Even though our time in Canada was wonderful, it was still nice to be back in the good old USA! I was surprised at how good it felt – and actually how safe I felt (even though I was coming into Buffalo! =) ). Lizzie was pointed to Erie and Presque Isle right outside of Erie. Presque Isle is a lovely state park – lot’s of sandy beaches (and the only waves in PA, so I’ve read), lots of hiking and biking trails and a little bit of history to boot. This is where Commondeer Perry built (well, I’m sure he had some help) the six boats that were used in the decisive Battle on Lake Erie during the War of 1812. One of those ships remain – the Niagara, which is docked in Erie and is fully seaworthy. In fact, if you want to volunteer, they take about two dozen volunteers at a time to help maintain and sail this brig around the US. We didn’t sign up – so there’s probably room for you!
Later that same day we stopped at the only National Park in Ohio – the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron. It wasn’t a “destination” park – no geisers or ocean cliffs – but it was full of wonderful hiking and biking paths and some bits of history also. It was the route of the Ohio & Erie Canal – which is now a bike path. We learned a little more about turn of the century boats – this time the canal barges. (Between the USS Constitution in Boston, the Mystic Seaport, the first nuclear submarine, the Nautalis, the US Brig Niagara and now the Canal boats, we’re becoming quite informed about all things floating….not to mention the new Kayak experience…..). Anyway – about the park – it was really very nice and although we didn’t stop long (you know, Columbus was calling…..), it seemed like there was a lot to offer.

I haven’t had a chance to upload the pictures from Presque Isle and Cuyahoga Valley – but watch for them soon on the Picture page…..

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