Expedition #25 - Chief Ladiga Bike Hike

Expedition Type: Bike Hike on Chief Ladiga Rail Trail from Piedmont, AL to GA state line and return, Sat., 10/23/2010 11:00-14:00
Distance: approx. 30 miles  Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate (due to mileage)
Conditions: Could not have ordered more perfect conditions!  Beautiful, clear sky.  Moderate temps.  Light breeze.  Trail conditions were great.  Hardwoods of the Piedmont Upland were at 50% or greater in their color change.  Vivid reds, warm yellows, and a smattering of purples, browns, and greens greeted us around every turn and across wide open fields.
Thoughts/Observations:
This was a fantastic expedition.  Total of twelve people attended.  We experienced wonderful weather, gorgeous vistas, and warm companionship.  GOD is certainly magnified in HIS creation and the Piedmont Upland area is a vivid example of HIS handiwork.  The hardwoods did not disappoint us as we soaked in the grandeur of Autumn.  Terrapin Creek and it's tributaries instilled a serene feeling as they slowly inched their way through the Dugger Mountain Wilderness.  Dugger Mountain itself stood guard to our south as we departed the Eubanks Welcome Center and headed to Georgia.  All along the route we were cocooned in the sounds, smells, and sights of GOD's Autumn works. 

Some of our group had never cycled that distance before, so this expedition was a personal challenge for them as well as a treat.  But they made it!  And I'm betting they're glad they kept cycling.

This expedition gave us all a chance to "get away" as well as an opportunity again to "be still and know GOD".  I trust that we all did.

Now This Is A Climbing Wall!

Now This Is A Climbing Wall!: "We've all seen some pretty cool climbing walls in our time. I've personally seen everything from your standard gym wall to some fairly challenging outdoor walls and even a floating climbing wall. But I've never seen anything like the climbing wall featured in this story over at OhGizmo!

Located in the town of Groningen in the Netherlands, this climbing wall is part of the Klimcentrum Bjoeks, a climbing gym that seems to have plenty to offer every level of climber. The Excalibur wall, as it is known, stands 37 meters (121 ft) in height and offers an overhang of 11 meters (36 ft). According to the story, there are routes on the wall for beginners all the way up to very experienced climbers, and is said to be the tallest climbing wall in the world. Very cool and impressive stuff. Looks like fun!"

Anyone for a "Road Trip"??? <

Google Reveals Its Testing Unmanned Cars on US Streets

Google Reveals Its Testing Unmanned Cars on US Streets

Robotic cars... I don't know if the thought of robotic cars would scare me anymore than having to deal with cars that are piloted by some humans today??? The robots might not be as dangerous... what do you think??? At least the robots would not be taking their "eyes" off the road to send a text message, search for a hair brush, put on make up, or try to read a map!

Leave it to Google to be the one that tests it out. Very interesting article. Enjoy.

Missing Hiker Edward Rosenthal Survives 6 Days Without Food, Water

Missing Hiker Edward Rosenthal Survives 6 Days Without Food, Water

A "Real Life" tale of a hiker who got lost in Joshua Tree National Park while on a day hike. Six days later he is found alive!!! The area of Joshua Tree is desert-like and could quickly claim a life. This man has a lot to be thankful for. GOD was looking after him.

A good reminder to always be prepared - know where you're going (map/compass), leave trip particulars with friends, acquire necessary skills/knowledge, and pack for emergencies!