Charlotte. Flirt with a new adventure where love flourishes in urban gardens and peaceful green spaces in the Queen City. Share laughter and stories under the open sky and feel your spirits being elevated while the stress melts away. Plan your escape at charlottesgotalot.com.
MCGILL ROSE GARDEN
PRESIDENT BLAKE DEMASO blake@blueridgeoutdoors.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF JEDD FERRIS jedd@blueridgeoutdoors.com
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PENNSYLVANIA GRAVEL RIDING
The Keystone State has many miles of amazing terrain for bikers. 12 | RAILBIKES IN THE SOUTH
Where to try this fun, family friendly activity.
27 | MTB
TOWNS
These Southern burgs are surrounded by sweet singletrack.
FAMILY HIKES
Colorful
52 | FINDING PARADISE
A big brother helps a younger sibling push his adventure limits.
54 | OUTSIDE
RICHMOND
Adventures in and around Virginia’s capital city.
PHOTO BY EDWARD STODDARD, HAPPYVALLEY.COM
As summer blended into autumn, the cooler temperatures had us craving more outdoor adventure. So we opted for a mid-week trip to the mountains of Jackson County, NC. With fewer crowds during the week, we were able to soak up all the heart-pumping hikes, rich fall foliage, and alfresco dining our hearts desired. It was our favorite way to welcome the new season.
Whiteside Mountain
Blue Ridge Parkway
PEDAL PERSISTENCE
A Virginia man has maintained a decade-long daily cycling streak, and he has no plans to stop.
BY JARRETT VAN METER
ON MOST DAYS, THE ALARM GOES off at 3:20 a.m. Occasionally it’s a different time: later on weekends, or even 12:01 a.m. when the schedule is full and time is short. But on almost every weekday, 3:20 is the magic hour.
Colin Gay wastes no time once the bell rings. He springs from bed so he doesn’t wake his sleeping wife and because, more than nine years into this, his body and mind are now tuned to the rhythm of the unique schedule.
In the still dark, he changes into his riding outfit and makes his way to the bathroom. He brushes his teeth, flosses, and exchanges a few blinks with his mirrored reflection. Then it is straight down to his bike shed. No coffee. No food.
When he started doing this, back in 2014, he didn’t even own a bike. He had to borrow one from the mountain bike program at Woodberry Forest, the boarding school where he taught, coached, and lived for more than 20 years. Today, he lives in Ruckersville and owns eight different bikes. He chooses the day’s rig, sets his myriad lights, turns on his multiple ride trackers, and pedals off into another central Virginia morning by 4:00 a.m.
As of this writing in June, Gay has ridden at least 30 miles every day for 3,555 consecutive days. Whether there be rain, snow, or oppressive heat, he always rides outside, never on a trainer. He has kept the streak alive while battling kidney stones and a case of COVID-19. He has ridden at all hours of the day, in Iceland, Jamaica, and California. He does this on top of working full time in government contracting and raising two children. For Gay, keeping the streak is about more than fitness. He says it’s about commitment and being
the best version of himself. He enjoys riding his bike, as a time of introspection and meditation. Many rides take place as part of races and events, and his favorites are those with friends, but when he is alone on nearly empty Albemarle County roads, he has time to reflect. He thinks about the previous day and the one that lies ahead. Sometimes, he doesn’t think at all, coming back into his surroundings to realize that he has ticked off 15 or 20 miles in a blissful flow state.
Somewhere along the way on each ride, he takes a selfie to post on his @ridestreak Instagram account. A few people recognize him. One anonymous driver yells words of encouragement to him every morning, and when he sees the cycling team from the nearby Miller School out for a morning workout, some of the boys holler.
“It’s Ride Streak!” they yell. “What’s up, Ride Streak?!”
Despite years of doing this, Gay hasn’t gained much speed. Endurance, yes, but not speed. As such, his pace is predictable: the standard 30-mile ride clocks right at two hours. He pulls back into his shed at 6:00 a.m., plenty of time to shower, dress, eat some yogurt and nuts, and be a part of his children’s morning. The box is checked. The streak lives on.
