seasons of the year. There are several rail trails in the SE area and
>> also in the center of the state near Park Rapids. Settle there or in
>> Lanesboro and you will have plenty of rail trails to ride for the rest of
>> your life. Unlike Wisconsin, almost all of the Minnesota rail trails are
>> paved.
>>
>> You need not worry about ever running into me as I will be resting
>> peacefully in my grave at the local cemetery in 10 years. However, if you
>> are so bold as to visit my gravesite, I will haunt you. Yea, ever
>> fearsome to the bitter end!
>>
> What you say may be so but as I said earlier, my best friend lives in
> Towson, MD and that is another consideration regarding where I live. If I
> lived in MN, It would not be convenient to go visit.
What's a "best friend?" Never heard of such a creature!
> I'm not really sure how much I'll be able to ride in the future but I'm
> optimistic.
You want lots of shorter rail trails, not a single long rail trail.
> As far as running into you goes, I think you'd probably be a fine person
> to ride with. I also have no worries about being haunted as like your good
> self, I don't believe that the dead are among us. I will always remember
> you, however.
I ask that when you visit my graveside that you not piss on my grave. After
all, that is only something I would do, not a fine Jewish gentleman like
yourself.
By the way, a Jew who is not religious is a contradiction in terms. Only we
fallen away Catholics know how to be atheists. I give you Hitler and Stalin
as sterling examples of the species.
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
|
| | | | | | |
Date: 23 Jan 2007 05:44:02
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net > wrote in message
news:OrednRz5Rt5I1yjYnZ2dnUVZ_rmdnZ2d@prairiewave.com...
>
> What's a "best friend?" Never heard of such a creature!
>
I have moved most of your off topic stuff over to an off topic thread as the
general agreement is to keep off topic stuff separate.
>> I'm not really sure how much I'll be able to ride in the future but I'm
>> optimistic.
>
> You want lots of shorter rail trails, not a single long rail trail.
>
You may be right about this, however, a long trail can be several short
ones. You just have to start in a different place.
Here's the thing, however. I really enjoy longer rides. I don't ride for
exercise (although I might if I lived by a rail trail). I ride for pleasure.
I like to spend the day on the bike if I can. Back when I was commuting and
the weather was good I would always look for long routes home from the train
station. I think living along the GAP would be ideal for me unless I can
find a long rail trail someplace I'd prefer living even more. Unless my
friend moves, however, that isn't likely.
Jeff
|
| | | | | | | |
Date: 23 Jan 2007 07:57:59
From: Edward Dolan
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
"Jeff Grippe" <jeff@door7.com > wrote in message
news:12rbpnhqptm795b@news.supernews.com...
>
> "Edward Dolan" <edolan@iw.net> wrote in message
> news:OrednRz5Rt5I1yjYnZ2dnUVZ_rmdnZ2d@prairiewave.com...
[...]
>> You want lots of shorter rail trails, not a single long rail trail.
>>
>
> You may be right about this, however, a long trail can be several short
> ones. You just have to start in a different place.
>
> Here's the thing, however. I really enjoy longer rides. I don't ride for
> exercise (although I might if I lived by a rail trail). I ride for
> pleasure. I like to spend the day on the bike if I can. Back when I was
> commuting and the weather was good I would always look for long routes
> home from the train station. I think living along the GAP would be ideal
> for me unless I can find a long rail trail someplace I'd prefer living
> even more. Unless my friend moves, however, that isn't likely.
You not only want lots of shorter trails as opposed to one long trail, but
you also want trails you can access right out of your front door, not the
sort of trail you have to travel to get to. Trust me on this, as you get
older any kind of logistics is a royal pain in the you know where.
Also, in another 10 years you will be riding more for exercise than anything
else. Or do you think you are going to stay the same as you are now. What
you will do for pleasure is sit on your ass and look at TV and play with the
computer. That is now what I do and it is what you will do too. It is the
way of all flesh.
Regards,
Ed Dolan the Great - Minnesota
aka
Saint Edward the Great - Order of the Perpetual Sorrows - Minnesota
|
| | | |
Date: 21 Jan 2007 07:27:15
From: Ken C. M.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff Grippe wrote:
> Thank you.
>
> The Katy Trail looks great and their web site is first rate.
>
> The railtrails.org web site is not useful for answering the question about
> which rail trail is the longest, however, they are a great group doing
> important work.
>
Yeah I agree with you on that point. Which is why I have sent them money
for the last two years. Those rail beds make idea recreation trails.
They may get crowded once and a while, but they are still nice.
Ken
--
The bicycle is just as good company as most husbands and, when it gets
old and shabby, a woman can dispose of it and get a new one without
shocking the entire community. ~Ann Strong
|
| |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 13:17:46
From: Dan B.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
chuck wrote:
<snip >
> >
> What size tire do you use this time of year on the linestone? I just
> upsized to 1.75. While it helps the handling in the muck, I sure notice
> the extra weight. Judging by the depth of my tracks, I'm sure there's a
> little extra drag from the mud too. This freeze/thaw stuff really sucks
> in the limestone.
I generally go 1.5" in the winter, and drop my pressure to 75-80 psi.
Good weather, I'll go 1.125" and 100-110 psi
|
| |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 10:32:47
From: Dan B.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Buck wrote:
<snip >
> I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
> U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
> obviously a consideration.
<snip >
Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
metaled. (If my assumption is incorrect, chalk it up to a Colonial
upbringing...)
The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
material cost and labor to put in place.
|
| | |
Date: 19 Jan 2007 18:19:30
From: Buck
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
On 2007-01-18 18:32:47 +0000, "Dan B." <dan.blumenfeld@gmail.com > said:
>
> Buck wrote:
> <snip>
>> I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
>> U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
>> obviously a consideration.
