Winter Walks Mailing List

Dear AdventuRiders,

A few people have had trouble signing up for the WinterWalks mailing list. If you are having trouble, just email me and I will send you an invitation to join (I can't add people directly anymore).

Check out the picture from Mount Wachusett this afternoon. Opening tomorrow maybe?

Bill

Winter Walks

Dear AdventuRiders,

If you DID NOT receive an email from the WinterWalks email group, then you are not a member yet.

You can subscribe by going to AdventuRides.com and signing up in the box in the upper righthand corner.

While it is called "Winter Walks" it is intended to be used to announce events such as Downhill Ski, XCountry Ski, Snow Shoe, and even Walks!

Any group member can post events of interest to winterwalks@googlegroups.com.

You can unsubscribe by sending email to winterwalks+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.

Mount Wachusett opens tomorrow (probably)!!!

Bill

GO - East Pepperell Center

Another Bike Ride on Monday?

Dear AdventuRiders,

The Fall biking season continues on, although it looks like Monday could be the end :-( I attached a picture from last Friday's ride.

The forecast calls for Mostly Cloudy :-( but relatively warm :-) It should be mid 40s when we leave and mid 50s when we get back with little wind.

So I thought we could start in East Pepperell Center and do a tour of Mine Falls Park in Nashua and then have lunch at Dolce Italian Grill in Pepperell.

The route will take us across the new covered bridge and on to the Nissitissit River and UP to views from Blood Road on the border with Hollis before we descend to follow the Nashua River to Nashua and back. I'm not planning to actually go into downtown Nashua, but just stay in Mine Falls Park for almost 5 miles of easy, car-free off road. After a flat but boring trip on Route 111, we will take the newly reopened Nashua River Rail Trail back to East Pepperell.

On Monday, December 5th - East Pepperell Center

• The "Extra Innings Ride" will leave East Pepperell Center at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - East Pepperell Center.
• Route Map - East Pepperell - Mine Falls Park.
• Distance - 23 miles.
• Elevation Gain - 350 feet (about as easy as you can get in NH).
• Unpaved - 7 miles (very smooth).
• Equipment - I think I will bring my hybrid bike, just for the heck of it.

AR Index - Roughly 27 flat, paved miles.

Lunch will be at Dolce Wood Fired Italian Grill in Pepperell.

Hope to see you there,

Bill (and maybe Carole)

GO - Lunenburg Center

Happy Birthday Ellen!

Reminder - Lunenburg Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

We've never done a December ride before, but if you liked today, tomorrow is supposed to be the same except slightly "warmer". It should be SUNNY and low 40s with little wind when we leave and upper 40s when we get back. I think the rule of thumb would be about 4 layers.

We will start off towards Lake Whalom on Sunny Hill Road and enjoys the views from the top. Then its off to Lake Shirley and Flat Hill (it isn't) to enjoy some more views. From there we will ride around Hickory Hills Lake on our way back to Lunenburg Road. You may notice the word "hill" used very often in the description, but its not as bad as it sounds and the views should be especially nice tomorrow.

We can have lunch and Birthday Party for Ellen afterwards at Bangkok Hill - Original Thai Cuisine.

On Friday, December 2nd - Lunenburg

• The Birthday Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We should be back by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Lunenburg Center.
• Route Map - Lunenburg to Flat Hill & Alpacas.
• Distance = 23 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 600 feet (2 significant hills).
• Unpaved = none.
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work.

AR Index = Roughly 29 flat, paved miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill

Friday 12/02 - Bike Ride and Birthday Party

Dear Adventuriders,

It looks like good weather on Friday and it is Ellen's Birthday! So I am planning a 23 mile-ish ride around Lunenburg with lunch at Bangkok Hill Thai Restaurant (yummy).

Stay tuned for more details.

Bill

GO - East Pepperell Center

It's much cooler than yesterday. Dress warmly.

The Last Rides of the Season - East Pepperell Center

Dear AdventuRiders,

Well, the Fall 2011 season has flown by so quickly. We've been to Sterling and Somerville, Pepperell and Portsmouth, Groton and Greenville, the list goes on and on. 

Anyway, Monday, November 21st is the last official day of our season. If we get some good riding weather after Thanksgiving, we may do some special rides.

The morning ride will travel to the rapids on the Nashua River in Hollis, NH. The Nashua River Rail Trail is still closed, so we will ride through Dunstable and a piece of Nashua to get there. The backroads through Dunstable and Pepperell are very peaceful and scenic and I don't think we will miss the NRRT. The morning ride is the easier of the two rides with about 14 miles and 200 feet elevation gain.

