Dear AdventuRiders,
If you noticed the bright sunshine, breeze and chill this afternoon, you have a good idea what tomorrow's weather will be like. Bring some warm clothes, gloves, etc, and enjoy the spectacular Fall colors in Central Massachusetts.
To take advantage of the sunny weather, and to try something new, I thought we would meet in Sterling, MA. Google claims its 35 minutes from Groton and 25 minutes from Harvard. Here is a map.
My son, Keaton, and I made this video last summer that covers much of the area we will be riding.
The morning Recreation Ride will explore the Mass Central Rail Trail from Sterling to Holden. We will also stop at the Old Stone Church on the Wachusett Reservoir. Its an out and back sort of trip, so we will be spending quite a bit of time off road on a beautiful crushed rock surface. The route is 17 miles with about 750 feet vertical and 8 miles off road. Much of the elevation gain is on the 2% grade of the rail trail, so its not as hard as it sounds. I am planning to bring my road bike anyway. Here is a map.
Lunch will be at Bambi's Corner Cafe in Sterling Center.
"A little slice of the American pie, the Corner Café, in Sterling Center, offers basic diner fare at very low prices. Informal and chatty servers make for a nice experience, as do reliably prepared comfort foods."
NOTE: Last time we sort of overwhelmed Bambi, so we may go to Village Pizza and More instead.
On Friday, October 22nd, - We will meet at the Rail Trail parking in Sterling Center. Here is a map.
* At 9:30 AM, the Recreation Ride will leave for Holden. Here is a map.
* At 11:30 AM, we will have lunch at Bambi's Corner Cafe or Village Pizza.
* At 12:15 PM, the Fitness Ride will leave for the Wachusett Dam. Here is a map.
* At 2:15 PM, we will be back.
Hope to see you there,
Bill and Carole