Triumphrat

bobmig · 06-19-2007

I'm studying maps and trying to refine this summer's trip down east, and I think it's time to solicit input. Would like to hear from anyone who has ridden stretches of these roads or has info which would be helpful. You know the kind of stuff... general road condition, availability of fuel, etc.

It looks like we'll cross into the US at Cornwall, Ont., and then head to Plattsburg, NY via Malone and Rte 374. From there, cross Lake Champlain and pick up Rte. 2 which we'll take all the way to Bangor, ME. Then it will be Rte. 9 to Calais/St. Stephen, NB. From there on to Saint John, NB via Rte 1. From there we'll head into Nova Scotia. The Bay of Fundy ferry would be fun, but if it means riding to a schedule to meet the reservation, I think we'll take the long way 'round via Moncton/Truro instead.
Any thoughts or comments?? :???:
Bob

markbvt · 06-20-2007

From the Plattsburgh area, you'll have a number of options. If time is your main motivator, just take the ferry from Plattsburgh to Grand Isle, but if you're more interested in the ride, you'd be better off taking one of the bridges over Lake Champlain. You would have two choices:

Either head north from Plattsburgh on Rt 9, make a right onto 9B north of Chazy, follow 9B to Rouses Point, then take the bridge over to Alburgh and ride south through the Champlain Islands. (Note: you could cut off Plattsburgh entirely by taking Rt 11 across northern NY.) Stay on Rt 2 through the islands and end up in Burlington. From there I would take Rt 2 to Montpelier, then get on Rt 302 to Woodsville, NH, Rt 10 south to North Haverhill, Rt 116 east (really nice road) until it intersects Rt 112, then 112 east over the Kancamagus Highway to Conway, then hook back up with 302 into Maine.

Better yet, head south from Plattsburgh on Rt 9. Where Rt 9 runs directly next to I-87, make a left onto Rt 22, ride down past Port Henry, and take the bridge over to Vermont. From the bridge, follow Rt 17 (pay attention in Bristol -- Rt 17 and 116 merge, then 17 splits off again a short distance north). 17 will take you over the Appalachian Gap, which is a wonderful set of twisties, then drop you down onto Rt 100 in Waitsfield. Take 100 north, then 100B, then hook up with Rt 2 in Middlesex and follow my directions above from Montpelier on.

Enjoy the trip!

--mark

merlin · 06-23-2007

When you've finished crossing the Kancamangus, turn around and do it again. Jeepers, what a great road!

UraniumC · 06-23-2007

Bob,

The Kancamagus Highway is truly a great ride. Be sure to make time to pull off at several of the incredible viewing areas.

As you near the eastern end, there is a road that cuts off to the North before Conway. If you have the time, take this up to 302 to 3 and back down into Lincoln. It's a beautiful loop and gives you another run thru the Kancamagus before heading over to Maine.

You'll want to avoid 16 north thru Conway. Very congested with tourist headed to the outlet shops.

If you find yourself in Southern NH, 123 is one of my personal favorites. Doesn't have the spectacular scenery to the North, just a nice twisty road thru the woods and small towns.

Cheers,

JC

bennybmn · 06-24-2007

Take Mark's second reccomendation

Rode that with him and others at the New England Raid a couple years ago. Remember Hank's tank slapper?!?

bobmig · 07-02-2007

Thanks for the input, guys. We'll definitely try this suggestion. And as we'll be both going and returning, that leaves it open to explore other routes on the way back.
Bob