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The Pedalshift Project 408: Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 6

The Pedalshift Project 408: Lake Ontario 2025 – Part 6

Transitioning from from the peaceful Toronto Island back into the  urban sprawl of southern Ontario is a bit of a record scratch I’ll more thoroughly experience when I eventually ride this ride, but a fast forward to a stunning Niagara Falls hotel leads to an extensive e-bike exploration of the Niagara River and Falls area. But plans always have a way of changing and this day was no different.

The Pedalshift Project 408: Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 6

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Lake Ontario 2025 – Part 6

Toronto Island Farewell 

  • Final morning walk through the quiet island community
  • Observations on the unique housing stock and lifestyle
  • Discussion of waiting lists and the appeal of island living
  • Apple tree sightings continuing the Lake Ontario apple theme

Hotel with a View 

  • Check-in at a dated but perfectly positioned Niagara Falls hotel
  • Room with an “outrageous” view directly overlooking Horseshoe Falls
  • Plans to bring dinner back to the room due to the unbeatable vista
  • Discussion of off-season pricing and business travel perks

Vehicle Talk 

  • Introduction to the new Toyota RAV4 plugin hybrid
  • Upcoming camping drawer system installation
  • Comparison to previous vehicle setups
  • Teasing of a major summer adventure

Navigation Adventures 

  • Challenges finding the proper cycling route to Niagara Parkway
  • Discovery of abandoned rail right-of-way
  • Multiple elevation changes due to the Niagara Escarpment
  • Eventually finding the correct riverside path

Hydroelectric Discovery

  • Learning about the Niagara Tunnel Project – 10.2 km underground tunnel
  • Understanding how power generation works 40 meters below the river surface
  • Observing the transformation from calm upstream waters to rushing rapids
  • Multiple spillways and control structures

Falls Experience 

  • Cycling directly along the Niagara River as it approaches the falls
  • Walking the bike through crowded tourist areas
  • Experiencing mist from both American and Horseshoe Falls
  • International tourism observations
  • Discussion of why this isn’t a national/provincial park

Family Matters

  • Mid-episode phone call requiring attention to family health issues
  • Decision to return home earlier than planned
  • Reflection on how circumstances aligned properly for the situation

Looking Ahead

  • Announcement of a “proper” Day 6 episode
  • Plans to complete the original intended route from mother’s former home to current home
  • Postponement of international border crossing for future adventure

Statistics

Miles biked 6

Number of Superman II references 3

Outrageous parking cost at the hotel 45 CAD

Length in seconds of the full color cycle of the falls lighting at night 69 (nice)

iPod dockable clock radios in the hotel that are so vintage as to be worth way more than the hotel probably thinks 1

Flats 0

As always we like to close out the show with a special shoutout to the Pedalshift Society! Because of support from listeners like you, Pedalshift is a weekly bicycle touring podcast with a global community, expanding into live shows and covering new tours like this summer’s upcoming bike tour! If you like what you hear, you can support the show for 5 bucks, 2 bucks or even a buck a month. And there’s one-shot and annual options if you’re not into the small monthly thing. Check it all out at pedalshift.net/society.

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to JUKEBOX BOY wherever cool music is available!