Interstate 86, also known as I-17 and the Southern Tier Expressway, begins a few miles from my home and continues to the East Coast. I-86 is part of my regular routine, taking me to Jamestown and Falconer, NY, occasionally Olean, NY and Warren, PA.
After miles of rolling hills, one comes to the bridge that crosses Chautauqua Lake, a natural spring fed glacial lake. The water there is clear and blue, perfect for sportsmen, vacationers and lovers. It is home in winter to hundreds of ice fisherman on its thick ice. The Winter Festival in Mayville on the other shore takes hefty slabs to build an ice castle almost every year. In summer, boats race, the ferry chugs as thousands converge to take advantage of the water and Chautauqua Institute, a cultural hub in these parts.
For all the beauty of the lake, it gets even better when you get to the rest stop. Yes, the rest stop, just a mile or two past the bridge. On top of a bluff overlooking the lake is a neo-modern, neat building that houses the usual vending machines, maps and restrooms. But outside....ahhh...outside there is unexpected pleasure for the senses.
In the morning, just before the inevitable fog lifts, everything is varied shades of grey. As the sun breaks the fog, the mist sparkles where it clings to each blade of grass. The diamond analogy sounds trite, I know, but that is just what it looks like. In the fall, the sun shining on the water looks like liquid gold, the multi-colored leaves like gems from the treasure of Solomon.
There is a well-kept lawn, a winding sidewalk for travelers to stretch their legs. Flowers bloom from the first crocus of spring to the last marigold. Whoever designed this place knew exactly the meanings of rest and renewal.
I stop there whenever my route takes me to that section of New York. Inspiration is too soft a word. When summer comes, I will take my family or a friend to share the peace and the view, maybe for a picnic, or a bird-watching expedition.
Every state, every city, has a place of wonder like I-86. Take time to find it.
i love that area of the state, beautiful road and scenery. not like down here in south florida where one would be hard pressed to find any beauty on the any interstate. the most beautiful ride would be ocean side.
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