Pogwatigue Perambulations: Heinz NWR

I started my ride heading in direction I don't often take, south through streets of South Philadelphia. I try to avoid a lot of biking in the city. The streets are narrow and debris-ridden. It is also hard to get in a good rhythm with all the stopping that is required. But today it felt like a nice change of pace from my usual routes out of town. Crossing the drawbridge on Passayunk Avenue, one of the few exits from the area, was a bit nerve-wrecking, but other than that it was smooth sailing all the way to the Heinz Wildlife refuge in extreme southwest Philadelphia.

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When I set out, I didn't intend to ride through the refuge, but it turned about to be a good destination. The fall colors still pretty vibrant, if a little passed their peak. It was nice to get off-road, and enjoy some quite riding for a short while. I don't get much opportunity to do that around here.

When I left the refuge, I was as far from my apartment as I would get. I headed north, as true as the roads would allow, stopping in a small strip center my company owns. Once in Springfield, I started heading west, first along quite residential streets lined with houses all prepped for Halloween; then, I caught Garrett street, a minor artery that headed straight in to Philadelphia.

All in all it was a pretty easy ride without much climbing. I hoped for 40 miles, but ended up clocking just under 30. Depending on the weather I hope to get at least one, maybe two, more ride(s) in before the weather gets too cold and the days too short.

Statistics
Length: 29.3 miles
Ride Time: 2 hours 41 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 00 minute
Avg. Speed: 10.9 MPH
Max. Speed: 24.9 MPH
Avg. Cadence: 60 RPM
Cumulative Ascent: 850 ft.
Max. Elevation: 267 ft.