Saturday was the first day of spring. And unlike those Canadian March weekends where it starts snowing again, this first day of spring actually felt like the first day of spring. It was warm, above 10 degrees and brilliantly sunny. Sarah and I got out the gravel bikes and took them to her family farm in Prince Edward County for a couple of days of riding. Also, hot tubbing. Also, leisurely breakfasts.
Look at this breakfast!
We decided to explore the Millennium Trail: “The Millennium Trail is a 40+-km multi-use trail perfect for hiking, biking or even horseback riding. Stretching from Carrying Place to Picton, backing onto farmers’ fields and vineyards, it’s a great way to experience the tranquility of The County.”
Day 1 we pedaled from Picton to Bloomfield for coffee (usually it’s for ice cream but Slickers is still closed for the season.) Total distance about 20 km. There were still some snowy bits on the trail but lots of people were out enjoying the sunshine.
Bikes outside Bloomfield Public House Market 
Bike trail, with bonus mud and snow!
Best of the ride? While riding my mother texted the family chat to say that she has a Thursday appointment to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. Yay!
On Day 2 we rode from Wellington to Lake Consecon, through some beautiful wetlands on a brand new section of trail. Total distance about 30 km. From the website, “For summer 2020, the trail has been fully refurbished, including a section that glides past Slab Creek wetlands, a small jaunt from Stanner’s Vineyards, which is arguably the most beautiful part of the path: teeming with chirping birds of every flock and feather, toads and turtles, an occasional snake, and yes, even, beavers. It’s home to four herons nests and a vibrant, yet peaceful part of the trail.”
Look swans!
There was some ATV traffic on that section but everyone was patient and polite. I would definitely recommend this as a family friendly bike ride. It’s clearly marked where the path crosses roads and given that parts of the trail were rail line, there’s no significant elevation. Also there are frequent km marker signs on the trail so kids will know they’re making progress.
On this gorgeous weekend we met joggers, dog walkers, and other cyclists. So much sun and so many smiles. Everyone seemed so happy to be outside.
Even Cheddar knows spring is in the air. Look at that face!