The afternoon ride will feature a bunch of newly resurfaced roads on our way to Beaver Brook Association in Hollis and then on to quaint Hollis Center. From there it is almost all fresh asphalt back to Pepperell Center. There are some very nice views on this ride, but as you can imagine, that means there are some hills. The route is almost 16 miles and 400 feet elevation gain. 

On Monday, November 21st - Pepperell - Nashua River Rapids - No NRRT

• The Morning Recreation Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 11:30 AM.
• Starting Point Map - East Pepperell Center.
• Route Map - Pepperell - Nashua River Rapids - No NRRT.
• Distance - 14 miles.
• Elevation Gain - 200 feet (easy).
• Rough Surface - None.
• Equipment - I am planning to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly 15 flat, smooth miles.

We will have lunch at the NEW Pepperell Spa Cafe. The food is about the same, but the bathroom is truly a thing of beauty!

• The Afternoon Recreation Ride will leave at 12:30 PM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - East Pepperell Center.
• Route Map - Pepperell - Hollis - No NRRT
• Distance - 16 miles.
• Elevation Gain - 400 feet (more difficult)
• Rough Surface - 1.5 miles freshly graded dirt / gravel road - very smooth.
• Equipment - I am planning to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly 20 flat, smooth miles.

The End (maybe).

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Bolton - Bower's Spring

It's already above freezing! Dress warmly.

Reminder - Bower's Spring on Friday

Dear AdventuRiders,

Get out your woolies, its gonna be cold tomorrow. The forecast calls for BRIGHT BLUE SUNNY skies tomorrow, but it will only be in the upper 30s when we start and mid 40s when we get back. The wind will be busy too, with windchill temps from the low to mid 30s. Bundle up!

There was a PortaPotty at the parking lot when I checked yesterday. Bower's Spring is about 3 miles South of Harvard Center on Bolton Road. Just after you cross into Bolton, Flanagan Road will be on your right.

We will ride along the ridge taking in some wonderful mountain views on our way to Berlin. More views await us on the way back. There will be enough hills to keep us warm along the way.

On Friday, November 18th - Bower's Spring

• The Fitness Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Bower's Spring (On the Harvard - Bolton line).
• Route Map - Harvard Hills from Bower's Spring.
• Distance = 23 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 600 feet (more difficult).
• Rough Surface = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 29 flat, smooth miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

STOP - The Jefferson Ride is Postponed.

Reminder - Jefferson on Wednesday 11/16

Dear AdventuRiders,

Well, the weather is being uncooperative again. The forecast calls for a 60% chance of rain pretty much all day long tomorrow. I'll make the GO / STOP decision before 8:00 AM.

Hope to see you there,

Bill

For those of you who have ridden the Mass Central Rail Trail around Sterling and West Boyleston, you know how beautiful it is. Now imagine continuing almost to Barre on the same trail. Its so nice in fact, that we will return on the trail as far as Rutland.

We will have lunch at the NEW Heavy Evie's Happy Kitchen in Rutland. Lunch is at mile 20 and if people prefer to get back earlier, I can provide some simple directions and a map. You will still see Altavista Farm and the bison and zoom mostly downhill back to Jefferson.

On Wednesday, November 16th - Jefferson - MCRT

• The Exploration Ride will leave at 10:00 AM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM, or 1:30 PM if you skip lunch.
• Starting Point Map - Jefferson Church.
• Route Map - Jefferson - MCRT - Heavy Evies.
• Distance = 24 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 950 feet (challenging).
• Unpaved = 14 miles (smooth crushed rock).
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I am planning to bring my hybrid bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 33 flat, paved miles. 

Hope to see you there,

Bill

GO - Groton Center

This Week - Groton - Jefferson - Bolton

Dear AdventuRiders,

We are down to the last 4 ride days of AdventuRides for the Fall 2011 season :-(  We have a full schedule this week and then next Monday 11/21 is the official end. If we have good biking weather after that AND Wachusett Mountain isn't open yet, you never know ...

Anyhow, the weather for Monday isn't looking the best, but I guess Mostly Cloudy and mid to upper 50s isn't that bad for the middle of November. So I scheduled a couple of Recreation Rides starting in Groton Center that I call the Broken Branch Tour due to the tree damage from Snow-tober. The Nashua River Rail trail is officially closed so we will be using the roads instead.

The Morning Recreation Ride will travel to Baddacook Pond on the way to Larter Field in Dunstable and the PortaPotty. On the way back we will explore the area around Kirk Farm and avoid the NRRT on back roads to Groton Center. 

Lunch will be at Filho's Cucina in Groton Center.

The Afternoon Recreation Ride will zoom down the hill to West Groton, explore the Squannacook River on our way to the Most Historic Small Town in America. From there we will ride past Surrenden Farm Conservation Area and a corner of Groton School while continuing to avoid the NRRT on the way back to Groton Center.