“I feel like I've accomplished something,” says Gay. “No matter what happens that day, I got that done, and [my] body just feels better.”
NOBODY SAW THIS COMING, not even Gay himself. He estimates he had ridden a bike 10 times in his life before the streak began in 2014. While a student at Woodberry in the early 90s, Gay starred in football, wrestling, and lacrosse. He was not particularly
big or athletic, but he leveraged an uncommon level of resolve and mental fortitude to become a team captain in all three sports. After receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Virginia, he returned to his high school alma mater to teach and coach. Living and working at a boarding school demands long hours, and his physical health suffered. He gained weight. His energy was low. In search of a change, he hopped on one of the school’s mountain bikes.
Woodberry’s front entrance road is long and relatively steep, and when Gay first started riding, he couldn’t even pedal all the way up. Still, he had found something that he loved. He committed on the spot: 100 days in a row, 30 outdoor miles each day. When he got there, he bumped the finish line out to 1,000 days. Then 10,000.
“He will never take the easy road,” says Matt Hawkins, Gay’s classmate at Woodberry and best friend. “He just will find more energy or room in his life.”
Hawkins is an avid cyclist who, after being hit while out for a ride in 2014, started his own apparel company called Ridge Supply with the intention of creating highvisibility clothing for riders. He has been a supporter of the streak from the start, helping Gay get set up
with the right gear, joining him on dozens of rides, and even launching a special Ridge Supply “Ride Streak” sock.
“It’s pretty cool,” says Gay of the socks. “I’m not special. I’m not a pro. I’m not selling him any extra socks… but he certainly makes me feel like a pro.”
On the day of his 2,000th ride in early 2020, Gay breezed up the front hill that had once taunted him and wound his way into the heart of the Woodberry campus. A crowd of colleagues and students was waiting with homemade signs, cheering and blasting the theme music from the “Rocky” films. While he no longer works at the school, he still tries to enjoy the milestones along the way. Ride number 10,000 won’t come until 2042. He hopes he can plan it out enough so that friends like Hawkins will be there. Gay is meticulous with his diet and doesn’t drink alcohol, so there won’t be cake or beers at the end, just the satisfaction of another day checking the box. He’ll park his bike, turn off his ride trackers, and plug in his lights to charge, because the next day, at 4:00 a.m., he’ll need them again.
“Somebody put it like this: I’ve got another 18 years left…that’s just another childhood,” he says with a chuckle. “But I don’t think I’ll just stop at 10,000.”
RIDING BUDDIES: MATT HAWKINS (LEFT) AND GAY. PHOTO BY HAWKINS
Bikepacking for Beginners
The Blue Ridge region has great entry-level routes for multi-day, two-wheeled getaways
BY MALEE OOT
CURIOUS
ABOUT WHERE TO GO bikepacking? Riding into the woods on two wheels with all the essentials strapped to your bike is a fun way to cover big miles during a single trip. But working up to a multi-day getaway takes a little practice and preparation. Fortunately, in the Blue Ridge region, there are plenty of options for entry-level bikepackers still getting their rigs dialed. Here are a handful of easy-to-follow off-road routes that offer plenty of amenities for budding long-distance cyclists.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal – Maryland; Washington, D.C.; and West Virginia
Not so long ago, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal’s towpath was a mule trail, the footpath used by the hardy horse-donkey hybrids used to pull boats between mountainous western Maryland and Washington, D.C.’s waterfront Georgetown neighborhood, the highest location on the Potomac River accessible to
seafaring ships. Paralleling the east bank of the Potomac River, the route was completed in 1850, after more than two decades of construction, and served as a vital economic artery, but the arrival of regional rail lines, particularly the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, made the canal unnecessary, and, by the 1930s, the commercial thoroughfare had been abandoned.
In 1938, the National Park Service took over management of the route, and the Civilian Conservation Corps began restoring the historic canal. But efforts stalled during World War II and the riverside corridor nearly became parkway. Advocates, however, pushed to preserve the historic route as a recreational trail and, in 1971, the riverside canal and its towpath were declared as the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.
