Branch Brook Park in Newark is home more than 4,000 cherry trees that blossom during April and are greater both in variety and number than the famed Washington, D.C., display. This is a weekday exploration when it is less crowded and should be in the middle of bloom season. Plan on 8-10 miles of low speed street and path riding while we admire the trees. We will plan to attend the 11:00 "Cherry Blossom Talk" at the Welcome Center. These 30-minute talks discuss the history of cherry blossom trees in the United States, how cherry blossom trees grow, and the history of Branch Brook Park. During the ride, we will allow time to stop for photos and enjoying the scenery. There is no telling how many tourists will be there and frequent stops / slowing down should be expected. Bring a bag lunch to be left in the cars for afterwards.
After lunch, for those interested, we can visit the nearby Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Built on the highest peak in Newark, the French Gothic Cathedral covers 40,000 square feet, an area equal to that of London's Westminster Abbey. It is longer and taller, even, than the renowned St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. It's organ has 9,513 pipes and is the largest church organ in New Jersey. With its 232-foot twin towers, it is taller than the Notre Dame in Paris.
Finally, again, for those interested, an option to make a few quick stops at notable statuary / sites in downtown Newark.
Bring lunch, a bike lock, sneakers or sensible walking shoes, camera (or phone); and the usual helmet, bike light and bell, water. For anybody interested in carpooling I can take 3 in addition to myself - Let me know in the comments. If driving on your own plan for on-street parking using 75 Clifton Ave, Newark as the location. For anybody interested and driving on your own, you can meet at my house and follow me up the turnpike.
