Robin Hood was a myth of course but the riders of the ABCE Robin Hood Festival elevated the story of Robin Hood to absolute fact; placing the Robin Hood bicycle into the stuff of legends. Many Robin Hood bicycles were in attendance and all proved their worth by traversing hill and dale, fen and field. Without question a worthy steed, this, and a prize possession to those lucky enough to find one.
Departing from Merlin’s Rest, the 30-some-odd Riders of the Realm easily glided to the Vento Bridge overlook for a quick break but it wasn’t long and we were off to Elevenses at the Freewheel Co-Op. A perfect combination of cycle store, bakery and tea vendor, we lingered while the commoners looked in wonder at the numerous and lovely bicycles.
Off we went down the Greenway, past Lake Calhoun and Harriet and on to the Minnehaha Creek trail. A busy day indeed as the paths were filled with cyclists and walkers but as long as we kept a modest pace there was no delay to speak of. Lunch was the order of the day and soon we arrived at 50th and Chicago for a variety of options.
We needed to move on and the plan was to cross the Mississippi at Fort Snelling but reports said the path was inaccessible. A quick u-turn put us back on track for the Ford Bridge and we made an easy glide down the St Paul side of the river to the beautiful overlook across from Fort Snelling. The next stop was the St Paul City House; a new place that was a flour mill and barge/rail loading facility on the waterfront. This is a lovely new spot that includes a restaurant, river views and historical significance.
We did not want to leave but as tourists, we must. The next obstacle was Ramsay Hill; a formidable barrier in the landscape that intimidated some to seek a rout with an easier grade. No matter; a long climb or easy walk was the choice and all the breathless Nutters regrouped at the top. On we went; wandering the lovely houses of St Paul’s Summit Avenue area as the anticipation of our return to Merlin’s Rest set in.
Whether you see yourself as Robin Hood himself, Maid Marian or Friar Tuck, your choice of Steed for riding the forests of Nottingham needs to be stout, reliable and smart. City streets, quiet paths or country lanes should pose neither limits nor problems. Without question, your bicycle of choice can only be the ‘umble Robin Hood 3-speed.
Date(s): September 15-17, 2017. Album by STO. Photos by STO. 1 - 61 of 61 Total. 2839 Visits.