2012 Austin and Hill Country

by Anne Campbell, Diana Olsen, Dan McGuire

Oct 23-25 By train, planes, and automobiles, thirty one intrepid cyclists arrived from various points in North America for another of Warner Griswold’s well organized tours. Unlike the rest of the very flat Texas, the rolling hills of the midwest had enough to challenge all riding abilities. Bikes were assembled and tested out in the city and surrounding area. The Lady Bird Lake trails were perfect for getting the bike legs going. We enjoyed all that Austin had to offer including the music, barbecue, and local beer. This may be a bike trip that people gain weight on.

screenshot-www.cccts.org 2015-10-12 12-58-50On our first formal day, many of the group headed by car to San Antonio to check out the Alamo and river walk of that famous city. Despite thunder and lightning, Terry braved the downpour to obtain umbrellas for the group. Those who stayed in Austin braved the unseasonal cold front (12 degrees C) and did some optional bike routes. We have enjoyed the friendly Texans who voluntarily stopped to help us while we consulted maps and left us with a “Y’all take care out there, y’hear”. The tough guy award today had to go to Ron who braved the weather in sandals and bare legs.

Oct.27 And today we learned what the hills were all about in the Hill Country.

Oct.28 After a lovely stay In Austin, we moved to Marble Falls, one of the largest marble (what else) production areas in North America. After a few minor hiccups, everyone arrived safely at the lovely Holiday Inn.

Oct 29/30 Thank goodness for the Internet and G.P.S. that we are always able to locate the nearest Starbucks. It is amazing that a group of very fit cyclists can sniff out a cinnamon bun or a piece of pecan pie in any given town.

Everyone agreed today’s routes were very relaxing for exploring the back roads in the area. People broke into groups that fit their pace. Highlight: getting up and personal with some longhorn cattle. Very impressive! Cycling around LBJ Lake was a route that many members found enjoyable. We were thankful that the weather finally warmed up.

Halloween and a move day, this time about 83 km. to the charming town of Fredericksburg. There was a mixture of surfaces and terrain but the hills were short and not too steep. The sun was a mixed blessing. While we enjoyed the heat, the smell of the prolific road kill was unwelcome. Skunks, possums, raccoons, armadillos, rabbits, and many deer suffered the consequences of being slow. The lurking turkey vultures enjoyed an easy meal. We sure appreciated rounding the corner to see the “Yellow Rose of Texas” otherwise known as the Penske van to avail ourselves of ice cold pop and water. Upon arriving, much to the amazement of the hotel staff, riders hit the pool to ease their sore muscles. Even by Canadian standards the water was cold. After the routine of showering, laundry etc. many headed for the nightspots to dine and listen to another great band. The German influences could be found on the menus throughout the town.

We have all enjoyed the luxury of multiple days in one location and the opportunity to explore the areas of choice. Luckenbach was a favorite destination for many although Waylon and Willie were nowhere to be seen. The “local boys” on their Harleys in front of the famous post office/ general store provided a backdrop for photos. Back in town the famous Blue Bell ice cream was appreciated after a hot day.

Nov. 2 Another move day. This time it was to the smaller community of Blanco. So far we have not yet encountered any nasty rain or wind. Once again we were mostly on back roads with little traffic and the hills were not overwhelming.

screenshot-www.cccts.org 2015-10-12 13-04-52Nov. 3-5 Riders took the time to explore Blanco and the surrounding area. The town of approximately 1700 people is proud to have a single stop light. One of the highlights of this stop was the Knife and Tomahawk World Championships at the Buggy Barn Museum right across the street. Most of the group cycled up to the LBJ ranch on Sunday to soak up some history. The other days were spent on the side roads and along the nearby Blanco River.

Nov. 6 A lovely ride of 74 km. in the sunshine to San Marcos. It was a pleasure to ride on smooth surfaces accompanied for the last portion by many little butterflies. We did have one “double son of a b hill” of 18% that kept us humble. Our final hotel, The Embassy Suite was quite luxurious.

Nov.7 Many of the group biked to the charming and historic town of Gruene (pronounced “green”) for coffee. Thanks to Margaret for suggesting and plotting this route as well as several others. Although we did not partake, Gruene is known to have the oldest dance hall in Texas. As well, a large contingent hit the nearby outlet malls for one last gasp of bargains before heading back north to the land of ice and snow.

Nov. 8 One last move day back to Austin and the end of our journey. This final ride was mostly downhill. The start was particularly lovely through the old stately homes and University area. The two weeks seemed to go by awfully fast. A final goodbye dinner was bittersweet as we celebrated the tour and said goodbye. Thanks Warner. The opportunity to cycle the Hill Country of Texas was truly a memorable experience for all of us.