Left in a hectic dash this morning to bike the six miles along the Niagara River to get to the bridge that would take us back into the states. Yesterday, we had watched the stack-up of traffic inching across the border, so wanted an early start to wait in line.  Maybe it was the hour, maybe this particular bridge, but we got to the bridge with ease and were instructed to just follow the cars!Thankfully, the traffic was not heavy as we approached the six lane interstate bridge with cars and trucks.It was a bit hairy, strange but safe experience.  No welcome to states sign, but did catch the flag on the middle of the bridge.This side of the river we were back into the country and small townswith an occasional mansion thrown into the mix.It was a pretty, yet warm morning……Jerry had wanted summer and though it had taken until mid-August to feel it, summer was definitely here.

Can’t say we just bumped into him, but those of you from Virginia Beach may recognize this guy. Travis has been talking about joining us for this ride since before we left; he finally bit the bullet and met us.  Not sure if he picked this point because of the course today, but it was a great way to start off.  At 10:30 we biked through Lockport and dropped down along the Erie canal. Wind at our backs and a flat course along the canal made for a great day of riding; even the duckies enjoyed it.We saw large fields, pretty churches across the river and apple orchards just being harvestedand picked.Must be time for lunch. Found a great place right off the canal, but will not show you Jerry’s meatloaf sandwich with a side of mash potatoes, all smothered in gravy.

Our only paved portion of the towpath was so rough at points we had to walk our bikes.  It was a beautiful day being pushed along the canal by the nice tailwind and surprised to see very few peopleand only one boat.A bend in the river, the northern most point of the Erie Canal, and we were at our destination, filled with more churches in a one block radius than you would think possible. Biked through town as we were on the outskirts, all done for the day.