Last weekend we went in the heat of the day to explore a new place for riding.  We walked about a mile and melted.  Heading back to the car we planned to come back today, but early so that we could avoid the heat, and ride the trail.

The day started out at 78, overcast, and a bit steamy, but beautiful compared to what we have suffered lately.  We rode 11 miles and I remembered to bring my camera!  I tease Bob a lot because he over plans things, but in this instance I’m very glad of his zealousness where being prepared is concerned, because he got everything ready last night!  Including my camera!

The trail we took is paved and is called the Aldridge Creek Greenway.  It runs roughly about 7 miles round trip when you include the ride through Ditto Landing and then along the Tennessee River.  If you take some of the side roads it increases the distance a bit more.  We followed it all the way along the creek, under the bridge and into the Ditto boating facility where there is a lovely little campground.

So come on along and enjoy the scenery!

Canadian Geese, resting on an island of limestone in the creek, cast lovely reflections on the water.

Bob comes back to see “What’s keepin [me].”

Just over this crest is the Tennessee River.   It was a much more pleasant experience when it was cool let me tell ya!

Following in Bob’s dust I chanced to meet this fellow.  His name was Paul and he said he came from St. Louis in the 70’s, before the space program fizzled, and has been here ever since.  His interesting mode of transport is a Trikke.   (find out more by clicking on the word)

At the end of the trail we had reached the steep bank of the Tennessee River and found…

Kayak and Scull rowers…

A very large Heron… though I couldn’t tell you the type.  UPDATE: This may be a Great Blue Heron.  <— Click for more info.

Looking at Hobbs island to your left and the mountains in the distance, I somehow found this view satisfying  even though it is overcast.

On the way back I liked this view of the old train trestle…

Though Bob the ex-model RR buff preferred this one.

Like the artist Monet I am fond of reflections.  The creek was very calm and thus encouraged my photo efforts to capture these fine reflections.  Again, the overcast day did not seem to diminish the subject.

In this photo I have played a trick… can you guess what I have done?

And finally, a shot taken by Bob…

And although I look very hot I felt great and had a wonderful time!