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User Content => Road Trips => Topic started by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 06:39:01 PM

Title: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 06:39:01 PM
Hey Everyone,

    So I posted about this in the 2021 Road Trip Plans thread, but I thought I might split it out just so I could get some input from specific members who know the area better than I.  I think I have most of the route planned, but would like some suggestions of places to eat, places to stop, local beers, and some routing advice as well.  I'll go day by day of how I have it now.

Day 1:
Day 2:
Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 06:39:18 PM
Day 3:
Day 4:
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 06:39:34 PM
Day 5:
Day 6:
Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 06:40:19 PM
Day 7:
Day 8:
Overall Stats as Planned:
Total Miles: 4,388
Total New Miles For me: ~3800?
Total New Counties: 31 in the U.S.(Up to 1,432 or 45.56%), 48 in Canada (Up to 130 or 17.8%)
New States/Provinces with All Counties Clinched: NH, ME, RI, PEI, and NS (Up to 5 States and 2 Provinces)
2dis Clinched: I-91, I-93, I-95 (3 total, up to 28)
3dis Clinched: I-495 (DE), I-384 (CT), I-291 (CT), I-391 (MA), I-395 (ME), I-293 (NH), I-195 (ME), I-495 (ME), I-295 (ME), I-295 (MA/RI), I-278 (NY/NJ) (11 total up to 103)
New States with All Interstate Mileage Clinched: DE, VT, NH, ME, RI (up to 17 total)
Minimum Number of New Routes Driven: 189

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: hotdogPi on September 15, 2021, 06:48:28 PM
1. You're at 3,549 characters. The limit is 25,000.
2. I'll meet you if you want and you are anywhere in the Lowell/Lawrence/Haverhill area.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 06:57:54 PM
If you haven't done so already, I would study the rules related to COVID and entry into both Canada and the US by land; it's not something you want to be caught unprepared for.

As I recall, you also have to let the rental car agency know that you plan to take the car into Canada; again, I might be telling you info you already know.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 07:01:40 PM
Quote from: 1 on September 15, 2021, 06:48:28 PM
1. You're at 3,549 characters. The limit is 25,000.
2. I'll meet you if you want and you are anywhere in the Lowell/Lawrence/Haverhill area.

1) I couldn't remember what it was, but it's also good for me to split up since I don't want to type a whole bunch and lose it somehow.
2) I actually drive through your area twice, so I might have some time for sure.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 07:07:27 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 06:57:54 PM
If you haven't done so already, I would study the rules related to COVID and entry into both Canada and the US by land; it's not something you want to be caught unprepared for.

As I recall, you also have to let the rental car agency know that you plan to take the car into Canada; again, I might be telling you info you already know.

Re: Covid, I'm long ago vaccinated with Moderna and I can't do the ArriveCan until 72 hours beforehand.  I also can't make an appointment for a PCR test here in Colorado until the week of, so I'm going to try and get the earliest test that I can on Thursday for my Saturday night Canadian arrival (needs to be within 72 hours).  The only province that currently has different Covid requirements is PEI, and I received my PEI Pass via email this morning, so I should be good to go there.  Quebec never really had any separate requirements and both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have let theirs lapse.

Re: rental car, I booked with Budget that has unlimited miles and no restrictions on Canadian entry.  I'm going to call them and register the fact that I'm taking it across the border, and apparently they provide me with a non-resident insurance card at the counter.  I am going to verify that my rental insurance that I get through my Chase Sapphire Preferred card covers Canadian rentals as well, just in case.

I do appreciate the heads up in case I hadn't thought of something.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: oscar on September 15, 2021, 07:51:30 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 06:57:54 PM
If you haven't done so already, I would study the rules related to COVID and entry into both Canada and the US by land; it's not something you want to be caught unprepared for.

One question I have, for my possible Canada trip, which I've had trouble nailing down in my preliminary research: do U.S. citizens need a PCR or other test done in Canada, just before a land crossing back into the U.S.? That would surprise me, but I'd rather not be surprised.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 08:37:17 PM
Quote from: oscar on September 15, 2021, 07:51:30 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 06:57:54 PM
If you haven't done so already, I would study the rules related to COVID and entry into both Canada and the US by land; it's not something you want to be caught unprepared for.

One question I have, for my possible Canada trip, which I've had trouble nailing down in my preliminary research: do U.S. citizens need a PCR or other test done in Canada, just before a land crossing back into the U.S.? That would surprise me, but I'd rather not be surprised.

Nothing that I've seen.  I would highly doubt it, but I'll be taking a look there too.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: webny99 on September 15, 2021, 08:40:07 PM
Canadians definitely have to have a Covid test prior to entering the US, but I'm not sure about US citizens.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 09:04:57 PM
Quote from: oscar on September 15, 2021, 07:51:30 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 15, 2021, 06:57:54 PM
If you haven't done so already, I would study the rules related to COVID and entry into both Canada and the US by land; it's not something you want to be caught unprepared for.

One question I have, for my possible Canada trip, which I've had trouble nailing down in my preliminary research: do U.S. citizens need a PCR or other test done in Canada, just before a land crossing back into the U.S.? That would surprise me, but I'd rather not be surprised.
All I can find online are the rules for re-entering the US by air, probably because the land border with Canada is still closed to non-US citizens.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 15, 2021, 09:06:20 PM
According to the state department website, the test requirement doesn't apply to land crossing.

(https://i.postimg.cc/Kvr9P6fT/Covid-Reentry.png)

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: abefroman329 on September 16, 2021, 10:02:20 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 15, 2021, 07:07:27 PMI am going to verify that my rental insurance that I get through my Chase Sapphire Preferred card covers Canadian rentals as well, just in case.

It should, and if they use the same insurance company that Barclays uses, they're fantastic.  I've had two instances where I rented from Avis in the UK and Avis charged me for damage to the car, and the insurance company paid the claims with no issues - and one claim (for a flat tire) wasn't even supposed to be covered under the policy!
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 16, 2021, 12:17:44 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 16, 2021, 10:02:20 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 15, 2021, 07:07:27 PMI am going to verify that my rental insurance that I get through my Chase Sapphire Preferred card covers Canadian rentals as well, just in case.

It should, and if they use the same insurance company that Barclays uses, they're fantastic.  I've had two instances where I rented from Avis in the UK and Avis charged me for damage to the car, and the insurance company paid the claims with no issues - and one claim (for a flat tire) wasn't even supposed to be covered under the policy!

