RIDE NAME: Etowah-Mills River 24 mi/Lvl 7/1,235’/+6.5% max grade
RWGPS LINK: ETW-MillsRiver-24 · Ride with GPS
RIDE DESCRIPTON: A casual ride for folks who want to enjoy the company of others. This is a 24-mile, level 7 ride with elevation gain of about 1,235 feet (51 ft/mile) and a maximum climbing grade of 6.5%. We will attempt to keep the average speed under 13 mph. The ride may, if necessary, be divided into two groups to accommodate the variety of riders. This is a NO-DROP Ride, however, in case you find yourself inadvertently dropped and in need of help, be sure you have the ride leader's contact info and call or text them for support.
PARKING CONSIDERATIONS: There is plenty of parking available at Etowah Park. Park in the lot closest to the road.
HYDRATION, NOURISHMENT AND AVAILABILITY OF RESTROOMS: Bring your own water and snacks. Restrooms and water are available.
EQUIPMENT: Helmets and water bottles are mandatory. Have the route on your bike computer, phone, or printed cue sheet. Front-facing headlights and rear blinking lights are highly recommended for this ride and required on the Blue Ridge Parkway unless appropriate reflectors are attached. Your bike must be equipped with the necessary lights or reflectors in accordance with applicable North Carolina and federal law and statutes governing bicycles. You should be fully self-sufficient for repair of flat tires or small mechanical issues.
NOTE: All rides leave promptly at the time stated. Give yourself enough time (at least fifteen minutes) to get your bike unloaded and all geared up!
WEATHER: Please remember if the weather looks "iffy" or gets bad before the start date and time, then the ride leaders may not be there, and you will be riding on your own. We will try to send an email if that happens, but Western NC is a very large area, and some places could be sunshine and other places bad weather.
NON-MEMBER RIDERS (GUESTS): As a participant in a BRBC ride, you must sign the "Waiver and Release of Liability" found here: Surveys - Blue Ridge Bicycle Club (clubexpress.com)
RIDER'S RESPONSIBILITIES: Rider's Responsibilities - Blue Ridge Bicycle Club (clubexpress.com)