Today, the entire 184.5-mile towpath is open to cyclists, offering a car-free route that has conveniently scattered trailside accommodations. For starters, the National Park Service (NPS) manages 31 free hiker-biker campsites and five
car-accessible campgrounds along the route. There are also a dozen trailside towns along the route offering inns, guesthouses, and riverside cottages. These include Harpers Ferry, W. Va., situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, and the historic town of Hancock, one of Maryland’s oldest settlements.
For a one way trip, bikes are permitted on Amtrak’s Capitol Limited train and on the MARC’s Brunswick Line. At the trail’s western terminus, in Cumberland, Md., a vibrant town with an historical district studded with breweries, restaurants, and artisanal shops, cyclists can also opt to continue riding westward toward Pittsburgh for 150 miles along the Great Allegheny Passage.
High Bridge Trail –Virginia
Rambling through the central Virginia countryside from Burkeville to Pamplin, High Bridge Trail State Park offers more than 31 miles to ride. The crushed gravel rail-trail is
the centerpiece of the state park, and the multi-use path is dotted with parking areas, historic sites, and picnic areas equipped with grills and tables. The trail and park are named for their defining feature, the 125-foot-high bridge towering above the Appomattox River. Built by the Southside Railroad in 1854, during the Civil War, the half-milelong bridge was targeted by troops on both sides of the conflict, but amazingly, the wooden structure survived. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, the photogenic bridge is about 0.3 miles from the trail’s Camp Paradise parking area. While the park doesn’t feature campgrounds, the trail runs through Farmville, which is situated near the route’s midpoint.
Caledon State ParkVirginia
A gateway to gravel grinding, Virginia’s Caledon State Park is an ideal getaway for families or firsttime bikepackers, especially riders craving a woodsy, off-road route. Featuring more than 2,500 acres
A GROUP OF BIKERS RIDE ON THE C&O CANAL TOWPATH IN ALLEGANY COUNTY, MARYLAND. PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLEGANY COUNTY, MD
along the Potomac River, including three miles of shoreline, the park is a hotspot for birdlife, particularly as a summer spot for bald eagles. A patchwork of wetlands, riverfront, and mixed woodlands of oak, maple, and tulip poplar, the protected area was first preserved as a Natural Area in 1984, when bald eagles were still on the Endangered Species List. Fortunately, bald eagle populations have rebounded over the last four decades and, as a result, public access to the area was expanded.
In 2012, Caledon Natural Area was reclassified as a state park, and today there are more than 10 miles of trails open to cyclists. The park also offers six campsites situated beside the Potomac River, perfectly positioned for admiring the sunset. On dry land, the campsites are only accessible by bike or on foot, but they’re also reachable in a kayak or canoe, forming part of the Captain John Smith National Heritage Trail. While the campsites are primitive, it’s only a 3.5-mile ride to the riverside spots. And since the park is nestled along the tidal portion of the Potomac River, the driftwood-strewn beachfront is also sprinkled with
fossils,
including ancient shark teeth.
Torrey Brown Rail Trail – Maryland and Pennsylvania
Extending from the Baltimore suburbs and the town of New Freedom, just across the border in Pennsylvania, the 21-mile Torrey Brown Rail Trail makes for an easy weekend getaway. The crushed gravel trail follows the historic path of the North Central Railroad, a line that operated for 140 years, ferrying passengers and freight from Baltimore to points north in Pennsylvania and New York. But in 1972, a violent tropical storm severely damaged the rail bed; and a few years later, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources obtained the former transportation corridor.
The first 7.2-mile stretch along Big Gunpowder Falls between Cockeysville and Monkton opened in 1984 as part of Gunpowder Falls State Park. Today, though, the trail continues northward for more than 10 miles. Across the Pennsylvania border in New Freedom, the trail connects to the 21-mile Heritage Rail Trail County Park, another link in the historic North Central Railroad.
Along the way, the town of Monkton offers an assortment of dining options and accommodations for cyclists, and the trailside Monkton Train Station has been reimagined as a museum and shop.