*** On Monday, November 14th - Groton Center

• The Morning Recreation Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 11:30 AM.
• Starting Point Map - Groton Center.
• Route Map - Groton - Dunstable - BBT.
• Distance = 15 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 250 feet (easy).
• Unpaved = 1/2 mile.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 17 flat, paved miles.

Lunch will be at 11:30 AM at Filho's Cucina in Groton Center

• The Afternoon Recreation Ride will leave at 12:30 PM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM.
• Starting point Map - Groton Center.
• Route Map - Groton - Shirley Center - BBT.
• Distance = 15 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 400 feet (moderate).
• Unpaved = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 19 flat, paved miles.

*** On Wednesday, November 16th - Jefferson - MCRT

Since I only got one taker for this ride last Tuesday (Thanks Wick!), I will do it again this Wednesday. We had a wonderful time, and the Mass Central Rail Trail is as scenic and remote feeling as ever. Its a bit of a hike to get to the starting point (45 minutes from Groton Center), and there are some significant hills, but I LOVE the wildness yet smoothness of the trail and Heavy Evie's Happy Kitchen for lunch makes it all worthwhile.

*** On Friday, November 18th - Bolton - Bower Springs

We will start at Bower Springs in Bolton which is UP on the ridge, so we don't have to climb the hill from Harvard. We will have fabulous views from several hill tops and I have tried to minimize the elevation gain / mileage so its not a killer ride.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

Veteran's Day - No Ride Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

The weather forecast just isn't nice enough to do a special ride tomorrow. Cloudy, windy and cold would be too much of a shock to my system after the first 3 days this week!

I attached a picture from yesterday's ride to Portsmouth. Other than the inevitable sea breeze on the way back, it was a perfect day.

Bill

GO - Hampton North Beach

Reminder - NH Seacoast Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

It looks like a FANTASTIC day for bicycling tomorrow. Sunny, mid 50s to low 60s, and very little wind!

We have several people on tight schedules tomorrow, so please be ready to LEAVE Hampton North Beach at 10:00 AM. 

To keep to our schedule we need to ride at a deliberate pace, somewhere in the 12 - 14 MPH range. I promise not to zoom off like I did on the Seacoast Century this year. Most of the morning ride is on Route 1A which isn't very "chat friendly" anyway, so by riding faster we can have more leisurely breaks and not feel rushed.

After lunch we have 12 miles back to the starting point and some less busy backroads.

On Wednesday, November 9th - Portsmouth

• We can meet at Shaw's in Groton to carpool at 8:45 AM. Here is a map.
• The Exploration Ride will leave Hampton North Beach at 10:00 AM. Here is a map.
• We will return to Hampton North Beach by 2:30 PM.
• Starting Point - Hampton North Beach (not to be confused with North Hampton Beach!).
• Route Map - Hampton North Beach to Portsmouth.
• Distance = 31 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 310 feet (basically flat).
• Unpaved = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my real road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 31 flat, smooth miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Jefferson - MCRT

Reminder - Jefferson on Tuesday 11/8

Dear AdventuRiders,

I have at least one taker for the Mass Central Rail Trail ride tomorrow, so its ON. The weather today was pretty much perfect for bicycling and tomorrow looks like a replay.

Hope to see you there,

Bill

For those of you who have ridden the Mass Central Rail Trail around Sterling and West Boyleston, you know how beautiful it is. Now imagine continuing almost to Barre on the same trail. Its so nice in fact, that we will return on the trail as far as Rutland.

We will have lunch at the NEW Heavy Evie's Diner in Rutland. Lunch is at mile 20 and if people prefer to get back earlier, I can provide some simple directions and a map. You will still see Altavista Farm and the bison and zoom mostly downhill back to Jefferson.

On Tuesday, November 8th - Jefferson - MCRT

• The REAL Exploration Ride will leave at 10:00 AM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM, or 1:30 PM if you skip lunch.
• Starting Point Map - Jefferson Church.
• Route Map - Jefferson - MCRT - Heavy Evies.
• Distance = 24 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 950 feet (challenging).
• Unpaved = 14 miles (smooth crushed rock).
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work, but there could be patches of SNOW. I am planning to bring my hybrid bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 33 flat, paved miles. 

Hope to see you there,

Bill and (probably not Carole)

GO - Carlisle Center

Save Another Date - This Tuesday 11/8

Dear AdventuRiders,

Sorry to bombard you with email, but the next 3 days are looking FANTASTIC! How 'bout a REAL Exploration ADVENTURide on Tuesday (as well as the "regular" Exploration Ride on Wednesday)?

I was out exploring this afternoon around Rutland and the Mass Central Rail Trail expecting an impassible mess, but the trail is mostly clear of snow and there are only a few branches down. It starts to get worse by the time you get to Oakham, but that is only 1 1/2 miles short of my intended turn around point anyway.

