went up on the natchez trace today after work... did the usual 28 mile route except I started at the entrance gate rather than the first parking lot, so that added about a mile of climbing before I got to my usual starting area... so I figure around 30 miles total. Took my mountain bike with it's skinny tires on it... wore my new biking shoes w/ the toe clips (cleat plates were mia from shoes, some should be on the way...) effort-wise, it was much better w/ the new shoes.. (they're about 80% rigid... very stiff but some flex) comfort-wise, they not as nice as my sneakers (obviously) On the way back I met up with a fellow named Stephen, and I hung with him and had a nice chat. He had parked further in than I had, and after that parking lot the last 3 miles or so was pretty dark, it was neat riding when it was so dark out... I should hit up one of the 'trace full moon rides next time I get a chance. Really nice ride overall... weather was perfect.