Christine and I put on our helmets once again to hit the path. This time, we headed down to Cottage Grove, where they have a great path. I believe this used to be a train track and was converted to a bike path (rails to trails)? I want to look at this more, because I think it’s much longer than I realized.
Christine, smiling in the foreground and a covered bridge in the background.
We’ve had so much rain! You can see how swollen and muddy this creek is. I don’t think we’ve had a late spring/early summer like this for over 10 years.
I think this is a second covered bridge…
Another covered bridge!
The path was so green and lush! Also, I love how someone was nice enough to mark all of the dips and bumps that can do a number on the tush if you’re not expecting it.
There’s a nice little potty spot on the trail for those who need it.
You can see the clouds… we were taking a chance with the weather. The forecast called for rain all day, but we really wanted to get a ride in.
Halfway into our ride (we both had time constraints), it started POURING. We quickly sought cover under some large trees and waited for it to subside, or at least slow down.
On our way back, we had to look at the reservoir. It is FULL and at the spilling over point. We wanted to get an even better look…
We went up a little gravel road and out our bikes down to walk the rest of the way.
Wow! The water made so much noise! Also, you can hear a high-pitched whine. I don’t know if that’s just the sound of the water shooting out of the jets, or if it’s the hydro-machinery? Either way, it was quite impressive.
LEAVES OF THREE, LET THEM BE! NO TOUCHY! Poison Oak, my friends.
Our trip back involved just a few sprinkles, but it was mostly clear. What a great ride! If we both had more time, we would’ve gone further. Still, it was very nice.
Distance: 17.25 miles; Elevation Gain: 262 feet
The Happy Viking 