Sunday is the winter solstice (shortest day of the year). We'll celebrate with a fairly short ride up to Jump Off Rock. Druid costumes optional. :-)
NOTES:
• Ample parking and restrooms at the start.
• No *TERRIBLE* climbs, but Hebron Rd to Jones Gap and the climb to Jump Off Rock are both longish.
• Level 3 target pace for this much climbing is 14.4 to 15.2mph average for the whole ride. Art (no ebike) will try to hit that.
• No real rest stop planned. Cognative Cafe is close to the end of the Ecusta Trl (~mile 22.2). If it's as warm as forecast and not too late, Art plans to go to Sideways Farm Brewery post-ride (4 min drive from Etowah Park).
• This is a REGROUP ride. We'll stop and regroup periodically, but won't wait forever for someone way behind. Ensure you have the route and are fully self-sufficient to complete the ride if you get too far behind. Please call, though, if you get lost or have a problem.
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 leader(s) may not be there and you will be riding on your own. It's always a good idea to check the calendar entry for updates the morning of the ride. Use your own judgement whether it's suitable to ride.
WAIVER: If you are not a BRBC member or have not signed the waiver and release of liability within the last year, please click the box below to complete the form online: