Merrimack River Ride (35) + Picnic/BBQ

Let's revive an event that happened a few times in the past, a season-ending ride followed by a potluck barbeque/picnic.

Weather-permitting, this will be a no-drop ride through the beautiful rolling roads on either side of the Merrimack River between Newburyport and Groveland. We've built in an optional side-trip out to Plum Island which people can skip to save 5 miles and avoid any head wind. Everyone is welcome, we will regroup at each intersection. The ride is a fun variation of an old school Boston Area Cycling route I've led dozens of times.

DISTANCE: 34.5 miles
ELEVATION: 1,125 ft

PLEASE READ this entire description....
We'll try keep a steady rolling minimum average pace of 14 mph on well paved (mostly) back roads past scenic Farms, Rolling Hills and Ocean Views. Although we never hold anyone back that wants to ride faster we do ask that you are able to stay with the main group. We'll do our best to wait for folks at intersections and the tops of larger hills* however we will not be stopping for any length of time this is a continuous spinning ride.

The route map and GPS file can be found here*
Merr35 · Ride with GPS

Please upload to a navigation device if possible.

*There are several MODERATE hills on this route (but very rewarding).
*The route can be shortened by about 5 miles for those not wanting to go out to Plum Island.

NOTE 1: PLEASE arrive ahead of time to prepare, make any last minute adjustments and ride at the posted time. We will ride promptly at the posted time. The start time is NOT the arrive at the starting location time.
NOTE 2: Helmets are required, Mirrors, Hi-Viz Clothing, as well as front and rear lights are always strongly suggested & encouraged.
NOTE 3: We've reserved a picnic pavilion at the starting point for anyone wanting to hang around after the ride for a picnic/barbeque. Feel free to bring your own lunch or food to share, I will post more detail later but I believe there is a charcoal grill available to us. If you intend to bring extra food, please note what (generally) in the comments so we don't end up with too much of any item.
NOTE 4: Guests are welcomed for either the ride or just the picnic since this is a socially-focused event but I would encourage them to sign up for the Greater Boston and New England Area Cycling meetup and RSVP