I don't see the exact company that Chase uses, but their website does confirm that it's valid abroad.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21
Post by: abefroman329 on September 16, 2021, 01:09:23 PM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 16, 2021, 12:17:44 PM
Quote from: abefroman329 on September 16, 2021, 10:02:20 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 15, 2021, 07:07:27 PMI am going to verify that my rental insurance that I get through my Chase Sapphire Preferred card covers Canadian rentals as well, just in case.

It should, and if they use the same insurance company that Barclays uses, they're fantastic.  I've had two instances where I rented from Avis in the UK and Avis charged me for damage to the car, and the insurance company paid the claims with no issues - and one claim (for a flat tire) wasn't even supposed to be covered under the policy!

I don't see the exact company that Chase uses, but their website does confirm that it's valid abroad.

Chris

Here it is (I also have a Chase Sapphire Preferred card):

https://www.eclaimsline.com/?chasewebview=false
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 02:38:15 PM
To enter Nova Scotia from New Brunswick you now have to complete a 'Safe Check-In Form'

https://travel-declaration.novascotia.ca/en

Effective Sept 22.....you also have to pre-register to enter New Brunswick again.

https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/corporate/promo/covid-19/travel.html

And I would also keep an eye on the PEI Gov Site as there has been an increase in cases the past few days.

>>>>>>

You asked about viewing the Fundy Tides. This route might be an option.....

Burntcoat Head along Minas Basin

https://goo.gl/maps/RkYT22YGpAmmrTAP8

Best view of the Halifax Skyline is from the Halifax Transit Harbour Ferries.

On Day 5.....Leaving from Ingonish, doing the Skyline Trail, taking in the Cabot Trail sights with all the lookoffs...... and then being in Caribou for the 1pm ferry is going to be a very, very tight schedule.

If you travel from Nova Scotia to PEI on the ferry with a car and no reservation.....the ride over is free.
You only pay when leaving the Island.....either on the ferry or bridge. The 1pm crossing on a Thursday shouldn't be too busy but get there as early as possible (but with your schedule that might be difficult!)

As I continue to read through this...I'll have a few more tips!




Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 16, 2021, 02:49:08 PM
Thanks for the input!

Quote from: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 02:38:15 PM
To enter Nova Scotia from New Brunswick you now have to complete a 'Safe Check-In Form'

https://travel-declaration.novascotia.ca/en

I just clicked through that link yesterday, and when I said that I was coming from outside Canada, it said that I didn't need to fill out the Safe Check-In Form because the ArriveCan form was sufficient.

(https://i.postimg.cc/x8GFpZKX/Nova-Scotia.png)

Quote from: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 02:38:15 PMEffective Sept 22.....you also have to pre-register to enter New Brunswick again.

https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/corporate/promo/covid-19/travel.html

And I would also keep an eye on the PEI Gov Site as there has been an increase in cases the past few days.

Good to know!  Thank you.

Quote from: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 02:38:15 PM
You asked about viewing the Fundy Tides. This route might be an option.....

Burntcoat Head along Minas Basin

https://goo.gl/maps/RkYT22YGpAmmrTAP8

Best view of the Halifax Skyline is from the Halifax Transit Harbour Ferries.

Awesome.  I'll check these out.

Quote from: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 02:38:15 PMOn Day 5.....Leaving from Ingonish, doing the Skyline Trail, taking in the Cabot Trail sights with all the lookoffs...... and then being in Caribou for the 1pm ferry is going to be a very, very tight schedule.

Yeah.  I was planning on leaving around 6:45 or so.  You think without too many stops other than for quick photos (and I'm also a very quick hiker, especially at sea level) that I'll be okay?

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 03:01:40 PM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 16, 2021, 02:49:08 PM
Yeah.  I was planning on leaving around 6:45 or so.  You think without too many stops other than for quick photos (and I'm also a very quick hiker, especially at sea level) that I'll be okay?

Chris

Google Maps is showing 4hr/21min from Ingonish to Caribou then add in at least 1 1/2 hrs for the Skyline Trail...and you'd want to be in Caribou by 12:30 for the 1pm ferry


https://goo.gl/maps/jDJwunum2goqaWvz9
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 16, 2021, 03:13:27 PM
Quote from: ghYHZ on September 16, 2021, 03:01:40 PM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 16, 2021, 02:49:08 PM
Yeah.  I was planning on leaving around 6:45 or so.  You think without too many stops other than for quick photos (and I'm also a very quick hiker, especially at sea level) that I'll be okay?

Chris

Google Maps is showing 4hr/21min from Ingonish to Caribou then add in at least 1 1/2 hrs for the Skyline Trail...and you'd want to be in Caribou by 12:30 for the 1pm ferry


https://goo.gl/maps/jDJwunum2goqaWvz9

Yeah, now that I look at it, it's going to be 5 miles RT.  Only 500' of gain though.  I can probably get it done in a little over an hour or so, especially since I normally like to jog down when I'm doing easier hikes.  If worse comes to worse, I can take a later ferry and/or cross at the bridge.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: 1995hoo on September 17, 2021, 06:30:39 PM
If you like Scotch whisky, I highly recommend checking out the Glenora Distillery (https://www.glenoradistillery.com/) in Glenville, Nova Scotia, although it's on the Ceilidh Trail and so isn't really along your route. Well worth a stop if you like that style of whisky, though–they make an outstanding Canadian single malt. (The inn and restaurant are very nice as well.)

In terms of other places to eat: Along the Cabot Trail, the Harbour Restaurant and Bar in Cheticamp (the restaurant with the small lighthouse out back up the block from Wabo's) had excellent fish and chips, some of the best I've ever had. In Shelburne, the Charlotte Lane Cafe was outstanding. In Yarmouth, Rudder's is very good for fried seafood and beer. In Digby, eat scallops–pick a seafood restaurant and it's hard to go wrong. In Halifax, Cafe Chianti was absolutely fabulous; it's a bit of a fancy place, though you certainly don't need to get all duded up to go there, but it was really top-notch, and I don't hold it against them that it's apparently Sidney Crosby's favorite restaurant in Halifax.

Remember you need to stop and get a national park pass when you enter Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Buy it for the number of days you plan to be within park limits. It sounds like you won't need to add a buffer day.