RSVP if you are interested.

For those of you who have ridden the Mass Central Rail Trail around Sterling and West Boyleston, you know how beautiful it is. Now imagine continuing almost to Barre on the same trail. Its so nice in fact, that we will return on the trail as far as Rutland.

We will have lunch at the NEW Heavy Evie's Diner in Rutland. Lunch is at mile 20 and if people prefer to get back earlier, I can provide some simple directions and a map. You will still see Altavista Farm and the bison and zoom mostly downhill back to Jefferson.

On Tuesday, November 8th - Jefferson - MCRT

• The REAL Exploration Ride will leave at 10:00 AM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM, or 1:30 PM if you skip lunch.
• Starting Point Map - Jefferson Church.
• Route Map - Jefferson - MCRT - Heavy Evies.
• Distance = 24 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 950 feet (challenging).
• Unpaved = 14 miles (smooth crushed rock).
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work, but there could be patches of SNOW. I am planning to bring my hybrid bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 33 flat, paved miles. 

Hope to see you there,

Bill and (probably not Carole)

This Week - Carlisle - Portsmouth - Veteran's Day

Dear AdventuRiders,

The good news is that the weather forecast looks FANTASTIC for Monday! Sunny skies, 40s to start the day and near 60 in the afternoon with little wind. The bad news is that the PortaPotties are starting to disappear for the season. 

We will meet in a little park just north of the Carlisle Center rotary (the PortaPotty at Fern's is gone). Here is a map. Please DO NOT park at Fern's. If the parking lot is full, there is another parking lot at Carlisle Town Hall just around the corner. 

The morning ride will feature a visit to Heart Pond (also missing their PortaPotty) on our way to Great Brook Farm State Park (and their first class porcelain). After our rest stop, we will explore the back roads of Carlisle on our way back to the Center.

The afternoon ride will zoom down to the Olde North Bridge in Concord. There is also first class porcelain at the Visitor's Center for our afternoon rest stop. Then we will ride the back roads of Concord, Acton, and Carlisle on the way back.

On Monday, November 7th - Carlisle Center

• The Morning Recreation Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 11:30 AM.
• Starting Point - Carlisle Center.
• Route Map - Carlisle - Heart Pond - GBFSP.
• Distance = 14 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 260 feet.
• Unpaved = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 16 flat, smooth miles.

Lunch will be at Fern's Country Store at 11:30 AM. Here is their menu. We will have a picnic on their patio.

• The Afternoon Recreation Ride will leave at 12:30 PM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM.
• Starting Point - Carlisle Center.
• Route Map - Carlisle - Old North Bridge.
• Distance = 15 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 300 feet (more difficult).
• Unpaved = 1/4 mile.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 18 flat, smooth miles.

On Wednesday, November 9th - NH Seacoast to Portsmouth

Check out this post for more information.

On Friday, November 11th - Veteran's Day

No official ride. If the weather is nice (it doesn't look that way at this point), I will probably come up with a ride.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

Save the Date - Portsmouth next Wednesday!

Dear AdventuRiders,

We had a very nice ride to Somerville today, and yes, some of us did have lunch outside in the beautiful sunshine.

Anyhow, if you believe the weatherman, the first part of next week will feature the return of Indian Summer. So, we are planning to do the NH Seacoast Ride to Portsmouth on Wednesday. I wanted to get the word out early so people can plan accordingly. I even attached a picture from New Castle to entice you.

On Monday we will do our usual Recreation Rides in the morning and afternoon with lunch at Fern's Country Store in Carlisle. I haven't finished planning the rides yet, but I will send out details this weekend.

On Wednesday, November 9th - Portsmouth

• We can meet at Shaw's in Groton to carpool at 8:45 AM. Here is a map.
• The Exploration Ride will leave Hampton North Beach at 10:00 AM. Here is a map.
• We will return to Hampton North Beach by 3:00 PM.
• Starting Point - Hampton North Beach (not to be confused with North Hampton Beach!).
• Route Map - Hampton North Beach to Portsmouth.
• Distance = 31 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 310 feet (basically flat).
• Unpaved = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 31 flat, smooth miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Minuteman Bikeway, Bedford

Bring your warm stuff, it will be windy coming back.

Change of Plans - Minuteman Bikeway on Friday

Dear AdventuRiders,

I'm sorry to keep changing the plans, but the weather just hasn't been cooperating with me! I scouted the "Harvard Hills" route this afternoon, and between the snow, tree limbs, and downed power lines, it just doesn't seem like a good idea.

The Minuteman Bikeway from Bedford to Somerville is in pretty good shape. We can use a modified Friday sort of schedule, where people who want to stop for lunch at Dave's Fresh Pasta in Davis Square can enjoy a sidewalk picnic (if its warm enough), and people who need to get back early can turn around at Alewife.

