Cycling the Finger Lakes

This past week I visited the USA for July 4th and went to the Finger Lakes district in New York state for a short cyling adventure. I love to support our friends south of the border on their special day. The US does so many good things for the world, its is time we give back to them. However, the fireworks are on July 3rd the night before the 4th. It was a quiet scene when I arrived!

I stayed in the town of Geneva, which is centrally located in the lake district, just south off Hwy I-90. The finger lakes area is an area of 11 majour lakes and  the area where the 5 bands of the Iroquois created the first Indian federation, under the Chief Hiawatha.

The number of cycling routes in this disctrict are endless, and one needs to spend a great amount of time to see it all. Some of the points of interest are Watkin's Glenn, a beautiful water chasm, Ithaca, the home of Cornell University, Skeaneatlas, the summer vacation spot of the Clinton's. For more detail see http://www.fingerlakes.org/

My favourite route is a 50 km tour of lake Owasko, starting at Emerson Park and following the lake on the east and west sides, with beautiful scenic views of the water.

At the southern point of the lake is the charming town of Modalvia, where there is a cute outdoor farmer's market, where you can buy fresh fruit, taste local wine and buy some ahmish pastries. I tried a blueberry turnover which was so yummy.There are a variety of nice local eateries there too.

At the top of the lake near Emerson Park is the new Green Shutters restaurant, which has been redone with a beautiful outdoor eating area and Irish Pub, an indoor diner and banquet area. You can even honk your horn and they will serve you like a good old fashioned drive in. Its just like Arnold's from Happy Days.

The town of Skaneatles is a very posh and monied vacation spot, thanks to the Clinton's and friends. A nice place to check out if you are in the district.

Next time you are travelling I-90, take a night in Geneva's Days Inn and explore the cycling. You won't be dissappointed.

Cycle On,

The Adventure Guy

If you enjoyed the information in this post, please click on an advertisement link, as this is how we support our research for our readers. Thank you.