Today’s ride was easy going. The Erie Canal Trail was mostly unpaved crushed gravel and hugged the shores of the Canal. There were very few other cyclists riding this section, and the small villages that I passed, were quiet, due to it being a Sunday of a long weekend.
One of the highlights of today was seeing the Medina waterfalls right from the trail. Right around the waterfalls the trail is very rough and it is recommended that cyclists walk their bikes. So the view of the falls is a beautiful reward for a bit of a rough ride.
A bit further down the trail I came upon a fallen tree. Now, the trees along the Erie Canal are mature trees, so this fallen tree was blocking the entire trail. I had to take everything off the bike and carry the bike over the tree. Just as I had done so, I saw a flurry of activity ahead and that turned out to be two trail maintenance employees who were contacted by someone who let them know that a tree was down and blocking the canal trail. They moved the tree and cleared the pathway shortly thereafter.
Today I camped at the Red Rock Ponds RV resort. They have an area designated for cyclists who are riding the Erie Canal and it is a grassy area close to their maintenance buildings. The grassy area is also very close to a comfort station that has washrooms, showers and laundry, there is also a power outlet in the vicinity and drinking water. The campground is beautifully maintained, the washrooms are very clean, and the staff highly welcoming. I would absolutely recommend this campground for anyone who is interested in staying outside of Albion. They do suggest you call and book ahead, but seeing as I was the only cyclist who stayed there, if you show up, they will most likely accommodate you.
Overall, today was a bit of a monotonous ride. The Erie Canal Trail from Lockport to Holley is exposed, there isn’t much shade, which is something that is important to keep in mind. Today’s weather was unusually sunny and hot, and it was difficult to stay cool as there was nowhere to hide from the scorching sun.
However I loved being accompanied by butterflies as opposed to mosquitoes and black flies, and enjoyed watching boats pass me by along with multiple wildlife, birds, geese and ducks all enjoying the Erie Canal.
Wheels on a Bike 