BigTrip2011 – Day3 – OH, PA, NY – Lake Erie and Niagara Falls

Day 3 was 311 miles and I rode in three different states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. This was the first time I’ve ridden in PA and NY, so I’m that much closer to the goal I set at the beginning of the year to add new states to my list.

As I was leaving the hotel, I saw this RV pulling out with two sidecars on the trailer. The occupants and I exchanged a hearty wave.

 

At a gas stop during the day, I saw some motorcycles riding around in a parking lot. I walked over for a closer look and realized they were teaching a BRC. It looked like exercise 15. I found it interesting the coaches don’t wear the ANSI-2 shirts like we do in Minnesota.

From Ashland, OH I rode north on I-71 and to Geneva on the Lake, OH which is on Lake Erie. This is my first view and visit of the lake. It was very relaxing. I found a bench in the shade and just listened/watched the lake for nearly an hour.

I continued riding along the lake following Lake Rd. It eventually ended and left me on US-20 which I could have followed all the way to Buffalo. This was the plan when I was looking at maps the night before, but I thought I would try to be smarter than the GPS and take a “short cut”. It didn’t work out. I spent over an hour riding around and still ended up back on US-20. I did manage to get some looks at Lake Chautauqua (below)

 

It was nice, but I was eager to get to my friend’s house in Buffalo. I made up with the GPS, and wound my way through the New York country side. The scenery has gotten much nicer the further northeast I go. It has transformed from the flat plains of Indiana/Central Ohio to rolling tree covered hills in New York. I found myself on NY-39 riding up and down large hills. Many of the hills were covered in vineyards. I can imagine the area being a lot more popular come fall with brilliant fall colors and tasty beverages.

 

I arrived at my friend’s house at last! She took me in her car to see Buffalo and Niagara Falls.

Lots of industrial chemical plans on the way to the falls.

My first view of Niagara Falls. You can see the Canada on the far side. Silly me forgot my passport on my desk at home, so we didn’t cross over.

This is one of my favorite shots of the entire day.

More shots of the falls

Horseshoe falls with Canada in the distance

It was a good day of riding, and a great time with my friend.

I’m writing this as I sit on her couch. Outside I have seen a squirrel, a chipmunk, a deer, and woodpecker all enjoying the bird food in her yard.

Time to go explore some more of Buffalo in the daylight.