The weather for tomorrow looks Sunny, but Windier and Chillier than today. It should be low 40s and a tail wind going in. In the afternoon it will be upper 40s and a head wind going back.

Note the 10:00 AM starting time. BTW, the bathrooms at the starting point parking lot were open today, but there are no guarantees. The route is about 22 miles, all paved, and essentially flat. Its a good way to rack up some miles without killing ourselves, and we get delicious sandwiches from Dave's Fresh Pasta.

On Friday, November 4th, we will meet in Bedford at the Minuteman Bikeway Parking.

• At 10:00 AM - The Fitness Ride will leave from the Minuteman Rail Trail Parking in Bedford. Here is a map.
• At 11:30 AM - LUNCH at Dave's Fresh Pasta in Somerville.
• At 12:30 PM - We will head back to Bedford.
• At 2:30 PM - We should be back to the Minuteman Rail Trail Parking.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

Reminder - NH Seacoast to Portsmouth on Wednesday

Dear AdventuRiders,

If you're stuck in a cold, dark house, come ride with us to Portsmouth along the beautiful NH Seacoast. The SUNSHINE will do you good! I attached a picture from the Hampton Beach webcam today. As you can see, it is still Fall there.

The forecast for Portsmouth calls for SUNNY, almost no wind, and 40 degrees to begin and 50 when we get back. Not bad for November!

On Wednesday, November 2nd - Portsmouth

Although its an hour drive each way, this is a good route to accumulate miles without hills and with marvelous scenery. We won't have to pay for parking or entrance fees, and there's NO SNOW at the coast.

RSVP if you are planning to come with us. We can meet at Shaw's in Groton to carpool, or meet at Hampton North Beach.

We can meet at the Shaw's parking lot at 4 corners in Groton to carpool. Here is a meeting place map.

We will meet at the Hampton North Beach Parking. Here is a starting point map.

• The Exploration Ride will ride along the beautiful NH seacoast to New Castle and then to Portsmouth. Along the way we will stop at Rye Harbor State Park, O'Diorne State Park, Fort Constitution, ... Since we have experience with afternoon headwinds on the coast, I have mapped out an inland route on the way back if necessary.

• The route is about 31 miles and mostly flat. Here is a route map. Its all on road, so I plan to bring my road bike. I promise not to ride as fast as I did on the Seacoast Century.

AR Index is roughly equal to 31 flat, smooth miles.

We have many choices for lunch in Portsmouth. Here are a few suggestions:

• Lunch on the deck overlooking Portsmouth Harbor at River House Restaurant.
• Pub lunch with fresh microbrew beer at the Portsmouth Brewery.
• Lighter fare at Popovers on the sidewalk in bustling Market Square.

Here is the schedule:

• At 9:00 AM - Meet at Shaw's to carpool.
• At 10:00 AM - Meet at Hampton North Beach parking lot.
• At 12:30 PM ish - We will have lunch.
• At 3:00 PM - We will be back to Hampton North Beach.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and maybe Carole

Rest of the Week - Portsmouth - Harvard

Dear AdventuRiders,

There is too much snow / ice / sand, tree limbs, downed power lines, etc. to do any biking around here. I checked out the Minuteman Bikeway, but it is snow / ice / leaf / branch covered from Bedford to Lexington at least. So, let's do a coast ride from Hampton North Beach to Portsmouth. Although I didn't personally check it out, the attached snow cover map indicates that it is clear.

The forecast for Portsmouth calls for SUNNY, little wind, and 40 degrees to begin and 46 when we get back. Not bad for November!

On Wednesday, November 2nd - Portsmouth

Although its an hour drive each way, this is a good route to accumulate miles without hills and with marvelous scenery. We won't have to pay for parking or entrance fees, and there's NO SNOW at the coast.

RSVP if you are planning to come with us. We can meet at Shaw's in Groton to carpool, or meet at Hampton North Beach.

We can meet at the Shaw's parking lot at 4 corners in Groton to carpool. Here is a meeting place map.

We will meet at the Hampton North Beach Parking. Here is a starting point map.

• The Exploration Ride will ride along the beautiful NH seacoast to New Castle and then to Portsmouth. Along the way we will stop at Rye Harbor State Park, O'Diorne State Park, Fort Constitution, ... Since we have experience with afternoon headwinds on the coast, I have mapped out an inland route on the way back if necessary.

• The route is about 31 miles and mostly flat. Here is a route map. Its all on road, so I plan to bring my road bike. I promise not to ride as fast as I did on the Seacoast Century.

AR Index is roughly equal to 31 flat, smooth miles.