One nice hike you could make near Ingonish Beach begins alongside the Keltic Lodge. Drive up the Keltic In Road and go past the lodge on your left until the road ends and park in the lot there. The hike goes out to Middle Head, a clifftop location overlooking the ocean and Cape Smokey to the south. Nice walk, not strenuous. I don't remember the distance, but my timing wouldn't be a valid comparison because Ms1995hoo was with me and she walks slower than I do.

The Alexander Keith's brewery tour in Halifax was less interesting than I expected. Not bad, but I expected something more focused on beer, whereas they focused more on their history.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 18, 2021, 02:50:43 AM
Appreciate the suggestions!

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: 1995hoo on September 18, 2021, 11:37:28 AM
Google Maps shows the Middle Head hike as 1.7 km each way, so very short. I was able to bring up "Street View" at the end of the trail using the Google Maps app on my iPad, so I assume you could get a look if you want to see whether it'd be of any interest to you.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 19, 2021, 09:22:11 AM
If the aim is to just clinch the Cabot Trail and get a quick hike in on the Skyline.....you should be OK but most take two days to 'do the Tail' with the many look-offs. Also keep in mind that in mid October sunrise in Ingonish is 7:15am and sunset is 6:15pm (these are only 5mins off your times in Colorado!) Leaving from Ingonish at 6:45am as you say...you will have daylight when you reach the Skyline Trail but the sun IMHO will be in the wrong direction! Personally I like the Sunset view over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. (I think you've seen my recent post here:)

https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=29888.0

So here's a suggestion. Do the Cabot Trail in reverse to what you have planned. Stay in Cheticamp instead of Ingonish and do the Skyline in the late afternoon......then the next morning head for Ingonish and onto Caribou. Get an early start and you still might not get the 1pm ferry but you will the next. NFL hasn't posted the schedule after Oct. 11th but I'm guessing there will be one in the late afternoon like other years. The drive to the ferry from Cheticamp is about an hour longer in the morning but you're not doing the Skyline hike.

Keep in mind there's construction on the Cabot Trail where they are stabilizing rock faces with single lane traffic controlled by lights.

Also lots of construction in the 40km between Sutherlands River and Antigonish on the twinning of THC104. They plan to have 2-way traffic on the new lanes this fall while they reconstruct the existing lanes and bridges...then be fully opened in 2023. So lots of delays with lane shifts, paving and bridge work. Here's the web page with potential delays posted. Might be good to review closer to your travel date if rushing for the ferry!

https://hwy104twinning.ca

Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 20, 2021, 05:42:28 AM

As I posted above....Burntcoat Head is a great place to view the Fundy Tides......actually Minas Basin/Cobequid Bay at that point.

This web page has a link to tide times that vary by date:

www.burntcoatheadpark.ca/tides/


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51495550073_69eeb19b20_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2msu9XB)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51495330091_7c40039b52_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mst2yP)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51496251845_884b45d7c7_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2msxKz8)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51496251675_6fb257cd4f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2msxKwc)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51495329596_5f5cfa2a96_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mst2qh)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51496040699_151b03597d_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mswENF)


Back in the '70s a Tidal Power Dam was proposed spanning between Burntcoat Head and Economy Point....... 111Km away but only 5km across. It probably would have included a road but never got beyond the talking stage.


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51496251980_bd5eb80c3b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2msxKBs)


After entering Nova Scotia at Amherst you could follow Trunk 2 through Parrsboro and Economy Point on the opposite side from Burntcoat instead of the TCH104 Cobequid Pass Toll Highway. (....and that toll might even be gone shortly. We just had a change in Provincial Government and one of their 'promises' if elected was removal of the tolls)   

And if you are going to Burntcoat Head.....you'll probably exit NS102 at Brookfield and cross the Gosse Bridge at South Maitland. Here you can see the incoming tide arrive as a 'Tidal Boar'...... a fast moving wave viewed from the a platform at the old Railway Bridge.


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51494534222_e4d9196d25_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2msoWYW)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51496040314_322530170a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mswEG3)



Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: 1995hoo on September 20, 2021, 07:36:36 AM
^^^^^

Not too far west of Burntcoat Head, you can find the Walton Harbour Lighthouse, which allows you to go inside and climb to the top. (Search Google Maps for the name and remember the "u" in "Harbour.")
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 20, 2021, 11:01:16 AM
Great suggestions, especially about doing the Cabot Trail in reverse.  I just reserved a room in Cheticamp.  I'll work on updating my route in my spreadsheet and I'll update my OPs accordingly.  Thank you both very much. Now I just need someone to pipe in about my Maine/New Hampshire portion and I think I'll be finalized.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: webny99 on September 20, 2021, 11:30:36 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 15, 2021, 06:39:34 PM
Day 6:

    ...
    • TCH2->NE95->I-95 down to Bangor with a small side trip to get Piscataquis County, ME
    • New Counties:

      • Prince, PE
      • Aroostook, ME
      • Penobscot, ME
      • Piscataquis, ME
    • Highways Clinched:

      • Again, likely a bunch of PE routes
      • TCH-1 (PE)
      • NB95
    • Other clinches of note:

      • All counties in PE
      • All TCH routes in the Maritimes
    • Questions: I don't think I have any questions here other than the typical restaurant/brewery suggestions.
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 15, 2021, 06:40:19 PM
Day 7:

  • Objectives for the day:

    • Clinch I-395 in Maine.
    • Clinch all counties in Maine and New Hampshire that I'm missing.
    • Clinch I-93.
    • Clinch I-195 in Maine.
    • See nice scenery.
  • Leaving Bangor heading out on I-395->US1A->ME46->ME9 to clinch Hancock and Washington Counties.
  • Turn back around on ME9 and then find a way to:

    • Clinch I-95 between Bangor and Augusta
    • Travel through Knox and Lincoln Counties before heading back NW
    • Travel up to St. Johnsbury traveling through Franklin and Oxford Counties in Maine and Carroll and Coos Counties in New Hampshire
  • From St. Johnsbury, take I-93 all the way to its junction with I-95, completing the clinch (also taking I-293 in Manchester).
  • Double back on I-93 to head back up to Portland getting some mileage on I-495.
  • Travel I-195 when passing through Saco/Biddeford, then back up I-95 to Portland for the night
  • New Counties:

    • Hancock, ME
    • Washington, ME
    • Waldo, ME
    • Knox, ME
    • Lincoln, ME
    • Kennebec, ME
    • Somerset, ME
    • Franklin, ME
    • Oxford, ME
    • Carroll, NH
    • Coos, NH
    • Essex, VT
    • Belknap, NH
    • Hillsborough, NH
    • Cumberland, ME
  • Highways Clinched:

    • I-395 (ME)
    • I-93
    • I-293
    • I-93
    • I-195 (ME)
    • Likely some Maine/New Hampshire state highways
  • Other clinches of note:

    • All counties in NH
    • All interstates in NH
  • Questions: This is the day I need the most help with guidance.  Those that have been in the area, does anyone have a route that I should follow?  From Beddington, I'm currently thinking it's probably best to return on ME9 to Bangor and then head down to Augusta or Gardiner to get the portion of I-95 that I need to clinch.  Then head east on ME126 to get both of the counties I need, ME220 North to ME17 to take all the way up to its end near Rangeley.  Then take ME16->NH16->NH26->US3->US2 to St. Johnsbury.  I'll need a slight diversion to grab Carroll County, NH while I'm heading down towards Manchester/Boston this way. I'd like a reasonably efficient path (given my convoluted constraints) that is also scenic.  I've not spent much time in the Whites, so would like to drive some pretty stretches there.  Input on this section would be greatly appreciated.
Day 8:

  • The night before when getting dinner somewhere in downtown Portland, I'll knock off a chunk of I-295 and I'll take it all the way up to the Falmouth Spur (I-495)
  • Take I-95->I-495->I-295 up to Gardiner to clinch I-295.
  • Double back on I-95 to get the rest of its stretch in Maine.
  • Continue on I-95 all the way down to Providence's I-295
[/list]

Quote from: jayhawkco on September 20, 2021, 11:01:16 AM
Now I just need someone to pipe in about my Maine/New Hampshire portion and I think I'll be finalized.

I'm not sure I totally follow your proposed routing, but from what I can tell it seems pretty circular, starting in Maine, then heading to New Hampshire, then circling back around to Portland ME. But I suppose that's unavoidable if you want to clinch both I-93 and I-95.

I'm probably not going to be a ton of help here, as I've only been to Maine once. But a few thoughts...

Bangor isn't far from Acadia NP if you wanted to make the detour over there - a great park, but also at least one full day if not more to see the highlights. I will also note that US 1 along the Maine coast is interesting and would be beautiful this time of year. Would also recommend taking the Casco Bay Bridge over to South Portland if you have time - Portland Head Light is cool, and we stumbled upon a great waterfront restaurant (name escaping me at the moment...) with great views of the bridge and the city of Portland.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 20, 2021, 11:47:11 AM
Quote from: webny99 on September 20, 2021, 11:30:36 AM
I'm not sure I totally follow your proposed routing, but from what I can tell it seems pretty circular, starting in Maine, then heading to New Hampshire, then circling back around to Portland ME. But I suppose that's unavoidable if you want to clinch both I-93 and I-95.

I'm probably not going to be a ton of help here, as I've only been to Maine once. But a few thoughts...

Bangor isn't far from Acadia NP if you wanted to make the detour over there - a great park, but also at least one full day if not more to see the highlights. I will also note that US 1 along the Maine coast is interesting and would be beautiful this time of year. Would also recommend taking the Casco Bay Bridge over to South Portland if you have time - Portland Head Light is cool, and we stumbled upon a great waterfront restaurant (name escaping me at the moment...) with great views of the bridge and the city of Portland.

Yeah, it's definitely circular.  I got some great hotel rates locked in a long time ago in Bangor and Portland, so unless I want to drop $200 extra per night to stay in different places, those kinda need to be the beginning and end of the day.  I had thought about just sticking in Maine for that day of the trip, but I wanted to try to get all of the Northern New England interstates knocked out, and I won't have time on my last day to go from Portland to Philly if I venture that far off route.  I wish I had time for Acadia, but alas that will have to wait for another trip.  I think I had heard that the reservations are full for the main part of the park (not to be confused with the Maine part of the park) for quite some time anyway.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 20, 2021, 12:31:07 PM
Quote from: ghYHZ on September 20, 2021, 05:42:28 AM

As I posted above....Burntcoat Head is a great place to view the Fundy Tides......actually Minas Basin/Cobequid Bay at that point.

This web page has a link to tide times that vary by date:

www.burntcoatheadpark.ca/tides/

I loved this for an idea, but it doesn't look like the timing will work sadly.

If I visited on the day I'm driving all the way from Quebec to Halifax, I'd be in the area around... high tide.

If I made a side trip on the day I'm going around southern Nova Scotia on the way from Halifax to Lunenburg, I'd be in the area around... high tide.

If I visited on the way up to Cape Breton, I'd be in the are around... high tide.

(I am trying to not take off full days since I work remotely and planned on doing 1/2 to 3/4 workdays from the hotel before going on my adventures.  And the time sensitive things I have to do will be in the morning, so I couldn't leave early and then work later.)

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: froggie on September 20, 2021, 08:42:54 PM
Responding late, but regarding your Day 7:

There is no easy way to get Carroll County, NH from I-93.  A lot of slow road to get over and back.  What I would suggest instead, based on your initial route, is take ME 17 to Jay (but not beyond), then angle yourself southwest to Fryeburg to pick up US 302.  US 302 will get you both Carroll and Coos Counties in NH, plus it goes through Crawford Notch and has a GREAT view of the Mount Washington Hotel and the mountain itself.

It would be easier to nab Essex County, VT via an "out and back" than it would be Carroll County.  Or, from Twin Mountain, take US 3 north from US 302 to Whitefield, take NH 142 to NH 135 north(east), cross the river at the Mt. Orne Covered Bridge, then pick up US 2 in Lunenburg to get Essex County.

Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 21, 2021, 09:48:00 AM
Quote from: froggie on September 20, 2021, 08:42:54 PM
Responding late, but regarding your Day 7:

There is no easy way to get Carroll County, NH from I-93.  A lot of slow road to get over and back.  What I would suggest instead, based on your initial route, is take ME 17 to Jay (but not beyond), then angle yourself southwest to Fryeburg to pick up US 302.  US 302 will get you both Carroll and Coos Counties in NH, plus it goes through Crawford Notch and has a GREAT view of the Mount Washington Hotel and the mountain itself.

