Recently, I had some free time. I took advantage by….. You guessed it, gravel grinding! Usually, I plan my rides at least a day in advance. When opportunity arises, I normally just pull out of the garage on my road bike and hammer around the community. However, this time was different. I had an appointment later in the day in the Stroudsburg area. So, I loaded my gravel bike in the car and headed out to the McDade Trail.
It was a bit cold, but at 38 degrees, about right for November. I decided to incorporate some hills, so starting in Bushkill and pedaling out to the end of the trail seemed to make sense. I parked at the Roost (a deli, situated across Rt. 209 from the trail), used the facilities, grabbed a water and shoved off.
I wrapped around the old gas station and dropped into the trail in just enough time to start climbing right out of the gate. At this point, the gravel is thick, making it loose and hard to pick up any traction. It took all I had to keep my weight back and grind up the hill. The next few miles were a series of steep climbs, switchbacks and soaring descents, all on gravel, tucked neatly into the woods, between Rt. 209 and the Delaware River. What a great way to spent the afternoon!
I crossed over the huge bridge, hammered along the river and cruised into the parking lot at Hialeah. After a little confusion, I made my way back over to River Road for a short tour through the tiny but quaint hamlet of Shawnee on the Delaware. I turned around and zipped back to the trail.
The ride back was just as pleasant as the ride out. A slight breeze and no sun, combined with all of Autumn’s amazing colors provided a beautiful setting for a fall ride. I have always liked this section of the trail, as it has a whole different feel than the middle portion from Dingman’s to Bushkill. If you have the extra time and climbing legs, bring your camera, a sandwich and coffee and enjoy one of the jewels of the Delaware Water Gap Nation Recreation Area.
What’s Playing (What am I listening to while writing and what’s dancing around in my head while riding), today – America – You Can do Magic
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