Virginia Creeper TrailVirginia
The Virginia Creeper Trail traverses a scenic swath of the remote Jefferson National Forest, but the 34 mile rail-trail is still loaded with amenities for cyclists. The route originated as a footpath used by the region’s indigenous communities, and later by westbound settlers, but by the early 1900s, the trail had been transformed into the Virginia-Carolina Railroad, a link in the Norfolk & Western Rail. The route connected communities in southwest Virginia and North Carolina, using steam-powered locomotives that used to “creep” up the steep mountain grades. Once completed in 1912, the Whitetop Laurel Station became the highest train station east of the Mississippi River, but since the last train ran in 1977 the former rail bed has
been reimagined as a regional recreational trail, extending from the town of Abingdon to Whitetop Station, along the Virginia-North Carolina border.
The town of Damascus, host of the Appalachian Trail Days Festival, is the trail’s midpoint, offering overnight accommodations, eateries, and places to stock up on gear. Between Whitetop Station and Damascus, the 17-mile stretch of trail is mostly downhill, and it features access points and amenities, including water stops and restrooms at Green Cove Station (open seasonally). Between Damascus and Abingdon, the trail often parallels the trout-stocked waters of Whitetop Laurel Creek, and, while there’s more climbing along this stretch, cyclists are rewarded with scenic views of South Holston Lake and the confluence of the South and Middle Forks of the Holston River. The historic town of Abingdon, the trail’s eastern terminus, offers a range of lodging and dining options. With outfitters in Abingdon and Damascus offering bike rental and shuttle services, it’s easy to plan a trip tailored to desired mileage, even if you only want to ride downhill.
PHOTO BY MALEE OOT
THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL. PHOTO BY MALEE OOT
“Along the way, you’ll see everything from a wrecked train car to Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall, a small cascade recently added to the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.”
All Aboard
Railbike tours provide inclusive, family-friendly fun across the Southeast
BY LAUREN STEPP
THE RAILBIKE IS NOT A NEW INVENTION.
Patented in America in 1869, this auxiliary vehicle was used for track inspections and maintenance. But in recent years, a modernized railbike equipped with hydraulic disc brakes and pedal-assist technology has emerged as a novel way for families to explore scenic landscapes.
Eager to put the pedal to the metal in our neck of the woods, BRO rounded up four railbike tours across the Southeast. From the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in North Carolina to the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad in West Virginia, these tours promise to be a rail-ly good time.
Buffalo Creek Cruise Elk River, West Virginia
Cody Burdette knows the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad well. Since his father worked as a train engineer at the Elk River Coal and Lumber Company in West Virginia, Burdette spent much of his childhood traveling the tracks in the cab of a steam locomotive.
“I got to do what most boys dream of,” Burdette shares in his 2023 memoir, “Son of a Traveling Man.”
These days, Burdette is all grown up and the lumber company is long gone, but he can still ride the rails, thanks to West Virginia’s first-ever railbike tour.
Made possible through a partnership with the West Virginia Department of Transportation and Rail Explorers, the tour invites participants to journey 12 miles through the woods of West Virginia.
Along the way, you’ll see everything from a wrecked train car to Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall, a small cascade recently added to the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. You may even spot a few of the swimming holes Burdette splashed in as a kid.
Andrews Valley Rail Tours
Andrews, North Carolina
Sure, you could drive through Andrews, N.C. But folks with the descending into the limestone hills.
PEDAL THROUGH A 130-YEAR-OLD TUNNEL ALONG THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS RAILROAD. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDREWS VALLEY RAIL TOURS
According to Lu, the experience brings together people of all ages and abilities, thanks to the pedal assistance technology.
“This e-assist creates an effortless ride and allows access into the wilderness once available only to serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts,” she says.
Tours are even open to furry friends. “Previous pets have included dogs, cats, lizards, parrots, and even ducks,” Lu says.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Blue Ridge, Georgia
In 1886, Blue Ridge, Ga., was founded as a whistle-stop on the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad. In the century since, it has grown into a thriving mountain destination, all thanks to the “great iron highway.”
To learn more about the town’s history, hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s 11-mile railbike tour. According to general manager Rachal Gray, you’ll depart from the downtown depot and then “meander alongside streams, vineyards, and the tall, swaying Georgia pines.”