It would be easier to nab Essex County, VT via an "out and back" than it would be Carroll County.  Or, from Twin Mountain, take US 3 north from US 302 to Whitefield, take NH 142 to NH 135 north(east), cross the river at the Mt. Orne Covered Bridge, then pick up US 2 in Lunenburg to get Essex County.

Thanks froggie.  I'll take a look at that.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 21, 2021, 12:44:05 PM
Just registered for both of my New Brunswick entries.  Kind of a clunky system having to fill out a .pdf with data and then email it instead of having it just web based, but it is what it is I guess.  Hopefully Nova Scotia and Quebec don't add any requirements for me, but I'll keep checking a couple times a week so I'm not surprised.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: 02 Park Ave on September 21, 2021, 01:59:35 PM
The average speed on I-95 from approaching the George Washington Bridge and then across The Bronx could be 20 mph or lower.  I-95 in Connecticut can be a slow drag also.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 21, 2021, 02:34:25 PM
Quote from: 02 Park Ave on September 21, 2021, 01:59:35 PM
The average speed on I-95 from approaching the George Washington Bridge and then across The Bronx could be 20 mph or lower.  I-95 in Connecticut can be a slow drag also.

Gross.  I guess I'll just be getting in late that night.  Fortunately my flight from Denver to Philly I'll be able to get some sleep likely.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: paulthemapguy on September 22, 2021, 04:37:28 PM
At the end of September 2019, I did a very similar loop around the Maritimes, where I looped around into Nova Scotia, and passed through PEI on the way home.  We did a day in Halifax and a day on the Cabot Trail, anchored in Pictou County for our accommodation both days. Pictou County pizza was very strange and I didn't like it; the sauce is orange-brown like gravy (we stayed and ate said pizza in Stellarton).  On the way out there, we stopped at Hopewell Rocks near Moncton, NB to see the wild tides of the Bay of Fundy.  Keep in mind that the time between low tide and high tide will be many hours, so seeing the full variation takes some time.  We saw probably 25 feet's worth of the change in height between 8:30am and 12:30 pm.  The nice thing about Hopewell Rocks is that they post their tide tables on their website (https://www.thehopewellrocks.ca/library/uploads/Tide_Table_October_2021_1.pdf) so you can plan your day effectively.  Unfortunately, they don't operate beyond October 11th.

We also stopped at Acadia National Park on the way home for two days; if you don't have much time to see the park, you can at least drive the one-way circular park road and stop at some scenic vistas and the sand beach (a rarity in Maine!).  Cadillac Mountain, perhaps the foremost mountain in the park, is a mountain you can drive to the top of and look around (again nice because it saves time).

There's a store called Maps & More at the waterfront in downtown Halifax that may be of great interest to users on this forum: https://goo.gl/maps/yy6gEovi3gdjaKL99
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 23, 2021, 02:03:57 PM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 20, 2021, 11:01:16 AM
Great suggestions, especially about doing the Cabot Trail in reverse.  I just reserved a room in Cheticamp....... think I'll be finalized.

Chris

I can't add much to @1995hoo suggestion of the Harbour Restaurant and Bar while you're in Cheticamp. Just try one of the fine beers from Big Spruce!......

https://www.bigspruce.ca

Cheticamp is an Acadian (French) community (cousins to the Cajuns)  In contrast to the Scottish culture in Ingonish on the other end of the Cabot Trail.

This time of October...any other year would be Celtic-Colours with great Scotish, Acadian and First Nations entertainment. This year it's mostly virtual.... 

https://celtic-colours.com
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 24, 2021, 10:30:25 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 21, 2021, 12:44:05 PM
Just registered for both of my New Brunswick entries.  Kind of a clunky system having to fill out a .pdf with data and then email it instead of having it just web based, but it is what it is I guess.  Hopefully Nova Scotia and Quebec don't add any requirements for me, but I'll keep checking a couple times a week so I'm not surprised.

Chris

Still haven't heard back on this, and then going to the website they basically have an admission that their system doesn't work, so having a copy of the sent email (along with vaccination) is enough to get me in.  Knew it was clunky.

Anyway, started to make a list of stops for lunch/dinner based on my different days.

Day 1: Basically hustling all the way up to Drummondville and probably won't get in until 10:30 or 11:00, so might just have to be a fast food day, sadly
Day 2: Claudine's Eatery in Fredericton for lunch and Battery Park Beer Bar and Eatery in Dartmouth for Dinner
Day 3: Mishoo's Take out in Sambro for lunch and The Crow's Nest in Digby for early dinner, Lightship Brewing in Lunenburg for a nightcap
Day 4: The Knot Pub in Lunenburg for lunch and the Harbour Restaurant in Cheticamp for dinner
Day 5: Probably a fast food lunch just to try and catch the 1:00 ferry and then Claddagh Oyster House in Charlottetown for dinner
Day 6: Cinta Ria Malaysian Fusion in Moncton for lunch and Woodman's Bar and Grill in Orono for dinner
Day 7: 302 West Smokehouse and Tavern in Fryeburg for lunch and Mash Tun in Portland for dinner
Day 8: Getting my hustle on back to Philly, so probably another fast food kind of day.  Maybe a cheesesteak in the airport.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: 1995hoo on September 24, 2021, 12:25:25 PM
I don't remember where we ate in Lunenburg. I think it was the Old Fish Factory because I think we were right by the water. I do remember we stayed at the Lunenburg Inn, which is a bed and breakfast and thus is probably not the type of place you're interested in. The owners were very nice and their website says they still own it.
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 24, 2021, 12:31:27 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on September 24, 2021, 12:25:25 PM
I don't remember where we ate in Lunenburg. I think it was the Old Fish Factory because I think we were right by the water. I do remember we stayed at the Lunenburg Inn, which is a bed and breakfast and thus is probably not the type of place you're interested in. The owners were very nice and their website says they still own it.

I have reservations at the Brigantine Inn and Suites there.  Looks nice enough.

If I can leave when I think I can (with work obligations handled), then I'll probably get to Lunenburg around 7:30 or so.  I really want to get scallops in Digby for dinner, so I'll just have time for a beer in Lunenburg that night.

