A lovely day in low 60s, sun came out just as we started so I stowed the jacket. The huge hill at the start wasn't as bad as expected - - really just steep for 2 blocks, then fine. And the downhills were worth it! The latter hills were a bit more exhausting, probably because of tired legs. Two new riders, Stacy & Donna, did well. Most of the rodes were quiet and lovely. We went across the MCRT bridge in Waltham that was JUST completed (we used to cautiously walk bikes across, looking down thru the boards....) - such a great improvement! This was a new route, and despite the imposing hills, really enjoyed. From Tom: We all woke up to a cloudy and windy morning. By the time we gathered at Hurd Field, the sun was out and the wind was a breeze at our backs. The early hill, which had concerned many, was conquered by all and we were on our way. Encountering and unexpected detour we followed the signs and got back on route. An extended meander through Belmont delivered us to the newly accessible Waltham section of the Mass Central Rail Trail. After crossing the newly renovated railroad bridge over the commuter rail tracks, we continued on a short section of the Weston portion of the rail trail. We left the trail and followed mostly pleasant back roads into Lincoln. After a stop at Lincoln's Bemis Hall for a break, we finished the climb up Bedford Road and crossed Route 2 at the Tracy's Corner intersection. A new connection between North Great Road (Rte 2A) and Mill Street allowed us to get off the busy road and stop for a photo. Pedaling on we noted the low level of the Cambridge Reservoir. We then passed through Lexington to the Minute Man Bikeway and back to our start.