I do it all the time.I cheat and take the late Friday metro train out of town and start from there.I've covered all of the areas within a 100 mile radius of my house in the last 35 years....a few times..... Think I'd go nuts if I couldn't get away.

I live in So Cal,so this time of year I just need front panniers,maybe 15 pounds at most.I have to ride 100 miles in all directions to "get away" from people.....Well except west...