I also just bought a DC/AC cigarette lighter power converter so that I can have my laptop powered up while still being charged so I might be able to leave earlier in the day than I currently have planned.  I can pull over if something important needs to be addressed during using my cell phone as a hotspot.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on September 29, 2021, 10:50:16 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 21, 2021, 12:44:05 PM
Just registered for both of my New Brunswick entries.  Kind of a clunky system having to fill out a .pdf with data and then email it instead of having it just web based, but it is what it is I guess.  Hopefully Nova Scotia and Quebec don't add any requirements for me, but I'll keep checking a couple times a week so I'm not surprised.

Chris

Although the Maritimes and Newfoundland are in much better shape than some parts of the country...there has been a recent spike in cases here as well. The 'Atlantic Bubble' has essentially ended with new provincial restrictions being implemented fast so things don't get out of control here.

PEI's new restrictions announced yesterday:

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-covid-pandemic-briefing-september-28-1.6191917

And keep a daily watch on New Brunswick and Nova Scotia before you arrive.

Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on September 29, 2021, 12:05:56 PM
Quote from: ghYHZ on September 29, 2021, 10:50:16 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on September 21, 2021, 12:44:05 PM
Just registered for both of my New Brunswick entries.  Kind of a clunky system having to fill out a .pdf with data and then email it instead of having it just web based, but it is what it is I guess.  Hopefully Nova Scotia and Quebec don't add any requirements for me, but I'll keep checking a couple times a week so I'm not surprised.

Chris

Although the Maritimes and Newfoundland are in much better shape than some parts of the country...there has been a recent spike in cases here as well. The 'Atlantic Bubble' has essentially ended with new provincial restrictions being implemented fast so things don't get out of control here.

PEI's new restrictions announced yesterday:

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-covid-pandemic-briefing-september-28-1.6191917

And keep a daily watch on New Brunswick and Nova Scotia before you arrive.

Awesome.  Thanks for the heads up.  The nice thing is that everything I booked is refundable if I need to cancel last minute.  I'll keep eyes out for news.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 01, 2021, 10:04:46 AM
Still nothing other than ArriveCAN for Quebec.

New Brunswick finally got their online registration working, so I got that completed and approved within five minutes.

PEIPass had already been received, but looks like I'll be getting tested at the ferry.  No big deal there.

Nova Scotia still has their Safe Check-In saying that ArriveCAN is all I need for Nova Scotian entry.

Got my PCR Covid test scheduled for ~60 hours before I arrive in Canada.  Hopefully that's plenty of time to get results back.

I might get a second test from a different place just so that I have multiple options.  The one I signed up for was the only one that takes reservations any time other than the day before.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 01, 2021, 11:11:31 AM
Looks like they changed ferry times on me, so now it looks like I'll take a full day off on my Cape Breton day, leave early from Lunenburg, drive up to Sydney and then go around to still to the Skyline hike near sunset and still stay in Cheticamp.  That way I can catch the 11:15 ferry to PEI the next day.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 17, 2021, 11:24:15 AM
Final mileage: 4,510 miles
New Counties: 45 in the U.S., 51 in Canada
New 2dis Clinched: I-70, I-88, I-91, I-93, I-95
New 3dis Clinched: I-495 (DE), I-384 (CT), I-291 (CT), I-391 (MA), I-395 (ME), I-293 (NH), I-195 (ME), I-495 (ME), I-295 (ME), I-291 (MA), I-787 (NY), I-890 (NY), I-476 (PA), I-276 (PA), I-295 (DE/NJ/PA), I-676 (NJ/PA)

Decided to change gears on my last day and avoid NYC.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on October 17, 2021, 04:16:24 PM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 17, 2021, 11:24:15 AM
Final mileage: 4,510 miles
New Counties: 45 in the U.S., 51 in Canada
New 2dis Clinched: I-70, I-88, I-91, I-93, I-95
New 3dis Clinched: I-495 (DE), I-384 (CT), I-291 (CT), I-391 (MA), I-395 (ME), I-293 (NH), I-195 (ME), I-495 (ME), I-295 (ME), I-291 (MA), I-787 (NY), I-890 (NY), I-476 (PA), I-276 (PA), I-295 (DE/NJ/PA), I-676 (NJ/PA)

Decided to change gears on my last day and avoid NYC.

Chris

Now we're looking for a full trip report :)

Did you get the Skyline in?
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 17, 2021, 05:24:03 PM
Full trip report, as requested. :)

Day 1) Swung down into Delaware to finish my interstate clinches there and then essentially took I-95->I-91 to Canada.  I-95 through New York was congested as I thought it would be, but I was kind of surprised how congested I-95 was in Connecticut.  Considering it feels like you're in a rural area, it was fairly stop and go without any real reason why.  One thing I definitely noticed from a driving perspective is how bad the left lane hogs were in NJ/NY/CT.  People would have a lineup of 10 cars behind them and not have a care in the world.  The middle lane was normally the "fast lane".  Unfortunately it was dark by the time I got into Vermont so I missed some scenery there, but I knew I wouldn't be without good scenery for the rest of the trip.  North of White River Junction, I only saw one other car going northbound on I-91, which was kind of eerie.  Stopping at the border was a quick affair with my ArriveCan already sorted and I had received both of my Covid test results that morning.  Almost no traffic on A-55, and then not too much on the other autoroutes into Drummondville.

Day 2) Super pretty drive the whole way.  The colors on the trees were pretty neon all the way from Quebec to Halifax.  I really enjoyed the scenery especially in western New Brunswick where it was quite hilly.  Entrance into New Brunswick was pretty short and sweet having already done the pre-registration.  In and out of the checkpoint in maybe 3-4 minutes.  It was nice having the 110 km/h speed limits after only having 100 km/h in Quebec. Stopped for lunch in Perth-Andover, a cute little town right on the St. John River.  I was somewhat surprised with just how removed the TCH was from the city centers of the towns in NB.  Didn't end up seeing much of Fredericton nor Moncton, although I drove through downtown Moncton on the way back.  The stop at the Nova Scotia border was equally as quick as the New Brunswick stop.  Made it to my hotel in Dartmouth in pretty quick time, but you could definitely tell how much the traffic picked up once I got on NS-102 down towards Halifax, given that Halifax is pretty much the only large town in all of Atlantic Canada.\

Day 3) I decided to use another day off of work (since the internet at the Courtyard I stayed at was abysmal) and realized I could make it out to Burntcoat Head Park during low tide.  I still had some road clinching to do, so I knocked out all of the 100-series stuff around Halifax and a little side trip out to Sambro.  Headed back up to Burntcoat Head, snapped off the obligatory pics, with some really nice driving on NS-215.  Then I headed south to Digby to eat some scallops, all the way down to Yarmouth so I could check out Cape Forchu Lighthouse, and then swung all the way back around to crash in Lunenburg.  My hotel was basically attached to Shipwright Brewery, so that was awesome.

