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The trail itself made for fantastic riding\u2014mostly flat, off-road, and well-maintained with a mix of smooth asphalt and hard-packed crushed limestone. Pedaling along the old canal towpaths offered quiet, tree-lined stretches and historic stone lock structures, making for a seamless and scenic trip east toward Rome.<\/span><\/p>\n A Spot in Erie Canal History<\/strong><\/p>\n Finishing our ride in Rome carried a special significance given how much time we spent along the water today. Rome is famous as the official birthplace of the Erie Canal, where construction first began on July 4, 1817. Because of its strategic location along the ancient Oneida Carry portage, the town played a central role in connecting the Atlantic coast to the Great Lakes and opening up trade across early America.<\/p>\n Warm Welcomes and Final Countdowns<\/strong><\/p>\n When we arrived in Rome, we received a fantastic, warm welcome from Trinity Church, who generously hosted our team. Having such incredible community support after a long day in the saddle means everything to us.<\/p>\n Hard to believe we are in the home stretch now! We\u2019re officially counting down to Ride\u00a0Day 56 next week, when we will complete this cross-country journey on August 8th in Portland, Maine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n