> <snip>
>
> Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
> chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
> metaled. (If my assumption is incorrect, chalk it up to a Colonial
> upbringing...)
>
> The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
> Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
> ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
> nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
> pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
> material cost and labor to put in place.
Yes to metal them I mean to surface them, is that term not used
in the U.S.?
--
Three wheels good, two wheels ok
www.catrike.co.uk
|
| | | |
Date: 19 Jan 2007 15:10:44
From: Jeff Grippe
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Pave would probably be the preferred term here assuming that you are talking
about some hard surface.
Jeff
"Buck" <SPAMTRAPian@trikesandstuffDOT.coDOT.uk > wrote in message
news:2007011918205075249-SPAMTRAPian@trikesandstuffDOTcoDOTuk...
> On 2007-01-18 18:32:47 +0000, "Dan B." <dan.blumenfeld@gmail.com> said:
>
>>
>> Buck wrote:
>> <snip>
>>> I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
>>> U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
>>> obviously a consideration.
>> <snip>
>>
>> Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
>> chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
>> metaled. (If my assumption is incorrect, chalk it up to a Colonial
>> upbringing...)
>>
>> The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
>> Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
>> ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
>> nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
>> pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
>> material cost and labor to put in place.
>
> Yes to metal them I mean to surface them, is that term not used
> in the U.S.?
> --
> Three wheels good, two wheels ok
>
> www.catrike.co.uk
>
|
| | |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 19:42:11
From: chuck
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
On 2007-01-18, Dan B. <dan.blumenfeld@gmail.com > wrote:
>
> Buck wrote:
><snip>
>> I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
>> U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
>> obviously a consideration.
><snip>
>
> Assuming that "to metal them" refers to paving with asphalt, macadam,
> chipseal, or some related substance, most of the GAP has not been
> metaled. (If my assumption is incorrect, chalk it up to a Colonial
> upbringing...)
>
> The majority of the GAP, and most rail-trails in the southwestern
> Pennsylvania region, are made hiker/biker-friendly by removing rails,
> ties, and ballast, then spreading a thick bed of crushed limestone. Not
> nearly as nice to ride as smooth asphalt, but substantially more
> pleasant than gravel and dirt, and less expensive in terms of both
> material cost and labor to put in place.
>
What size tire do you use this time of year on the linestone? I just
upsized to 1.75. While it helps the handling in the muck, I sure notice
the extra weight. Judging by the depth of my tracks, I'm sure there's a
little extra drag from the mud too. This freeze/thaw stuff really sucks
in the limestone.
|
| |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 08:15:37
From: Ken C. M.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff Grippe wrote:
> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to it.
> This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
> Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
> portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots weren't
> so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>
> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone know
> of anything longer?
>
> Jeff
>
>
I know there are longer trails out there, but one of my favorites (so
far) is the Withlacoochee (sp?) trail in central FL. It's only 46 miles
but it's well maintained and has lots of nice shady rest stops along the
way.
Ken
--
The bicycle is just as good company as most husbands and, when it gets
old and shabby, a woman can dispose of it and get a new one without
shocking the entire community. ~Ann Strong
|
| | |
Date: 19 Jan 2007 13:10:50
From: Roger Zoul
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Ken C. M. wrote:
::
:: I know there are longer trails out there, but one of my favorites (so
:: far) is the Withlacoochee (sp?) trail in central FL. It's only 46
:: miles but it's well maintained and has lots of nice shady rest stops
:: along the way.
If that can become a 92-mile out and back, then I'm interested in this
trail. Which is it?
|
| |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 04:07:57
From: Dan B.
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
Jeff Grippe wrote:
> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to it.
> This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from Pittsburgh to
> Washington DC and never have to share the road with an automobile. I rode
> portions of it a few years ago and it was just a delight. Some spots weren't
> so pretty but most of it was and all of it was car free.
>
> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone know
> of anything longer?
>
> Jeff
The GAP is complete (to my knowledge) except for the first 9-mile
stretch from Pittsburgh to McKeesport. There are some issues with
private property owners that need to be resolved before the last few
miles are continuous. However, as far as I know, the intention is to
have the trail complete in 2008. More info is available at the ATA
website (http://www.atatrail.org/).
Best,
Dan
|
| | |
Date: 18 Jan 2007 16:51:05
From: Buck
Subject: Re: Rail Trails
|
On 01/18/2007 12:07:57 "Dan B." <dan.blumenfeld@gmail.com > wrote:
> Jeff Grippe wrote:
>> Speaking of rail trails (I was in my last message), I believe that the
>> "Great Allegheny Passage" rail trail is either complete or very close to
>> it. This would mean that you could ride for over 300 miles from
>> Pittsburgh to Washington DC and never have to share the road with an
>> automobile. I rode portions of it a few years ago and it was just a
>> delight. Some spots weren't so pretty but most of it was and all of it
>> was car free.
>> I wonder what the longest "car free" rides are in the US. Does anyone
>> know of anything longer?
>> Jeff
> The GAP is complete (to my knowledge) except for the first 9-mile stretch
> from Pittsburgh to McKeesport. There are some issues with private
> property owners that need to be resolved before the last few miles are
> continuous. However, as far as I know, the intention is to have the trail
> complete in 2008. More info is available at the ATA website
> (http://www.atatrail.org/).
> Best,
> Dan
I think there are quite a lot of potential routes like this in the
U.K., but most are yet to be utilised, expense to metal them is
obviously a consideration.
--
Buck
Give a little person a little power and create a big problem.
http://www.catrike.co.uk
|
|
