Let’s sit down with a fish fry and malty ale and catch up on a biking adventure, shall we?
On July 2nd, bike and I headed to Kewaunee, a small city on the shores of Lake Michigan, to explore a southern section of the Ahnapee State Trail. A few years ago, biking buddy and I rode the northern part of the trail, from Sturgeon Bay to Algoma, which ended up to be about 32 miles. This time it would be less, 22 miles, but I never go biking with speed or distance in mind. It is what it ends up to be, as the point of any adventure is to enjoy.
Kewaunee is a city with parental memories. It’s one of the places we would end up as a family on a hot summer’s day, when the breeze was off the lake and the temperatures more manageable. Mom and dad thought it a good place to pick up a nice piece of smoked salmon or chubs at the fish market. Smoked fish, garden tomatoes, corn on the cob, and potato salad made for a delicious warm-weather meal.
This particular Friday, the weather was perfect – low 70’s, low humidity, low wind and blue skies. I could not ask for more perfect biking weather.
The trail starts in town, catty corner from a large parking lot that overlooks inland waters and a city park with the necessary pre and post-biking restrooms.
The Ahnapee Trail begins straight and true, through grasslands and marsh. The name Ahnapee is of Ojibwe origin, with a town and river sharing this moniker.
The Ice Age Trail follows the Ahnapee Trail for most of its length, so you could probably say I killed two trails with one stone…or two bike wheels.
Who doesn’t love a light at the end of the tunnel?
Or a bridge over muddy waters?
The longest stretch (without crossing a road) on this section of the Ahnapee was through the CD Buzz Besany State Fish and Wildlife area. I did not see any fish or wildlife, save for a scampering bunny, but there existed a beautiful quiet among the trees and lack of other bicyclists as I pedaled along.
The southern end of the Ahnapee had its charming moments. This was one of them.
Overall, I had a very enjoyable ride, a tasty lunch with Wally Walleye, and a drive home with a precious package of smoked salmon. The latter is gone now, but not without serving up some summer memories and the question, “Why don’t I do this more often?”
The answer will come throughout the rest of summer and into autumn, as the weather cooperates. We’ve had bouts of higher than normal temps and dewpoints, and days of rain, but perhaps it will make the favorable biking days that much better.
Mary J Melange 
That looks like it was a wonderful adventure, Mary. I’m glad you got out to experience it and to beat the heat, score some fish and bring back a few childhood memories. Win-win-win as far as I can see. Thanks for sharing the photos. I hope yo have a great week.
That was a winner adventure, Dan. I can’t say enough how grateful I am for the wonderful state trail system here and the opportunities they present for days like that one. I hope to get back to the lakeshore a couple more times before the season ends to bike and enjoy the views.
This looks like so much fun. Your weather was perfect and you got to eat out. I haven’t done that in over a year now, so my measure of a good time is pretty simple. I say, do this ride again and again.
I’ve eaten in a few restaurants now, trying to choose the places with outside seating. The fish fry place had an outdoor balcony with a view of the water and there were only two other people sharing a fairly large space. It helped me feel safe while I could enjoy something other than what’s in my own fridge. I hope you eventually are able to safely get out and enjoy restaurant food too. Have a wonderful Monday!
So…..did Gibbs know about that smoked salmon? I’ve not ridden a bike in ages, but if I did it would be pretty dangerous around here. A few years ago, the city put in bike lanes on some streets, but nothing like the trails you have. If we had those, I would probably enjoy riding again.
Ha! Gibbs could smell the salmon from the other side of the apartment. I gave him a little treat, but don’t tell him I shared some of it with my neighbor friends. He’ll think he didn’t get his fair share.
I don’t like riding busy city streets or county roads either. It is much safer on the trails as long as you avoid the gopher holes and occasional land mines (horse poop, for example). I wish you could go back to riding a bike, but it sounds like you’ll have to stick with a nice walk instead.
A wonderful expedition! The photos just emphasize the beautiful day. Smoked salmon is such a delight when done right!! Now I’m wondering if there are any geocaches along the trail… and of course there are! 61 of them from Kewaunee to Clyde! This looks like the kind of trail I could really enjoy!
I’ve not gotten involved in geocaching, but I see how it can be interesting for you and others who are. I’m going to stick with pedaling and taking photos of nature’s treasures that I find.
What a wonderful bike trail Mary, it sounds like a wonderful place to explore! 💚
It is a pretty ride, Xenia. I’m very fortunate to have trails like this within driving distance.
Sounds like you had a perfect biking adventure and topped it off with some delicious eats.
That was yummy food, a tasty beer and great ride, Judy.
It looks like you’re having a great time and a great bike adventure on a beautiful trail!
Hopefully there are more adventures to come, Herman!
I drool over the thought of such mild weather! It sounds like a fun ride.
Here’s hoping you get your turn at mild weather and a fun day!
It looks like a grand adventure. And that fish! 😍
That piece of walleye and the sweet potato waffle fries underneath were so tasty! It had been a long time since I had a fish fry and a beer at a restaurant.
It is nice to enjoy a goos meal and brew out somewhere,