September 7, 2008 Hoosick to Hinsdale

September 7, 2008
Hoosick Falls to Hinsdale, Ma.

Miles : 68 miles Terrain / Elevation: rolling to hilly - 2485 ft.

We decided to delay the ride one day for the weather to clear. No need to start this adventure wet!! It was a smart decision, for the weather was perfect and the views spectacular!!! I met my riding and sag buddies at the Stewarts in Hoosick @ 8 am. For the first three days of this trip, I have the luxury of a support team; riding companion, van support, and the warmth of friendship to share the experiences of this trek. I owe them so much and appreciate their enthusiasm and support! We departed @ 8:45 am. The terrain was a comfortable balance of great climbs, screaming descents and gentle rollers. As we crested a peak in Searsburg, we were greeted with a strong, low hum created by a line of at least eight wind turbines. Each blade is 100 ft. long. A graveyard, complete with American flags blowing silently in the wind, was the foreground of the distant towering turbines.
On Rt. 9 in Marlboro, a sculpture gallery was spotted to the left. As we entered, a man was carving out the center of a very large log in an open garage/studio. He welcomed us to ask questions and look around. His gallery and work spaces were fascinating. He brought us to one of his wood storage sheds. We were amazed at the size and types of wood that he and his wife (also a sculptor) have accumulated over the years to use for future projects. During our conversation, he revealed that sculpting was his second, full time occupation. His first was as a fifth grade teacher in a school less than a mile from his beautiful home.
Many stops were made for picture taking, talking with the locals, and soaking up the incredible views. We rolled into Hinsdale Campground (already set up!) around 6 pm. After a long, hot shower, we drove back into Brattleboro for a unique and satisfying dinner at the Royal Diner. Our waitress was certainly entertaining!! Be sure to stop by if you are ever in the area!
Today’s ride brought us into four states * NY / VT / MA / NH