On a Tuesday morning when the weather forecast was "Iffy" at best (Humid, Possible showers, etc) Ron Altemus, Robin Garnett, Oswald Martin, Donaro Gardner, and Linda Bankerd Joined Sherwood Byers, Ride Leader for a ride to Great Falls Park. Two of the riders had never been Great Falls, nor had they never ridden the C &O Canal. I was a bit concerned due to it's not so kind gravel trail, but they did just fine. The ride started on time and continued to Fletcher's Boathouse for our first stop. After a short respite, we continued our trek. There was a short detour about 2 miles from Fletcher's, but was easy to navigate through it. Not mush wildlife to be seen but there was a deer in the water in the canal eating the vegetation (Personally, I have never seen a deer in the water). Someone thought he was stuck in the mud, not the case at all.
A short stop at lock 6 for a photo op and quick visit of the lock house for rent we continued.
Continuing to Great Falls we stopped at the overlook where a lot of time viewing the falls and taking photos as some had never seen Mother Nature's work.
A visit to the parks visitor center we rested for a while then continued up the trail for a little exploring the condition of the trail for further use. It was time to turn around and retrace the route to the ride start but a decision was made to deviate from the Memorial Bridge to get away from the work being performed in preparation for the Military Parade. The fencing everywhere made it difficult to ride. it was thought that we could cross the 14th Street Bridge to make the passage easier, no it did not. The fencing was everywhere. After crossing the bridge, we were in "Happyland". Smooth riding to our vehicles.
No Mishaps or Mechanical issues were reported me during this ride. The weather was perfect.
I wish to thank all of the riders who joined me today.
