Climate Ride 2018

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NovaScotia

Nova Scotia – Cape Breton Island

September 22, 2018  ~  September 26, 2018
(See ride report below)

I am super excited to have participated in another Climate Ride.  This group is amazing and inspires me to keep riding and I couldn’t resist this one.  For this adventure I will be donating the cost of my trip which allows the majority of your donations to go directly to the beneficiary of choice.  I will ride to raise awareness for two non-profit organizations in San Diego, beautifulPB and Climate Action Campaign.  beautifulPB has become an Eco-District and implemented many wonderful community projects while the Climate Action Campaign advocates throughout San Diego County for a healthy environment.  Both advocate for the value of bike transportation and bike infrastructure as well as many important sustainable practices.

Blix Crew
The Blix crew utilizing electric bikes as clean, energy efficient, alternative transportation. Wonder women: Nicole Burgess – San Diego BikeWalk-D2 founder; Nicole Capretz – Executive Director, Climate Action Campaign; beautifulPB Board Members Paula Gandolfo and Kristen Victor.

For those that know me, you know I love to ride my bike near and far.   I ride for transportation, health, freedom, and fun.  I am always excited to talk bikes and show others around town;  to learn and enjoy the beauty of riding.  Please let me know if you ever want to join me on the road.

Nova Scotia Bike Riders

Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail

This is one of the world’s greatest rides; one that all touring cyclists should have on their “must-ride” list! The beautiful coast – the most dramatic in Nova Scotia – meets the breathtaking highlands in ways that make you appreciate both to the fullest and the scenic magnificence of the Cabot Trail which can be really savored at the speed of your bicycle.

The landscape and the people may demonstrate to you why Nova Scotia’s name means New Scotland. You will be able to explore the valley of the Margaree River, rich with salmon and its pursuit, climb the ascents and huge descents of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and on some days expand your rides onto beautiful wooded trails, all while staying at local inns, supporting their unique island economy and enjoying their individuality and charm. Many find that the highlight is a ride through beech woods to salmon pools, where salmon sometimes leap on their way upstream, and you can swim in deep pools below clear waterfalls. The cycling, although manageable by most cyclists includes some challenging sections, but we’re there to offer shuttles and daily mileage options for every cyclist. Local guides and environmental experts will enrich our understanding of the conservation and climate issues facing the Maritime Region.

Nova Scotia biking sunset

Support  the Biking Cause

I’ve enjoyed pedaling through Nova Scotia and appreciate all of your support, as it shows that you care about a healthy active lifestyle for our future.

Keep riding, flying, and believing.

Your bike friend,

~ Nicole

“The mode of transportation you choose has a greater effect on the environment
than any other decision you make as a consumer.”
     ~ Union of Concerned Scientists ~

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Nova Scotia ~ Ride Report
Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail

September 22, 2018  ~  September 26, 2018

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Arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada for the Cabot Trail Climate Ride on Cape Breton Island. I am here to explore, travel and ride for a purpose. Public Gardens in Halifax with Judi Tentor, Executive Director BikeSD.org

Saturday Day-1) Meet & greet in downtown Halifax for a 3 ½ hour transfer to Cape Breton. Settling into our accommodations in Baddeck and enjoying a Climate Ride welcome dinner. Prepare for our 200-mile cycling adventure.

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Greetings from Cape Breton. Climate Riders are ready to ride.

Sunday Day-2) Begin cycling over Hunter’s Mountain (500ft.) and along Middle River Valley to Lake O’Law. From there, very quiet paved and gravel roads to remote locations along the Margaree River Valley, before heading to the east side of Margaree River, to the ocean and then along the coast through the Acadian region to Cheticamp.  (Bike 60 Miles / Elevation Gain: 2655 ft)

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Monday Day-3) Today, a challenging day of cycling through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We climb two large hills of about 1400 feet. (Bike 44 Miles / Elevation Gain: 5110 ft)

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Cold morning start but the ride warmed up nicely and turned into a clear, bright autumn day full of idyllic, scenic views. Full Harvest Moon rising up over the Atlantic Ocean on this very clear evening. Expecting wet weather tomorrow.

Tuesday Day-4) Cycling the scenic route between Cape North and Neil’s Harbor, stopping for a short hike at spectacular White Point. Along the route, exploring swimming holes, waterfalls, beaches. Expecting heavy weather to move in this evening with very strong rains forecast for the next few days. We’re not in San Diego Toto! (Bike 35 Miles / Elevation Gain: 1780 ft)

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Wednesday Day-5) A long, undulating ride along the East Coast following an initial climb over Cape Smokey (950′). Finishing with a ride to Baddeck. (Bike 36 or 50 Miles / Elevation Gain: 2500 ft)