Archive for September, 2009
Kettle Moraine Ride
by Bob on Sep.21, 2009, under Personal
Sometimes you need a day to yourself. Whatever the reason…. to collect and organize your thoughts, to get away from your daily routine, to reset your brain. In my case it was partly those things, but mostly it was to ride where I wanted to ride, stop when I felt like it and travel at the speeds I dictated.
My original thought was to ride to Kewaskum then head back north through the Kettle Moraine State Forrest on the scenic drive. However, being alone, I had the luxury of changing plans on the fly. I ended up going all the way to the northern edge of West Bend before turning north. This allowed me to experience much more of the scenic drive.
The day began with a hearty breakfast at The Old 41 Diner, on the corner of Green Bay Road and Main Street in Neenah. I only mention this because I recommend this diner, but be warned, show up hungry!
Going south toward Oshkosh I decided to take a side trip to Asylum Point Park. This is not a park in the sense of playgrounds and soccer fields. It is more of a wildlife area with lake frontage and a lighthouse.
click ANY photo for larger view
I continued on through Oshkosh, Fond Du Lac and Kewaskum. Along the way I stopped to admire the landscapes.
The twists, turns and hills of the roads in this area make for a rewarding riding experience. However, if you get off your bike occasionally and take the time to explore your surroundings you will find an even deeper connection to the land and community. This church is no longer operational but it is on the historic register.
I find it necessary to occasionally stop to stretch and walk around for 5 minutes before continuing on. After all, I am on a small (125cc) bike with a pretty stiff suspension. Here is one such stop.
The landscape of this area is dotted with churches, each seeming to host its own cemetery. I like to walk through these cemeteries and read the headstones. Not out of morbid curiosity, but to gain a sense of the history of the region. Many of these people were born in the 1700′s. Others fought in the civil war, as noted by these markers.
With my brain reset and a renewed appreciation for the Kettle Moraine area I begin a fresh work week. I fully intend to return to this area for a fall ride, taking alternate roads and passing through different communities. Until then, enjoy the ride.
