I’m back from an alternate reality
For me driving to Long Island is a trip to an alternate reality. Most of the trip is an enjoyable ride through some very scenic landscapes. The first two and a half hours takes me through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains and real wilderness. One of my favorite sights is a small bridge and dam just a few miles south of Long Lake. I finally stopped and took the photo I’ve promised myself for years to take.
There are far too many stops to make while driving through the Adirondack Park. I’m usually in a big hurry to get the 8 hour drive behind me and passed so many great shots I feel a bit guilty not taking them. Sometimes it’s not possible. Once I leave the back roads I hit Interstate 87: The Adirondack Northway and stopping on the roadside is not really an option. So I cruise south to Albany And then jag east on Interstate 90 to avoid the heavy traffic and enjoy the more relaxinging and scenic Taconic State Parkway. Another reason is to avoid the tolls. Once you head south from Albany 87 is a toll road that leads you to the Tappan Zee Bridge and it’s toll. The Taconic is passenger vehicles only and traffic is light and slower. The speed limit is 55 and the State Police strictly enforce the limit.
I took this shot of a deer rack on the Taconic Parkway. Quality isn’t that great since I couldn’t focus and drive at the same time. This guy zoomed by me like I was standing still. Either he was freaked out by being followed so closely or didn’t want his dinner to get cold.
Getting close to the end of the scenic drive I’m left to wonder about how The Donald got a state park named after him.
I hit Interstate 287 just past the Tappen Zee Bridge and that’s the point where I realize I’ve entered the urban landscape. Traffic is very heavy and disturbing for someone used to empty roads. There is only one way to drive. Like a madman.
I’m awe struck each time I drive though the urban landscape. It’s hard to believe people cram themselves into such close quarters. I’m pretty sure that more people live within a couple blocks than the entire county I’ve left. And St. Lawrence County is the second or third largest county east of the Mississippi River.
After about a half hour I finally hit the only toll booths on this route. The Throng’s Neck Bridge is my exit from the Bronx and I get a nice view of the New York City skyline.
Crossing the Throng’s Neck Bridge gives a good view of the housing opportunities in Beechhurst.
I know I’d rather go back to living in a Tee Pee even in the north country winters than take advantage of the body heat provided in living in such close quarters.
Thank goodness the only goose-stepping residents are from Canada.
I find the humans to be diverse and friendly once you get them out of their vehicles.
November 22nd, 2008 at 12:53 pm
I’m glad you’re back. I’m with you about the urban crowds. I grew up in Nebraska and ended up in Detroit because there is no work back there. I’ve been here for more than 40 years and I still can’t get used to the way people live on top of each other.
November 22nd, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Dear Mr. WiseA**
I’m going to try and forgive you about that picture of the dead dear on speedie’s cold hearted soulless vehicle ( yes .. I understand culling for over population) .. but not for entertainment, or bragging rights as to how manly it is to high tech killing of wildlife .. ok .. preaching over .. off my soapbox .. using it for fire wood, which is tricky with a gas fireplace.
The route you took .. I think it is the same one that Betty and Barney Hill took when they were obducted by aliens1961 … how are you feeling by the way ? Nope got it wrong .. it was in New Hampshire .. darn, I thought I was on to something here. SNAP !!
PS .. Hey … you started this all with the “dare” thing ..
November 22nd, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Great to “see” you. Nice looking deer and just for Joy’s info, around here most folks get their deer to augment their winter meat supply, but maybe things are different where she is from.
You drive very near my neck of the woods on your way through…northern Rensselaer County.
The city is lovely to look at, but I sure wouldn’t want to have to live there.
November 22nd, 2008 at 10:23 pm
Welcome back! I see you brought us some great photos, and all I got you was this little comment.
November 23rd, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Glad you’re back safe and sound. Rural living is the only way to go!
November 23rd, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Didn’t want his dinner to get cold. -LOL
Always something on your blog to give me a chuckle.
November 24th, 2008 at 9:46 am
Oh my god .. Dear Dear Mr. WiseA** .. I’m so sorry about your finger tip .. but that is such a man thing isn’t it .. grin and bear it and use DUCT TAPE !!!! LOL ..
I also get it when the deer population is too much .. they starve because of it if not culled .. and yes .. to give the meat to families who need supplemental food sources .. yes of course ..
So to Debbie .. I GET THAT PART TOO ! : )
November 24th, 2008 at 7:44 pm
Welcome home, WA. Ah, the smell of balsam woods and the views of the wide open spaces surely must be Heaven! No way could I ever live in an urban space again. I like my space and even my driveway sign says “Trespassers will be composted”!
November 27th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
I love the way you documented your journey and is a great way for people to get a taste of trips they might want to take. The reason for commenting was to say I loved the picture of the bridge by Long Lake and welcome back.