05/22/2026
Thursday 5/21 — Solo road ride, 35 miles
The weekend forecast looked pretty bleak, so I figured I’d sneak in an “insurance ride” around the triangle while I had the chance. What happened out on the road was something I never expected.
I was rolling through Lower Bank on Church Road, just past the cemetery, when I spotted something up ahead in the middle of the road. At first glance, I figured it was probably a piece of trash or maybe a dead animal.
Then it moved.
Slowly crossing from right to left in front of me was an absolutely massive turtle. I rode past as it lumbered toward the shoulder, but curiosity got the better of me, so I turned around to grab a photo.
That’s when things got interesting.
I stopped maybe three or four feet away — no plans to touch it, just snap a quick picture and move on. Usually turtles either retreat into their shell or keep heading for the woods. Not this one.
The moment it sensed me, it slowly turned a full 180 degrees until it was staring directly up at me on the bike.
This thing was impressive. A huge, weathered shell, thick legs, and gnarly claws that looked close to two inches long. Pure prehistoric vibes.
I pulled out my phone, and the turtle never broke eye contact. Honestly, the expression felt like: “Alright big guy… let’s see what you’ve got.” Or maybe it was just wondering who this strange cyclist with the helmet and glasses was.
I snapped the photo, though it really didn’t capture how intimidating — and fascinating — this turtle looked in person. The entire time, it just stared at me without flinching until I finally turned and continued my ride.
On the way home, curiosity got the better of me again, so I stopped by the Bass River office to tell the story and show them the photo. Even though the picture wasn’t great, the staff agreed it was almost certainly a snapping turtle, probably 25–30 years old… maybe even older.
Just another unforgettable day out on the road.
