Enjoying Sunday’s Incredible October Weather

We don't often get a Sunday like the one we experienced yesterday, with sunshine and temperatures well into the low 80's. Did you get out to enjoy it?

We decided to get out on the bikes and take a ride on a few parts of the 85-miles of trails here in Rochester we don't often get a chance to use. We live near the Cascade Lake Trail in northwest Rochester, and use that trail fairly often for biking and jogging.

However, yesterday, we decided to explore the Bear Creek Trail in southeast Rochester. We loaded the bikes up in my SUV and drove over the the Soldier's Field Park parking lot off South Broadway. We then headed out on the trail that took us along the Zumbro River, past Government Center and Mayo Civic Center. After using one of the many pedestrian bridges that line the river downtown, we ended up on the Bear Creek Trail.

The trail itself pretty much follows the Bear Creek, as it winds through southeast Rochester, from Slatterly Park to the wooded area behind Mayo High School. It was a beautiful day to be outside, and the fall colors that are just starting turn made for a very scenic ride.

We rode the trail to Smetka Park, and then doubled back along 11th Avenue southeast until we caught up with the Bear Creek Trail again behind Mayo High School. On the return trip, we stayed on the trail, which took us along side Mayo Field right through to Silver Lake Park. After avoiding the Canadian geese, we then rode the 'Silver Lake Loop,' around the lake before taking the trail back through downtown to Soldier's Field Park.

We're lucky we live in a city that has so many great trails to enjoy, whether you're out on your bike, out for a jog, or maybe just taking a walk. And yesterday was a great day to get out and take advantage of them-- something I'm hoping to remember during that long, cold stretch of weather we all know is lurking not too far ahead!