Neil Fein's Blog

Neil called me tonight from his campsite approximately 15 miles from Confluence. (No, I have no idea where these things are. Apparently Confluence is near Cumberland, if that helps anyone. I think they're still in Pennsylvania.)

During the ride today, the Neils met up with Judy (from Bike Forums) and her 14-year-old daughter Libby. Judy and Libby took the Neils in their car from the trail to visit Falling Water, a famous house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Also joining them was a guy they met on the trail who is doing the same trip. (Sorry, but I forgot to write down the name of the other guy.)

After getting back to the trail, Judy and Libby took all the bags from the Neils and drove on, which meant that the Neils could ride unencumbered for a bit (although Neil says that the bike is holding up well with the load). Then all four of them went about 15 miles up in the mountains to a campsite, where they're going to spend the night.

Tomorrow is going to be what Neil thinks will be the toughest day -- 49 miles over hills. But both Neils decided to mail some stuff home (or in my Neil's case, to DC), including the guitar, which was making PA Neil feel unbalanced. That should make it easier.

Neil's been doing laundry about every other day, and he says that seems to work fine. But he also told me that the guy they visited Falling Water with is doing the same trip with just two panniers and a Solitaire tent. So maybe Neil could reduce his load even further for future tours.

As y'all can probably tell, I finally remembered to take notes tonight, which is why I have details about where they are and who they're with. I'll update again tomorrow night.

Labels: bicycle, bike, touring