Cycle the Erie Canal Intro

From  Sunday, July 9 through the next eight days I took part in the bike tour traveling along the  Erie Canal.

I have been looking forward to this for a complete year.  When I returned from the MUP tour I had an email that mentioned that they had just completed the tour.  Tour registration did not open for months and this provided me time to read the information from the website.  https;//www.ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal/itinerary

In 8 days of cycling they say you will cover 400 miles.  Our days ranged 40-60 miles.  The website accurately described the trip.  I found no surprises.

I am sitting in front of my tent which was part of a tent city.

On my earlier tours I will bring my own tent.  This year I decided to try the tent service.  This tour uses Comfy Camper.  They were responsible for the set up and tear down of the tent.  An aero bed mattress, towel and chair were provided.  I am now spoiled and will look to use a tent service again.  My advice, set your reservation early. Only so many spots are available.

This photo does not show all the tents. I never counted how many were set up by them.

I am not sure what number they started identifying the tents. I had the same tent and mattress all week. Glad that it held the air.

This arrangement allowed me to have a good night's sleep.  That is so important on a tour.  Each day you would need to tear down your tent and move on.  I also did not have the worry about dealing with set up and tear down in the rain.  If you get rid of some worries that is a big help. 

The tour provided options for long-term parking at both ends.  A shuttle for the rider and bike were also available.

These are my two pieces of luggage. They were easy for me to transport to and from the luggage truck.

My wheeled duffel from REI was new.  My roll bag last year broke a wheel.  The terrain can be rough and  they are being handled by others.  The ebag in the chair held all my riding clothes and as the week went on the dirty ride clothes.  Backpack straps made it easy to carry.  Last year I used a shoulder strap duffel.  I am sticking with this set up.

Here is the list of items for a year without the tent service.