I think the route would be difficult even on a small dirt bike. The rocks and drops are much bigger than you might suspect. Would be easy to damage the crankcase if you didn’t have a crash plate on the engine.

Some boulders have personality!

I know intellectually that there are riders who could navigate that road on a 1200 GS, but in practice, I don’t see how I ever could do it. I was so jostled around on the scooter that I couldn’t see myself keeping it upright in some places. I suppose it just means more practice. But at my age, I think the opportunity has passed.

Those views do feed the soul!

And that view…nothing like a beautiful view for feeding the soul!

Thanks for the kind words Barry. I appreciate them.

The silver canister is a Kleen Kanteen water bottle. Use it a lot. Just fill it with tap water. Has saved me hundreds and hundreds of dollars by now not buying bottled water. And I still do buy bottled water.

They not longer make the exact one I have. But there are close alternatives.

I suppose with enough practice and experience a person will become comfortable and proficient with a bigger dual sport bike off road. I’ve seen a lot of videos of people navigating some pretty rough single trail courses on BMW R1200 GS Adventure bikes. But they are seen muscling those machines along on foot or pulling them out of mud — my back won’t tolerate that work anymore.

A little Yamaha XT225 would be something I can see myself having fun with. Could take me anywhere in Pennsylvania so I wouldn’t need more power. I’m slow…

Did a story on an ADV course, I was loaned a BMW 650, it was so heavy and cumbersome, I was fighting that bike the entire time. If I was going to off road I’d purchase a Honda CRF250 or a Yamaha XT due to it being more light weight and flickable. It is not about ginormous bikes for me.

SPOT is excellent. I’ve used one for years. Matter of fact I’m on my second. I’d recommend it over the more expensive Delorme, which failed me.

Up from the railbed to the top of the mountain on a bicycle — YIKES! Those days are far, far behind me. But you’re right about it being a beautiful area. It’s as lovely as it comes in Pennsylvania.