My trip started at sunrise on a clear, bright morning in June. I was pleased to get clear of Long Island, head west across the George Washington Bridge into New Jersey and pick up Route 80 without a hitch. Anyone who rides in the New York metropolitan area knows that a jackknifed trailer, car fire, multi-car collision or even a flock of geese crossing the Long Island Expressway can bring traffic to a standstill at any hour, day or night. I did not want any surprises or mishaps to ruin my early morning escape.
By 6:30 a.m. I had crossed the Delaware River in western New Jersey and entered Pennsylvania. With the anxiety of rush hour traffic well behind and the open road ahead, I really felt as if my trip had begun. Midway through Pennsylvania, I pulled into a scenic overlook to stretch my legs and take a swig from my water bottle. I also drank in the view across a vast expanse of forested mountains, bright in the morning sun. I was so happy to be on the road again.
From Route 80 west I linked up with Route 81 south to Route 340 in Front Royal, Virginia, which led me to the top end of Skyline Drive. The weather had been pleasant all day. However, when I entered Shenandoah National Park, a ranger informed me that portions of the road ahead were quite foggy. I continued on, regardless.
