The London Ohio Strawberry Tour has been on my radar for years. Yesterday I finally got a chance to participate! I opted for the 44 mile route as I’m not nearly as in-shape as previous years. It was a really nice, mostly flat ride. The first stop was well stocked with everything from home-made Belgian waffles (a staple of all Friend’s of Madison County events) and chocolate covered strawberries! Stop 2 was a simple water stop, but I had some fun conversations with other riders as we filled up our bottles.
Remember kids, don’t waffle while biking!
This year’s ride was special as the money was used to help finish the Ohio to Erie trail gap in London, Ohio. Presently the trail ends in the south of London, forcing riders to traverse the streets to rejoin the trail on the other side of town. From what one of the volunteer’s was telling me, the contract has been secured to finish the trail and (if all goes well), it should be done in about 1.5 years!
Mmmm, chocolate covered strawberries.
The Ohio to Erie trail is one of the most impressive things Ohio has to offer (in my opinion). It’s a 326 mile trail, 245 of which is dedicated, paved bike path. It connects Ohio’s 3 major cities, Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland. There’s also branch trails leading to places like Yellow Springs. The trail is dotted with beautiful small towns, free campsites and guest houses.
While there’s a lot of terrible things about my country, the Ohio to Erie trail and events put on by volunteer organizations to maintain and expand the trail are truly incredible and give me hope.
A well stocked rest stop manned by volunteers.
Ride on!