Decided to take the bike path home tonight- just because I'd reached my limit on dealing with stupid drivers in the snow and I had time on my hands. For those of you who ride into Boston on the Charles River Path- here's my report. Keep in mind plowing on the path is variable and not dependable and if you're in a hurry to get somewhere this may not be the best choice.

Date/Time: 1/2/2010 5:30-6:30 pm

Weather conditions: 25〫F, LIght snow/sleet, NW wind 20 mph

The bike I am riding is set-up specifically for winter riding- A Specialized Rock Hopper with front shocks, triple chain rings, fenders and Nokian 26x1.95 studded snow tires.

This report of conditions covers the Boston side of the Charles River Path from Kenmore Square heading west to Watertown Square.

Overall assessment: The path from Kenmore to Watertown Square was in a rideable condition virtually the whole way for a cyclist on a bike well set-up for winter riding. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being down to bare pavement with no ice and 1 being "get out the ice boat and cross country skis" the path was about a 6.5 for much of the way. Be prepared for some occasional bushwhacking and a considerably slower ride than under ideal conditions but a fun ride and good work out if you want it and a not too bad alternative to the streets on a snowy night.