Playing Hopskotch Through The Mohawk Valley

Utica, NY to Amsterdam, NY
64 miles
1,608 feet ascent
1,568 feet descent
2,722 calories

The remnants of hurricane Florence came through New York state last night, but by dawn the rain had stopped, so it was good enough for riding.  I kept to the roads most of the day though as the canal paths were muddy and it would have been a mess.

Much of today's route involved jumping back and forth over the Mohawk River and the NY State Thruway going down the Mohawk Valley. 

Mohawk River

NY State Thruway

Route 5S

Despite the presence of the highway, much of the area retains its rural, small town nature with farms everywhere, some cemeteries, and remnants of old homes

"Spot" The Cow

Old Abandoned House 

1800's Cemetery

By midday the skies were clearing and the temperature started creeping up to make for another day of riding in "the sauna" from the high humidity.  A few serious hill climbs made for some rough riding, but the rewards were some scenic vistas and long downhill coasting segments.

Hills Above Mohawk Valley 

Mohawk Valley View

Salty Snack Hill Climb Break

After sweating it out most of the day, I came across a laundromat, so I decided to take  break from the heat, cool off, and clean some clothes.  While there a young 71 year old guy on a bike rolled through, so I had to chat with him.  "Ron" is riding the same route as I am, but will finish in Massachusetts just North of Boston.

Ron From Michigan 

It worked out well as the temperature cooled down some, and a nice tailwind had started when I resumed.  I rode it all the way to Amsterdam.  It seems New York has the most towns named after European cities; Rome, Amsterdam, Frankfort, and many more.
Although I could have spent the night at the Amsterdam Castle like royalty, I opted for Knight's Inn instead.  Close enough.

Amsterdam Castle

Knight's Inn

Lastly, I spotted this oddity along the route today.  Must be some kind of New York cornfield scarecrow or something : )

NY Cornfield Scarecrow