Scenic Sunday Ride - Seven Lakes Dr

As I stepped out my door into the humid summer air carrying my bike I thought I must be out of my mind! But, onward I went, loaded the bike onto the bike rack and headed out on what would become my first 20 mile ride. I pulled into the parking area for Lake Skannatati, late, and found my friend (K) in a nice shaded area, waiting. We didn't waste any time, got our bikes ready to go and off we went!

We headed southwest on Seven Lakes Dr, and took the 1st exit at the traffic circle onto CR 106W. We were approaching a lake and I noticed an artist set up on the edge of the lake painting an incredible landscape of what the sign would shortly tell us was Lake Kanawauke. We continued on our adventure and I noticed the lake was filled with Kayakers embarking on their own summer adventures. All I could do was smile! Continuing on and up hill, my friend called out, "Did you see that buck?" I of course was quite focused on getting up the hill and didn't have anything but the top in my eyesight. (TIP: While riding through beautiful scenery, remember to look up every once in a while!!). We made it to Little Long Pond, which has a nice little beach at the far end, and folks were taking advantage of natures swimming pool!

The next leg was a pretty steady incline which eventually came to a spot that overlooked Lake Stahahe. The beauty in making it to the top of a hill is what comes after...a much needed (at least for me) downhill coast!!! As we got to the bottom of the hill, K pulled off so I followed him. He had quite the smirk on his face and pointed up to the highway, "that's the thruway," he said. I had my own smirk and nodded. For those of you who don't know the area, we had two options. One, ride back up the long, windy, hilly road we came down. Or, take RT 17 down, and up its own hills to the other end of Seven Lakes Dr. Of course going back wasn't an option! We finally made it to Seven Lakes Dr, and found a shaded area to pull off for a well deserved break!

As we sat there catching up, our conversation was interrupted by the sound of distant thunder and a dark looking sky coming our way. "Looks like we'll be chasing the storm," I said. "More like the storm will be chasing us," K replied. And just like that, back on the bikes we got! What I didn't know, this part of Seven Lakes Dr. is pretty much one big steady incline. Slow and steady I thought, and I did...and a long while later after passing Lake Sebago, and the other end of Lake Kanawauke we saw signs for the traffic circle! Of course I found a sudden burst of energy at the end of this 20 mile ride, and sped on back to the parking area for Lake Skannatati.

If you aren't familiar with Harriman State Park or Seven Lakes Drive, I would suggest doing some exploring. Be sure to download the free cycling navigation app from Bikepath Country before you go and plan the perfect ride for you.

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Preserve and Expand Bike Path Systems

Now here's a headline for you, "Maryland awards millions for bike paths".


With the current trend of people young and old converting to bike commuting, we need to take care of America's roads and bike paths even more. Although the above headline is great and extremely uplifting, we are still seeing headlines looking quite grim popping up all over the country. For example too recent headlines we found went as follows... "Why Spend Millions For a Bike Path?"  and "Lacking funds, City pauses on new South Waterfront path"...

There is still quite a bit of work to be done in order to ensure bike paths and commuting routes are properly taken care of. There's a lot of hype right now thanks to the recent National Bike Summit. We want to make sure this conversation and motivation keeps on full throttle, long after cyclists return home to their respective cities.

Here is just one example of a great grassroots effort taking place in Yorkville, IL in trying to raise funds to support the creation of a 2.72 mile bike path. http://pushforthepath.org/

Community is key! Let's keep this conversation going on a National level. If you know of paths in your area that need work, whether it be heavy path damage due to weather and heavy use, to a closed restroom you'd like to see reopen. Maybe you would like to see something as simple as water fountains installed. Let us know what you'd like to see happen in your town. Together we can preserve and expand the bike path systems.

Bikepath Country was established as a way to engage outdoor and health enthusiasts with socially responsible advertising while helping municipalities raise money for their parks and recreation department. Our goal is to help preserve and expand this country's bike path system, as well as promote a clean and healthy environment for the community.

5 Tips for Bike Riding in the Rain

"April showers bring May flowers" - a phrase we know well. As Spring is just around the corner here are some safety tips for riding in the rain.

1. Exercise Caution

Slow down your speed! When it rains, roadways will naturally get slippery. But also be sure to pay special attention to manhole covers, roadway paint, leaves, and train tracks,  as they will become extremely slick when wet. Are you familiar with those rainbow patches in the road? Well beware, those patches may be a sign of oil on the road. Make sure you do your best to avoid puddles. A deep puddle could have a surprise sewer grate or pothole underneath it leaving you with a flat. Ultimately, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. This will help you to stay focused on the conditions and hazards of the road.

2. Brake, Brakes, Braking!

As the road gets wet, braking will become increasingly difficult. Remember to start braking early, and in wet conditions it can be helpful to gently squeeze your brakes in order to ease into the stop. It's important to take care of your brakes. Brake pads can wear faster with the buildup of water and dirt, so be sure to wipe down your brake pads and rims after riding. Also remember to dry off your bike to help prevent it from rusting. This is especially important for chains, so be sure to keep them properly lubricated.

3. Increase Your Visibility

When it rains, visibility is decreased for both the cyclist as well as any car on the road. As windshields get wet, foggy headlights from other cars cause quite a bit of glare. This can easily cause a driver to not see a cyclist in their periphery. Make use of front, rear and even side lights in order to ensure you and your bike remain visible during all conditions.

4. Rain Ready Bike

Fenders are key! You don't like getting mud and dirt spitting up in your face? Invest in some fenders for your bike. There are multiple options from quickly attachable clip-on fenders, to metal fenders that require a screw. Take your pick, but don't leave home without them!

5. Rain Ready You

Dressing for the weather may seem like a no brainer, but make sure you are fully prepared for the conditions of the day! Dress in layers in order to ensure you remain warm. But, keep in my mind that rain in shine your body will still sweat. So make sure whatever clothing you make use of is properly ventilated. Keep your shoes dry by using neoprene booties which will help with insulation. Using a visor on your helmet will definitely help to prevent water from dripping in your eyes. In addition to the visor, find a good pair of glasses to help prevent water and mud from getting in your eyes and to help with visibility.

Feel free to share your rainy weather cycling tips with us! Happy Riding!