Storia Moria

This was a short day skirting around Verdal along the river, and in dry conditions, would have been relatively pleasant.

After a short section alongside the road from Verdal to Stiklestad, the trail turned down towards the river, initially between some crops and the trees lining the river bank. It rained, and the track here was somehow hard enough to resist the tread of my shoes getting any grip, and slimy enough so that, from time to time, I could feel my feet starting to slip. I was glad when the riverside trail entered a conservation area, widened out and offered a little more traction.

The edge of the river has been preserved as a dense, complex forest. The signboards indicate that there is only enough work done to keep the track clear, but otherwise, the area is not interfered with. The results claimed include a much greater variety of birdlife along than even some jungle habitats.

In contrast, after doing some shopping and having lunch, I crossed the river into Verdal's light industrial area. Acres of concrete storm water stuff in one place, stockpiles of cut timber in another. One might look beautiful in the end, the other probably won't be seen at all if it does its job right.

The campground I am staying at, Soria Moria, was a little further on in a rural setting. I have a very basic cabin, enough for one night, and it appears we are going to be entertained for a little while by a meeting of a local car and bike club. They have been burbling past for the last half hour or so. I will go down later for a look.Read more