Author Topic: An Australian in the States  (Read 5324 times)

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Offline Ozzie

An Australian in the States
« on: November 01, 2007, 07:22:20 am »
Hi, I live in Cairns, far north Queensland, Australia. I'll be in the States from April 2008 with the intention of connecting with the start of Ragbrai in late July. I have a very general request. I'd like advice on the most interesting tour for a retiree and solo cyclist for this period of time travelling on a fully loaded bike! My criteria includes: Not too many hills; plenty of interesting towns to travel through; varied scenery; chance to meet plenty of people; minimal long isolated sections.
I have the maps for "Lewis and Clark" but have been advised its a little boring. I can land anywhere in the States and can use rail to get from the end of the ride to IOWA for Ragbrai. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Ozzie.


FredHiltz

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An Australian in the States
« Reply #1 on: November 01, 2007, 09:31:48 am »
Hi Ozzie,

I'll suggest east central US at that time of year, where spring will be well under way by mid-April. From southeastern Pennsylvania south to North Carolina there are many fine routes. Plenty of towns with not much distance between and terrain varied from the seacoast to the mountains. When the hills get too big, just head back east.

You will probably land in a big city and the hardest part of the trip may well be getting out of there to the rural areas. You might consider the Atlantic Coast route as sort of a backbone route, with side trips to sites that interest you. The Cyclists Yellow Pages part of the Adventure Cycling web site contains links to state cycling maps and brochures as well as guide books for the area.

Fred


Offline Ozzie

An Australian in the States
« Reply #2 on: November 01, 2007, 07:21:22 pm »
G'day. Thanks for the great advice - particularly seasonal considerations. I'll now get out my map of the States and see what routes I can plan around east central US. I'll keep you updated on this forum of my planning and continue to invite any thoughts from members. Thanks again, Ozzie.