Commuting on the Hank Aaron State Trail

The weather yesterday was delightful, especially in light of the weather we've been having here in Milwaukee lately.  It was sunny and 60 degrees for my ride home. 

I often integrate the Hank Aaron Trail into my commute home.  It adds a couple of miles to my commute, which is a good thing.  How many car commuters do you know who would voluntarily extend their commute home after a tiring day in the office?  When you're on a bike, and it's a fine October afternoon, there is nothing better than sneaking a couple of extra miles into the ride home.  Especially on the Hank Aaron Trail. 

The Hank Aaron Trail follows the Menomonee River from downtown Milwaukee to Miller Park.  A map of the trail is available here.  A good portion of the trail is set on a wide sidewalk running along Canal Street.  In addition to the main trail along Canal Street, there are a couple of side trip loops that take you for scenic jaunts along the river's edge. 

Sections of the river loop are lined with artwork and wildflowers:

Yesterday's ride provided some fine fall colors:

While I typically see a handful of bike commuters and other recreational types using the main path along Canal Street, I usually have the entire river loop all to myself.  This is nice, especially if I want some privacy for grabbing some of the freebies floating down the Menomonee River, like this nerf football:

I always feel like I'm in France when I'm riding along this narrow section of the river loop under the trees: 

I haven't been to France since I was four years old, and I certainly didn't do any cycling (or tricycling for that matter) when I was there at that tender young age.  Come to think of it, I have no idea why this part of the trail feels like France, but it does, so please don't ruin the moment for me.

The end of the trail leaves you at this familiar Milwaukee landmark:

From there, I head up 44th to Wells, which is a good jumping off point for destinations in Wauwatosa, or in my case Sherman Park.  Hey, I'm almost home after a long day at work.  It's Miller Time!