While you soak up the views, guides will share interesting tidbits about Blue Ridge’s storied past—from curative mineral springs that once drew thousands to an iconic drive-in movie theater still in operation. They’ll also point out the Benton MacKaye Trail, a 300-mile footpath that intersects the railway.
“We have received nothing but positive feedback,” says Gray. “The railbikes have been selling out at least a month in advance.”
PASS THROUGH PASTURELAND ALONG
THE LOUISVILLE SOUTHERN RAILROAD. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RAIL EXPLORERS
TRAVEL 5.5 MILES FROM
BLUE RIDGE TO CHERRY LOG,
GA. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLUE RIDGE SCENIC RAILWAY
Rail Explorers: Bluegrass Division, Versailles
DISCOVER TANGLEWOOD TRAIL
Off the Beaten Path
The Tanglewood Trail is a growing 4.6-mile pedestrian and cyclist trail that transects Whitesburg. Running along an abandoned railway bed, the trail connects essential destinations within the city, bringing new life to the city’s attractions and history, including the opening of a 114-year-old railroad tunnel built for the L&N Railroad.
DiscoverLetcher.com/Tanglewood-Trail
SWEET ADVENTURE AWAITS!
Find History, Mystery and Adventure in Hopkinsville Hopkinsville, Kentucky, is a place where sweet adventures await. Over three million bushels of soft red winter wheat are harvested annually. As the leading wheat-producing county in Kentucky, Hopkinsville is responsible for globally recognizable products like Ghirardelli brownie mix, Krusteaz products, Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, SunFlour cornmeal and more. This is why Hopkinsville, KY, is known as the Batter Capital of the World®! VisitHopkinsville.com
BLUEGRASS STATE MUSTS
Discover Georgetown, KY
What can you say about a place like Georgetown, Kentucky? A lot, actually. From our world-famous equine attractions to world-class dining, bourbon and outdoor recreation, Georgetown is the home of Bluegrass adventure. It’s just one of those places. An “if you know, you know” kind of place. A step off the beaten path, mud on the tires kind of place. A horse-saddling, kayak-paddling, bourbon-sipping good times kind of place. It’s your kind of place; you just don’t know it yet. GeorgetownKY.com
GO GRAVEL
Riding the Backroads of Pennsylvania's Secluded State Forests
BY MICHAEL GARRIGAN
THREE SQUARE HOLLOW VISTA, TUSCARORA STATE FOREST. ALL PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GARRIGAN
I KEEP GETTING DISTRACTED BY the bright yellow bracken, deep red maples, and the goldenrod bursting alongside the gravel roads. Luckily, with no traffic, I have enough room to correct my line when my eyes veer me off track. Fall is, hands down, my favorite time of year to spend exploring Pennsylvania State Forests. Even the roadside ditches are beautiful. For years, I would take a fly rod and venture up streams in search of native brook trout and wild brown trout in order to be engulfed by the autumn colors and musk of falling leaves. It was a great way to explore new places and get lost in the woods for a few hours. Then, during the pandemic, I realized I needed to get more exercise, so I dusted off my old Surly Cross Check and began riding my bicycle again. I had forgotten how riding a bike quickly
transports me to a place of easy, childhood joy. I can’t help but smile when I’m pedaling. Eventually, my buddies and I started exploring various state forests across the state in search of gravel roads and solitude. I put on wider tires, bought a fanny pack from Nittany Mountain Works and filled it with snacks, tire sealant, and tools, and quickly learned to love the way unpaved roads took me into and through landscapes. Gravel riding became another way for us to explore the incredible amount of public lands Pennsylvania has to offer. Now, we map our trips around wild trout streams and gravel roads we can ride for miles. Even after a few years of riding and exploring, we have only just begun to scratch the surface.
There are approximately 17,500 miles of gravel and unpaved roads
across Pennsylvania. Thousands of miles of those winding, dusty, sometimes ungraded roads explore the 20 state forests and 124 state parks. These public lands not only offer gravel and dirt roads to ride, but streams to fish, trails to hike, and campsites where we can relax. Our rides start by looking over maps and tracing the roads that will take us to places new to us and that look interesting. The more remote, the better. The windier, the better. The more elevation gain? Usually better. Nearby place to get a cold drink and some food? That’s a plus, but not necessary. Cheap campsite? Perfect.
