Fredericton 160 klm

I was in bed early and slept well at the Wooden Bridge B&B in Hartland. I got underway a little after 9 heading for nephews place  in Oromocto a bit east of Fredericton.  

I took route 105 along the east/north side of the river. Although it followed the river it was hilly, very hilly. Bottom gear 5 minute grind hilly.  Then down again and repeat. Very tiring. The road was not in great shape; potholes, broken pavement and no paved shoulder.  Had to pay attention,  particularly on the downhills so as not the hit a pothole or a crack at high speed. Fortunately there was very little traffic and the weather was great.

It was a pretty ride. More good views of the river and the farms. There were no towns or stores until 1 pm when I stopped at Nackawic for a light lunch. It was then that I discovered an error in my plan. Instead of 70 klm more I had 100.  It took some effort to keep discouragement at bay,  particularly with the thought of all the hills likely to be included.  

I pedaled on, trying to take the hills with humour and resisting the temptation to check time or distance for as long as I could. Once it got to the point that there was less than 50 to go I was able to relax.  Within a few more klm I decided to switch to the bike trail, the Sentier New Brunswick,  part of the transcanada trail. It parallelled my route much of the day but whenever I checked it looked too rough for me. But as I approached Fredericton it looked better so I gave it a try. Perfect timing.  It was smooth and within a few klm was paved and took me right in to town on a flat route.

At the heart of the Fredericton trail system is a former railway bridge converted for bikes and pedestrians. Must be over 500m across the river. 

The trail continued out the east side of town and a further 20 klm almost to nephews door in Oromocto. He and his roommate made a great batch of spaghetti for dinner. I was too tired to think of pictures so I hope I get a chance in the morning.

Thanks for the great hospitality Triston. 

Nice to meet Eric and "Rock" too.