The day started out sunny and just a bit cool as Ellen, Rosi, Joni, and I met for the DITR ride that Ellen had mapped out. We were going to see 3 covered bridges in Maryland, have lunch in Emmitsburg, and then see the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes at Mount St. Mary's University.

The first part of the trip was Rt. 234 to Rt. 66 West, then on to Rt. 15 North. Once we get out to Rt. 15, the countryside opens up to pretty scenery. Getting through Leesburg, though, is a pain because of heavy traffic.

Crossing into Maryland on the Point of Rocks Bridge, the view of the Potomac River is spectacular. From this point, we are very close to Harper's Ferry, WV. Riding along Rt. 15, the next large town is Frederick, where the traffic gets thick again.

Soon we are back in the country and Ellen takes us to the first bridge on the tour, Utica Bridge. There is no place to pull off the road, so we park close to the bridge, along with two lady bicyclists who were already there.

Ellen takes us to the next bridge by way of back roads. Loys Station covered bridge, which has a nice park next to it with a picnic area. It seems there is some kind of bicycle event going on, because there are many bicyclists stopping by.

The last covered bridge on the tour is Roddy Road Covered Bridge. It is also the smallest, measuring only 40 ft. in length. There is a large area near the bridge to park, along with picnic areas. We meet more bicyclists here, too. The weather is perfect for a ride, with or without an engine!

LUNCH! We stop at a place called "Ott House" on Main St. in downtown Emmitsburg. It's a quaint-looking local hangout that has good food at reasonable prices.

After lunch we head out back on Rt. 15 to Mount St. Mary's University to see the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes. It is one of the oldest American replicas of the French shrine, about 20 years after the apparitions at Lourdes (1875).

It is very peaceful up here, with a wonderful view of the valley below. Many people come here for the spring water that flows into the grotto.

But now it's time to head for home. We still have quite a ways to go. Back onto 15 South. The scenery is great, roads good (until we get into Prince William with road construction). It must have been about 200 miles round trip. Ellen planned a great ride! Hope to see you for the next one!

by Rosie