We have many choices for lunch in Portsmouth. Here are a few suggestions:

• Lunch on the deck overlooking Portsmouth Harbor at River House Restaurant.
• Pub lunch with fresh microbrew beer at the Portsmouth Brewery.
• Lighter fare at Popovers on the sidewalk in bustling Market Square.

Here is the schedule:

• At 9:00 AM - Meet at Shaw's to carpool.
• At 10:00 AM - Meet at Hampton North Beach parking lot.
• At 12:30 PM ish - We will have lunch.
• At 3:00 PM - We will be back to Hampton North Beach.

On Friday, November 4th - Hills of Harvard

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

Monday Rides Are Cancelled :-(

For those of you who have power and Internet ...

We'll see what Wednesday brings ...

Bill

Only 4 Weeks Until Opening Day at Wachusett Mountain

Dear AdventuRiders,

With everyone talking about SNOW, I thought it would be a good idea to forward this.

You can order your 2011/2012 Wachusett Mountain Season Pass through the AdventuRides GPS* Group and save $110. I usually get a Bronze Pass that works on all non-holiday weekdays and all nights for only $239. Regular lift ticket are $53, so ski just 5 times and you are ahead, and no waiting in ticket lines either. Do I sound like a Wachusett salesman or what?

It really is a great deal and skiing weekday mornings at Wachusett will spoil you forever with freshly groomed snow, no lift lines, and friendly, civilized fellow skiers.

Just go to this website and use the name ADVENTURIDES for the group name. 

Hope to see you on the slopes,

Bill and Carole

* Greatest Possible Savings

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Wachusett Mountain <wachusettmt@wachusett.com>
Date: Thu, Oct 27, 2011 at 3:14 PM
Subject: Only 4 Weeks Until Opening Day
To: bill.brandt@gmail.com

To view this email as a web page, go here.

Dear WILLIAM, GPS Club Season Pass A little snow in the forecast is a good reminder that it's time to buy your Season Pass.  Start a group or join a group - all you need is 4 or more people!  Purchase your pass before Nov. 16th and save $100! Winter Fire Join us November 5th as we get fired up for winter!   Be the first to watch the premiere of TGR's newest ski and ride film "One for the Road".  Your entire family will enjoy an evening full of live music by Five Hole, Fire Dance Performances, sizzling food specials and a whole lot more! Wine, Cheese, Chicks & Skis An evening for women only, November 4th.  Indulge on food, wine & conversation in front of the roaring fire!  Learn about the new tips and trends for the upcoming season.  Enjoy special Women's only discounts on equipment, tune-ups and more.  MORE INFO. Instructor Training Course Get paid to ski and ride!  One of the best instructor training courses is right here at Wachusett and you can be a part of it!  Learn how to teach proper techniques for skiing and riding.  Orientation day is November 13th. Register Online           Wachusett Mountain Ski Area operates in cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Please be sure to add wachusettmt@wachusett.com to your address book to ensure further emails. If you'd like to receive e-mails at another address or change your subscriptions, update your preferences here. To be removed from this list unsubscribe here.

This email was sent to: bill.brandt@gmail.com This email was sent by: Wachusett Mountain 499 Mountain Road Princeton, MA 01541 We respect your right to privacy - view our policy
Manage Subscriptions | Update Profile | One-Click Unsubscribe

STOP - The Fitness Ride is Postponed

I hate to miss a sunny day, but ice, snow, sanded roads and bicycles don't mix well.

Change of Plans - 10:30 AM - Bower's Spring on Friday

Dear AdventuRiders,

I'm a bit concerned by the possibility of snow and ice on the ground tomorrow morning, ... not to mention the cold.

So, I think we should start the ride at 10:30 AM and move the starting point UP the hill to Bower's Spring to shorten up the ride a bit while preserving the scenic possibilities. There was a PortaPotty at the parking lot when I checked yesterday. Bower's Spring is about 3 miles South of Harvard Center on Bolton Road. Just after you cross into Bolton, Flanagan Road will be on your right.

On Friday, October 28th - Bower's Spring

• The Fitness Ride will leave at 10:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Bower's Spring (On the Harvard - Bolton line).
• Route Map - Harvard Hills from Bower's Spring.
• Distance = 14 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 400 feet (moderate).
• Rough Surface = none.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 18 flat, smooth miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

Reminder - Harvard - Depot Road on Friday

Dear AdventuRiders,

The good news is that its supposed to be SUNNY on Friday! The bad news is that it may only be in the low 30s when we start. The worse news it that it could snow Thursday night. Stay tuned.

More good news is that we won't be climbing Prospect Hill on this ride. Of course we will miss Fruitlands Museum and the goats on Madigan Lane as well as the Category 5 hill. However, we will stop at Bare Hill Pond to admire the scenery before we head UP to the Wataquadock Hills and enjoy the distance mountain views.

