As Guelph has grown over the last decade or so, one of the many downsides has been the increased traffic outside the city. Roads that were previously quiet and safe – Downey, County 29, Marden, just to name three – have become sketchy corridors full of impatient drivers in luxury SUVs and unnecessarily large pick up trucks doing high-speed passes with inches to spare. Quel dommage.
On the plus side, this development has forced me to find new routes, to explore places I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. I’m a creature of habit, more inclined to do the same things over and over rather try something new. But forced out of my comfort zone, I’m usually pleasantly surprised by what I find.
This Sunday route features a run down 7th line into Everton. I’ve done it on club rides before, including a few Thursday’s ago, but I always forget how nice it is. So we’re going to do it on Sunday, along with familiar staples like Jones Baseline and Fourth Line and Victoria Road. We’ll stop in Rockwood at either Heaven on 7 or the Eramosa River Cafe (or even the godforsaken Country Style at the gas station if it comes to that.)
John Lyall is doing a 125km leg-breaker starting from the Y on Kortright down to Dundas for his Long & Fast and it should be tough but fun. But this is truly a different option: shorter, flatter and, hopefully, a little quieter. Choice is a good thing, especially living in a city where the pace of growth is clearly beyond our control.
Bringing lights is always a good idea.
Club kit is on sale again for only one week. Click here for great GCC riding apparel!
Load the route on your bike computer if you have one, here’s how.
Speed will be between 27-30 kph average
GCC members only. To become a member join HERE
Advance sign-up required. Reserve your spot by clicking HERE
Start Time: please be ready to pedal at 8:00 AM
Start Location: East End Library at Starwood and Watson
Check here for weather cancellation posted no less than one hour before the ride begins
Route: The Medium Moderate Sunday Ride will be following the map below
