When I've asked advice for doing this adventure, the first response that I usually got was "be flexible". We will be flexible. It turns out most of the east-west roads in Vermont are out. Julie and Dick have been busy researching and found a way. Adding about 80 miles, we'll go across on US 4 and hit the Atlantic at Portsmouth NH. We expect we'll have lots of traffic
Today we did get to our destination, Bennington VT. We didn't get to our designated campground however; all of the campgrounds in the area are closed due to flooding and loss of electricity. So tonight we're staying at a Best Western. Julie got out of cooking duties; there's a drive-in across the street.
The roads today were hilly but much less steep than yesterday. The weather was perfect again, but the traffic was quite heavy. Today we went through areas that were more populated - particularly Schenectady. During part of the ride they had diverted traffic from I90 to US 20, the road that we were on. A constant stream of cars and simis, but the shoulder was wide. We witnessed Irine's devastation during the day. There were sideroad washouts in several areas and the rivers were thick with mud. We know we'll see alot more tomorrow.
Roe
Love all the pictures and have enjoyed following along on your trip. Sounds like you have your work cut out for you dealing with "Irene". I am anxious to hear more stories when you get home. Can't tell you how impressed I am that you attempted a trip like this and that you are nearing the completion. For a tag along traveler who has not let the comfort of my home, it seems like this month has FLOWN by.
ReplyDeleteAlmost time to dip the tire in the Atlantic. Who wudda thunk Hurricane would have the major impact in Vermont. Doug and Mimi Lilly are fine by the way. We rode out the storm with grandkids in NJ where the flooding is catastrophic. We are high and dry. Good luck with the rest of your amazing journey. Safe travels! Dick and Judi B
ReplyDeleteSorry you have to add 80 miles to the ride, but I'm happy to hear that you will be able to make it work after Irene and the following floods. Be safe; I hope the worst traffic is already behind you. I cannot imagine trying to share the road on a bicycle with semis and east coast drivers that have been diverted from an interstate, so I wish you the best.
ReplyDeleteSounds like some of your biggest challenges will be at the end of the ride with 'Irene' changing the design of the roads. You'll never hear the song "Goodnight Irene" without thinking of the destruction she ensued. Like you mentioned, there will probably be more traffic because of all the detours. Be safe.
ReplyDeleteI know you're both excited about your last days and concerned that around the bend will be another additional re-route but I hope that is kept at a minimum. You have seen America like no one else and it will be a wonderful memory forever etched in your minds. Great job.....keep it up.....we are all so excited for the completion of the ride. You just may hear a shout of joy coming from the Austin area when you dip your tire in the Atlantic!!!
Be safe as you finish the last days of your amazing journey. I hope you don't have to add many extra miles to your ride. About when will you be dipping your tires in the Atlantic? I think it would be fun if we all could stop what we are doing and give you a big cheer from wherever we are at the time. The end is near and a bit sad at the same time. I know I will miss looking at the blog every morning when I get to work. I would think your lives have been so touched by this experience that it will be hard for you to be done as well. Have a safe ride. Debbie V.
ReplyDeleteAwesome job guys...safe travel home....The Meyer's
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