On the way back we will pass many scenic farms while staying up on the ridge to minimize the hills. We will stop at Bower Springs for a PortaPotty break, and we can go down to the pond if we have time. Then its a 4 mile roller coaster ride back to Harvard Center on Bolton Road.

Lunch will be at Sorrento's

On Friday, October 28th - Harvard - Depot Road

• The Friday Fitness Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Harvard - Depot Road Soccer Fields (PortaPotty equipped).
• Route Map - Harvard Hills.
• Distance = 21 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 600 feet (not that bad, especially for Harvard).
• Rough Surface = 1 mile.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 27 flat, smooth miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

STOP - Wednesday's Ride is Postponed

Reminder - Jefferson - MCRT Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

After a surprisingly nice day on Monday, tomorrow's weather is looking particularly nasty. The forecast for Rutland calls for rain and snow (???) in the morning and just rain in the afternoon. Unless something changes dramatically, I would say the ride will be postponed. I'll make the call tomorrow morning.

For those of you who have ridden the Mass Central Rail Trail around Sterling and West Boyleston, you know how beautiful it is. Now imagine continuing almost to Barre on the same trail. Its so nice in fact, that we will return on the trail as far as Rutland.

We will have lunch at the NEW Heavy Evie's Diner in Rutland. Lunch is at mile 22 and if people prefer to get back earlier, I can provide some simple directions and a map. You will still see Altavista Farm and the bison and zoom mostly downhill back to Jefferson.

On Wednesday, October, 26th - Jefferson - MCRT

• The Exploration Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM, or 1:30 PM if you skip lunch.
• Starting Point Map - Jefferson Church.
• Route Map - Jefferson - MCRT - Heavy Evies.
• Distance = 27 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 950 feet (challenging).
• Unpaved = 15 miles (smooth crushed rock).
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I am planning to bring my hybrid bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 36 flat, paved miles. 

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Hudson, Horseshoe Pub

Bring something warm.

This Week - Hudson - Jefferson - Harvard

Dear AdventuRiders,

Well, the Monday forecast is looking better. Currently. they are saying Mostly to Partly Cloudy, low 50s to low 60s, and light winds.

I'm trying a new idea, the Monday Recreation Rides will be cut down versions of previous Fitness / Exploration Rides, so everyone can enjoy some new territory. 

It doesn't look like an outdoor dining day, but we will start and have lunch at the Horseshoe Pub in Hudson. According to Google, it is exactly 30 minutes from Groton Center to Hudson.

The morning Recreation Ride will explore the Assebet River Rail Trail to the Assebet River National Wildlife Refuge. From there we will visit Lake Boone, ride past Honey Pot Hill Orchards and BOO them since they are blocking the ARRT, then see how the other half lives on the Stow golf courses.

Lunch will be at The Horseshoe Pub in Hudson with 80 beers on tap.

The afternoon ride will take us over the Assebet River on a footbridge on our way to cute alpacas and then to the church restoration in Berlin Center. From there we will avoid Salomon Pond Mall as much as possible on our way to the paved (and downhill) portion of the ARRT. 

On Monday, October 24th - Hudson - Horseshoe Pub

• The Morning Recreation Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 11:30 AM.
• Starting Point Map - Hudson - Horseshoe Pub.
• Route Map - Hudson - ARNWR
• Distance = 15 1/2 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 200 feet (easy) There is only one significant hill.
• Unpaved = 2 1/2 miles. Mostly smooth.
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 17 flat, paved miles.

Lunch is at 11:30 AM at The Horseshoe Pub next to our starting point.

• The Afternoon Recreation Ride will leave at 12:30 PM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Hudson - Horseshoe Pub.
• Route Map - Hudson - Berlin
• Distance = 17 miles
• Elevation Gain = 400 feet (more difficult)
• Unpaved = 500 feet
• Equipment - I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 21 flat paved miles.

On Wednesday, October 26th - Jefferson - MCRT

On Friday, October 28th - Harvard Hills

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Lancaster, Thayer Field

Sunny but chilly.

Reminder - Lancaster, Thayer Field - Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

The only thing good about rainouts it that I can cut and paste the ride information from last week :-)

The weather for tomorrow may not be a top 10, but a top 20 day for sure. Its supposed to be Sunny, breezy, and mid 50s.

We will travel to Atlantic Union College, George Hill, Maharishi Ayurveta Health Center, Sterling National Country Club, Davis Farmland, "Mary Had A Little Lamb", Mass Central Rail Trail, Wachusett Reservoir, Clinton Center, Old Lancaster Girl's Industrial School, and Lancaster Center (established 1653, two years before Groton).

Lunch - TBD. Choices include Trolley Stop Pizza (nothing special), Sandee's Restaurant (good reviews), Berlin Orchards, ...

