A Philadelphia Photo Bike Tour

A lot of you know how obsessed I am with taking pictures. I have another blog that I use sort of as a photo journal, where I try to post at least one photo a day in a way to chronicle my life. All that shooting means I take my cameras with me everywhere I go.

Bike riding is no exception. I always have my trusty little Canon Elph tucked into my seat pack (who needs to carry an inner tube anyway?) to try and capture all the new surroundings that I am discovering everyday. Today I headed out to Valley Forge on the Schuylkill River Trail (skoo-kul), with camera in tow, in hopes of getting some new shots.

After being inspired by Leana's bike shoot the other day, I decided I would take you guys on a little tour of the path that I bike all the time (and run sometimes too). It's very different from my old Miami surroundings. While I loved the sun and water of South Florida, I am truly loving all the trees and bike paths Philly has to offer.

We start out in Manayunk on the tow path. The path is made of compact dirt and gravel and runs along the Manayunk Canal towards the Schuylkill River.




We run through the woods a bit and when the canal connects with the river, there is a little waterfall. There are usually about 5 kids sitting out there smoking weed. Not that I know what it smells like...




Then at the end of the tow path right before you pic up the actual bike path, there is this scary old building. I have no idea what it is but the other side sits right on the train tracks. It's very shady and I usually get a little freaked out when I run past this alone. Hello Blair Witch!




Then it's up a little hill to to cross the Septa Tracks. On the tracks sits an old train station that I think someone lives in now. So weird.




Back on paved land.






This was a condominium complex that caught on fire about two months back when the new building next to it that was under construction went up in flames. It was a terrible fire that left over 400 people displaced. Most of the damage was done to the units behind this one.




I forgot what this weed is called that grows on the trees like this, but I always think it looks like zombies rising from the ground. I am starting to notice a very spooky theme here. Maybe it's because it was so overcast today...maybe because Halloween is so close...




GROUNDHOG!!!


An old knitting mill that is now a beer distribution center.


Oooh, Frosty treats AND bird watching!


This part is long and boring (that's what she said).


Here I am looking glamorous as usual and risking life and limb for a self-portrait for my blog. See how I care about you people?


I think I have to agree with this guy.


A private club that sits on the river.


Who knew?


I see the first signs of autumn!


Finally to Valley Forge!




These maniacs are everywhere!


Hehe...


So many old, abandoned buildings.


















BAMBI!!!




Then I rode back and had to do it fast to beat the rain. I made it home exhausted from my 35+ mile ride and only a little soaking wet and muddy.

Must. Get. Home.


Hope you enjoyed the tour. Be sure to check out the photo blog for more fun pics (now, mostly of Philly) and stay tuned for more tours. There are a ton of great parks and trails to show you.

Last but not least, I just want to say Happy Birthday to my little girl.


My puppy Zero turned THIRTEEN today! Not such a puppy anymore even though she still acts like one. Love you pooper-dogger!