Day 4) Cape Breton day.  Got out bright and early headed up to Sydney.  The drive along Bras d'Or was really nice.  Sydney seemed really crowded for a city of its size, with fairly substantial traffic on Trunk 4 through town.  Swung back around to get to North Sydney and check out the ferry operations a little bit from afar, since I wasn't heading to Newfoundland on this trip.  Then kept going west and turned up onto the Cabot Trail.  Even before you get there, TCH-105 is really nice new New Harris.  The Cabot Trail was everything I thought it would be with the colors and the fun drive.  Not overly crowded, which I was thankful for.  It was starting to get some of the marine layer clouds, so I was worried my views wouldn't be great, but there were pockets where I could get some good photos for the wife.  I did park and do the Skyline hike.  It was pretty misty in the forest, but it was a really nice hike.  I got up to a group of tourists that were hiking and they all had stopped to take photos of some animal life.  I saw a female moose up ahead and took a pic from about 500' away, but then saw a calf not too far away from her, and told the other (somewhat clueless folks that kept trying to get closer) that it wouldn't be a wise idea to crowd her.  Hopefully they moved on soon thereafter.  The final platform had some pretty nice views once I got down to the bottom where I could see below the clouds.  Sadly no sunset pics despite me being there at sunset, but that's okay.  I stayed in Cheticamp and they ended up having a fiddling concert at the Doryman which was awesome.  The crowd was largely 25+ years older than me, but it was nice seeing something that was more local and less touristy.

Day 5) Headed over to the Wood Islands Ferry.  I wasn't quite sure how early I should be there to make sure I got on, but even though I was there 90 minutes early or so, I ended up chatting with a group of Newfoundlanders behind me that were heading over to PEI for some goose hunting.  Once they code switched into English I could understand (they were speaking full "Newfie" to themselves), super interesting conversation.   The drive in PEI was great.  I ended up doing my crazy routing to get all of my route numbers and I ended up on some provincial highways that were a little bit challenging for my Hyundai that I rented.  I figured there would be some gravel roads, but there were some dirt roads with tons of ruts that I would have loved to have had my Wrangler on.  (The two dirt road pics below are PE204 and PE259 respectively).  Ended up in C'Town where I wanted to buy some souvenirs for my wife, but everything along the waterfront was pretty much already closed by 5:00 PM which was a bummer.  I had some great oysters and went and grabbed a couple of beers at Churchill Arms.

Day 6) Back into the U.S.  A couple more random PEI roads to drive and then took the bridge back into New Brunswick.  Decided to do a little county clinching and visit Saint John instead of just taking the TCH back.  The drive on NB-7 heading northbound out of Saint John was among the prettiest drives I went on for the whole trip.  Took NB95 back to the U.S. border and the crossing there took the longest of all of those that I went through.  I think that was mostly just because the border agent was bored.  Considering it's not the busiest crossing normally, and that Canadians can't use it, it must be a pretty boring existence.  There was more traffic on I-95 in Northern Maine than I thought there would be, and made one little side trip to clinch Piscataquis County and crashed in Bangor for the night.  Asked for a recommendation of somewhere to eat that would be open late enough to watch some of the football game and was only recommended chain restaurant crap.  Headed downtown and found a little dive bar, but the staff was more interested in talking to themselves than any of their guests, so I left after having had an empty glass for 10 minutes at the bar with no one noticing.

Day 7)  My New England adventure.  Drove a bunch of back roads to hit all of the Maine counties and the drive up to Jay and then down to Fryeburg was really nice.  Stopped for lunch in Fryeburg at the 302 Smokehouse and had the best clams I've ever had.  I walked around a little bit there and then a bit in North Canton, NH as well and really liked the area.  Kept going up US302 and took some of my favorite pics of the whole trip.  Wandered my way back over to St. Johnsbury so I could get I-93 clinched.  The drive through Franconia Notch was really cool and I said a silent RIP to the Old Man of the Mountain.  Cut across I-495 in MA to get back to I-95 heading to Portland for the night.  I had intended to meet up with AARoads member 1, but unfortunately my dilly-dallying led to me not getting down to his area until far too late since I had dinner plans with a buddy in Portland at 8:00. Grabbed a beer and some lobster rolls downtown and watched some of the Red Sox game before heading back to the hotel.

Day 8) I had decided that since I had to have my rental car back at 5:00 for my 7:00 flight in Philly, I better err on the side of caution and leave really early to make sure I didn't get stuck in some weird traffic.  I also decided to avoid NYC since even if I went a longer way, it would be more predictable than driving through the Megalopolis.  Skirted Boston and then took the MassPike over to Albany, hit up some of the 3dis on the way, and then I clinched I-88 which was one of the few 2dis I hadn't been on prior to the trip.  Took I-81 to I-476 all the way down to Philly, and then since I had extra time, decided to get all of the Philly area 3dis clinched before I headed back to the airport.

Select photos:
(https://i.postimg.cc/PqFkmpGx/20211010-105608.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/sX61GDm9/20211010-135237.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/CdyhbZqD/20211011-083324.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/SKXm17f8/20211011-110711.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/C1TpPy1T/20211011-155326.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/1RwLzYz4/20211011-182417.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/MKP2kfTY/20211012-145724.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/76VtgjJN/20211012-152925.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/zDxP3Zrz/20211012-153542.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/zBtSDNR4/20211012-153803.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/DfNdt2hX/20211012-155424.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/mrTQQkY0/20211012-163209.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/7PjtS1fd/20211012-170750.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/hvmr2wfw/20211012-175318.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Wz0GGkyc/20211013-110225.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/W3kgVZTq/20211013-131030.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/yNw3LNc1/20211013-132526.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Y0t9PL9H/20211013-174419.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/N0hQV2Jz/20211015-112216.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/MHGwR7Hv/20211015-143627.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/vZnsWHYL/20211015-144241.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/mDmfbPjR/20211015-145204.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on October 19, 2021, 08:20:39 AM
Thanks for the report Chris and great photos! Looks like you accomplished most things you set to to do. Too bad you didn't get the sunset from the Skyline Trail....but did get to experience the Fundy Tides at Burntcoat Head. And those PEI Heritage Roads are a nice drive with the red earth and leaves this time of the year.