On Friday, October 21st - Lancaster

• The Fitness Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Lancaster - Thayer Field.
• Route Map - Lancaster - MCRT - Wachusett Dam.
• Distance = 25 Miles.
• Elevation Gain = 700 feet (more difficult) includes 1 Cat 5 (easiest category) hill.
• Unpaved = 3 Miles, but very smooth.
• Equipment - Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equivalent to 32 flat, paved miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

STOP - it's gonna rain soon :-(

Change of Plans - Groton Center Tomorrow

Dear AdventuRiders,

After a nearly perfect day on Monday, tomorrow's weather is looking particularly nasty. The forecast for Rutland calls for mid 50s, windy and rain by noon.

Its too far to drive out there (45 minutes from Groton) to ride in crummy conditions. I DO want to ride though, if the rain holds off a bit. So, how about an informal ride from Groton Center?

On Wednesday October, 19 - Groton Center

• We will leave Groton Center at 9:30 AM.
• We will be back probably before 11:30 AM or before we get too wet / cold / hungry.
• Starting Point Map = Groton Center.
• Route Map = ???
• Distance = Until it starts raining???
• Elevation Gain = ???
• Equipment = Ride what ya' brung.

AR Index = Bring your flippers :-)

Hope to see you there,

Bill (and maybe Carole)

GO - West Acton - Elm Street Playground

Sunny and breezy.

This Week - West Acton - Jefferson - Lancaster

Dear AdventuRiders,

Well, the forecast for Monday is looking better all the time. Right now it looks like Sunny and Breezy with temps from the mid 50s in the morning to the mid 60s in the afternoon.

The morning ride will feature llamas, Long Pond, Nagog Hill Orchards, and Nagog Pond. It will be the easier of the Monday rides.

The afternoon ride will travel to the Assebet River and then explore 5 miles of gated roads in the Assebet River National Wildlife Refuge. On the way back we will ride a bit of the (unpaved) Assebet River Rail Trail and visit Maynard. We will need to keep moving to get back on time.

On Monday, October 17th - West Acton

• The morning Recreation Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 11:30 AM.
• Starting Point Map = Elm Street Playground, West Acton
• Route Map = West Acton - Littleton.
• Distance = 13.5 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 250 feet (easy, with a lot of rolling hills)
• Unpaved = 500 feet.
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 15 flat, paved miles.

Lunch will be at 11:30 AM from Idylwilde Farms just around the corner from the starting point.

On Monday, October 17th - West Acton.

• The afternoon Recreation Ride will ride will leave at 12:30 PM.
• We will return by 2:30 PM, although we will need to keep moving.
• Starting Point Map = Elm Street Playground, West Acton.
• Route Map = West Acton - ARNWR.
• Distance = 18 miles.
• Elevation Gain = 250 feet (easy)
• Unpaved = 3 miles (mostly smooth - some sand).
• Equipment = Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I plan to bring my road bike.

AR Index = Roughly equal to 20 flat, paved miles.

On Wednesday, October 19th - Jefferson.

If the weather cooperates, we will explore the Mass Central Rail Trail from Holden to Barre. Stay Tuned.

On Friday, October 21st - Lancaster - Wachusett Reservoir

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

STOP - The Fitness Ride Is Postponed

Reminder - Lancaster on Friday

Dear AdventuRiders,

Well, the trees are starting to change color, although the brightest colors I've seen is the poison ivy :-(

Unfortunately, the weather forecast is not looking good for tomorrow. Showers and thunderstorms with temps in the mid 60s doesn't sound ideal, but the weatherman has been wrong before

This ride will explore Lancaster (which was established 2 years before Groton), George Hill, Davis' Farmland, Mary Had A Little Lamb, a bit of the beautiful Mass Central Rail Trail, Wachusett Reservoir and Dam, Clinton Center, and if we have time, the old Girl's Reformatory School (whew).

Unfortunately, I will not be able to stay for lunch due to parent / teacher conferences.

On Friday, October 14th - Lancaster

• The Fitness Ride will leave at 9:30 AM.
• We will return by 12:30 PM.
• Starting Point Map - Lancaster - Thayer Field.
• Route Map - Lancaster - MCRT - Wachusett Dam.
• Distance = 25 Miles.
• Elevation Gain = 700 feet (more difficult) includes 1 Cat 5 (easiest category) hill.
• Unpaved = 3 Miles, but very smooth.
• Equipment - Any sturdy, well maintained bike will work. I plan to bring my road bike and flippers :-)

AR Index = Roughly equivalent to 32 flat, paved miles.

Hope to see you there,

Bill and Carole

GO - Potanipo Pond, Brookline, NH

Bring a warmth layer and a wind / drizzle layer. We'll have a yummy lunch too.