Four Freedoms Trail

For a complete change of pace and pattern, I drove up to sleepy little Madison, FL Sunday morning to join Dennis, whom I had met at the Catrike Rally, in a visit to the recently opened Four Freedoms Trail. This trail runs north from Hanson, FL to the Withlacoochee River and Georgia border.

Except for a little exposure when passing through the veritable time warp of tiny Pinetta, FL, the trail is almost entirely canopied beneath the trees that lined the railroad line it replaced. From just above Pinetta to the river seemed to be a constant descent, though the return trip didn't really feel like a long climb. The grade must be rather subtle and the quiet beauty of the surroundings lure one's attention away from the details of propulsion. At the river's edge, the pavement ends just short of connecting to the remnants of the railroad bridge that once crossed the Withlacoochee and there is a newly constructed observation deck next to covered picnic tables. The walk down to the deck crosses the drive to a primitive boat launch.

Dennis and I spent most of the 11 miles chatting about other potential rides to be enjoyed in the area, including routes through Lee, Madison and around Cherry Lake. We also had the opportunity to meet up with another Madisonian, Steve Pike, out for a cruise on a Trek he had restored to service.

The view from the highway on the drive over was speckled with sightings of the white blossoms of dogwood and plum trees as they hinted Spring is just around the corner. With a steady breeze out of the north curling the Spanish moss, Sunday was one of those days that simply commands you open all windows and doors and let your house catch its breath. A day like this certainly calls for a return visit, soon.

O\vo~