https://www.tourismpei.com/what-to-do/attractions-sightseeing/scenic-heritage-roads
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 19, 2021, 08:44:05 AM
Thanks!  And thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions.  It was a really nice trip and would love to explore more up there someday.  Probably have to check Newfoundland off my list at some point in the future once my kiddo can travel, but really enjoyed my time in Nova Scotia and could see myself making it a regular thing to get out there.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: paulthemapguy on October 20, 2021, 09:44:35 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 19, 2021, 08:44:05 AM
Thanks!  And thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions.  It was a really nice trip and would love to explore more up there someday.  Probably have to check Newfoundland off my list at some point in the future once my kiddo can travel, but really enjoyed my time in Nova Scotia and could see myself making it a regular thing to get out there.

Chris

Glad you had a great trip! When I went up to Nova Scotia two years ago, it made me really fall in love with the place.  I could also see myself making regular trips up there.  And it also really gave me the craving to try and see Newfoundland.  :D
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 20, 2021, 10:44:07 AM
Quote from: paulthemapguy on October 20, 2021, 09:44:35 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 19, 2021, 08:44:05 AM
Thanks!  And thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions.  It was a really nice trip and would love to explore more up there someday.  Probably have to check Newfoundland off my list at some point in the future once my kiddo can travel, but really enjoyed my time in Nova Scotia and could see myself making it a regular thing to get out there.

Chris

Glad you had a great trip! When I went up to Nova Scotia two years ago, it made me really fall in love with the place.  I could also see myself making regular trips up there.  And it also really gave me the craving to try and see Newfoundland.  :D

It's funny.  I chatted with the bartender (probably mid 20's female) at a place I stopped in Dartmouth and she talked about how it wasn't the best place to grow up because there wasn't much to do other than some outdoors stuff.  I told her that that was exactly what appealed to me. :)  In my 20's, I wanted more excitement too I suppose.

Chris
Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: ghYHZ on October 20, 2021, 11:20:19 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 20, 2021, 10:44:07 AM
Quote from: paulthemapguy on October 20, 2021, 09:44:35 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 19, 2021, 08:44:05 AM
Thanks!  And thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions.  It was a really nice trip and would love to explore more up there someday.  Probably have to check Newfoundland off my list at some point in the future once my kiddo can travel, but really enjoyed my time in Nova Scotia and could see myself making it a regular thing to get out there. Chris
Glad you had a great trip! When I went up to Nova Scotia two years ago, it made me really fall in love with the place.  I could also see myself making regular trips up there.  And it also really gave me the craving to try and see Newfoundland.  :D
It's funny.  I chatted with the bartender (probably mid 20's female) at a place I stopped in Dartmouth and she talked about how it wasn't the best place to grow up because there wasn't much to do other than some outdoors stuff.  I told her that that was exactly what appealed to me. :)  In my 20's, I wanted more excitement too I suppose. Chris

I was the same way.....just couldn't wait to get on the road to Boston, Montreal or Toronto. Now...Halifax (pop 400,000) has the amenities of the big city I'm looking for but still a small town feel to it. And with Covid and forced to stay home I really got to experience what we do have here in Nova Scotia and within the Atlantic Bubble. I picked up a Parks Canada Pass this year and really got my moneys worth. Don't think I've ever spent as much time in a tent as I did this year!

Title: Re: New England/Atlantic Canada Road Trip 10/9/21-10/16/21 - Input Requested
Post by: JayhawkCO on October 20, 2021, 11:38:14 AM
Quote from: ghYHZ on October 20, 2021, 11:20:19 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 20, 2021, 10:44:07 AM
Quote from: paulthemapguy on October 20, 2021, 09:44:35 AM
Quote from: jayhawkco on October 19, 2021, 08:44:05 AM
Thanks!  And thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions.  It was a really nice trip and would love to explore more up there someday.  Probably have to check Newfoundland off my list at some point in the future once my kiddo can travel, but really enjoyed my time in Nova Scotia and could see myself making it a regular thing to get out there. Chris
Glad you had a great trip! When I went up to Nova Scotia two years ago, it made me really fall in love with the place.  I could also see myself making regular trips up there.  And it also really gave me the craving to try and see Newfoundland.  :D
It's funny.  I chatted with the bartender (probably mid 20's female) at a place I stopped in Dartmouth and she talked about how it wasn't the best place to grow up because there wasn't much to do other than some outdoors stuff.  I told her that that was exactly what appealed to me. :)  In my 20's, I wanted more excitement too I suppose. Chris

I was the same way.....just couldn't wait to get on the road to Boston, Montreal or Toronto. Now...Halifax (pop 400,000) has the amenities of the big city I'm looking for but still a small town feel to it. And with Covid and forced to stay home I really got to experience what we do have here in Nova Scotia and within the Atlantic Bubble. I picked up a Parks Canada Pass this year and really got my moneys worth. Don't think I've ever spent as much time in a tent as I did this year!

I think my next trip to Canada very well might be to do some camping and hiking in Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland, as I'd love to do the Long Range Traverse.  I'd also love to visit Nahanni National Park (in NWT), Torngat Mountains National Park (in Labrador) and Auyuittuq National Park (Baffin Island, Nunavut), but they seem to be pretty cost prohibitive to get there.  I just need to see these places:

(https://images.glaciermedia.ca/polopoly_fs/1.20993360.1499470000!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_804/0708-grosmorne2-jpg.jpg) - Western Brook Fjord in Gros Morne
(https://gripped.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Cirque-of-the-Unclimbables.jpg) - Cirque of the Unclimbables in Nahanni
(https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/-/media/marquees/top-destinations/torngat-mountains/torngat-mountains/torngats-main-header.jpg?mh=960&mw=1280&hash=83F968290E987EC6350EFC706ACB80EAFFA29C6B) - Unnamed Mountain in Torngat
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/04/01/09/26670234-0-image-a-12_1585731454644.jpg) - Mount Thor in Auyuittuq
(https://sierraoutsider.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/on-the-approach-to-mt-loki-with-mt-asgard-behind.jpg) - Mount Asgard in Auyuittuq

Chris
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