From there, we find a site that will work as a starting and ending point and weave together the climbs we want to suffer through and the descents we want to flow down and the vistas we want to stop at for snacks and drinks.
We’ll make sure there’s a few blue lines nearby that hold wild trout (there always is, thankfully), and a trip is born. It’s easy to enjoy the 2.5 million acres of public land that Pennsylvania’s state Forests and parks have to offer if you’re willing to put in just a little planning. And here’s a look at three essential options to get you started.
BALD EAGLE STATE FOREST & ROTHROCK STATE FOREST
Both of these adjacent forests are situated in the center of the state and offer an incredible amount of gravel riding opportunities. Some popular starting points for Rothrock are the Galbraith Gap and Coopers Gap parking areas. It’s easy to get lost on a combination of gravel and double track trails from both of those places and, with its abundant
(TOP LEFT) FALL IN BLACK MOSHANNON STATE FOREST. (BELOW) PUBLIC LANDS RIDE, BLACK MOSHANNON STATE FOREST. (RIGHT) PA UNPAVED, BALD EAGLE STATE FOREST
amount of single track, you can even weave in some technical riding if you’re up for the challenge. My personal favorite section in Bald Eagle State Forest is around Poe Paddy State Park. Longwell Draft is a super chunky, technical, and unforgiving trail that is an incredible joy to ride and navigate. Whether descending or ascending, be prepared for giant potholes and big rocks. Loop it into a longer ride with Strong Mountain Improvement and Paddy Mountain Road and enjoy the long, flowy descent into Poe Paddy State Park. From here, you can hit a variety of different types of trails. Penns Creek Path is also a super chill trail that connects with a variety of loops.
POST-RIDE:
After a long day in the saddle, head to Elk Creek Café & Aleworks in Millheim for some great brews and food. Poe Paddy, Poe Valley, and Raymond R. Winter Campgrounds are great launch pads for exploring Bald Eagle State Forest from. Poe
Paddy is a rustic campground with some electric sites and pit toilets. Poe Valley and Raymond R. Winter have amenities, including flush toilets, electric hook-ups, and showers. If you are exploring Rothrock State Forest, grab a site at the rustic PennRoosevelt State Park. You can be in State College within a half hour in order to grab some good grub from a variety of places and stop in at Freeze Thaw Cycles, one of the coolest bike shops in Pennsylvania. Route 322 runs between them and State College to the north and Lewisburg to the east, which both offer plenty of places to stock up on any supplies.
MICHAUX STATE FOREST
Stick to the Maryland/Pennsylvania border and ride a few loops through this area, which is full of history and good places to eat. Michaux has a great mixture of gravel roads and snow-mobile trails (think gated dirt roads with tall grass and no cars). It can be easily split into a northern half and a southern half. Both
offer plenty of opportunities to put together various lengths of loops. For a northern loop, begin at Pine Grove Furnace State Park and find your way to Ridge Road or Piney Mountain Ridge Road. From there, throw together any combination of gravel, snowmobile trails, and even some singletrack in order to make your ride as long or as hard as you’d like.
For a southern loop, use Caledonia State Park as a beginning and ending point. From here, you can put together a loop anywhere from 15-45 miles using High Rock Road and Snowy Mountain Road. There are plenty of trails that intersect these two, enabling you to spend as long as you want exploring this part of the Appalachian Mountains. Depending on where you are coming from, I’d suggest stopping in at The Cycle Works in Wrightsville to grab some good coffee and any bicycle gear you may need.
POST-RIDE:
Michaux Brew Co. in Waynesboro and Thirsty Farmer Brew Works are
great options for post-ride food and beverage. Also, there’s a nice little concessionaire at Pine Grove Furnace State Park (the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail) that offers decent burgers and plenty of snacks and ice cream. Make a weekend out of it and take some time exploring Gettysburg or hike the A.T.
COOK FOREST STATE PARK
If you are in the western edge of the Pennsylvania Wilds, ride through the old growth hemlocks at this state park, which offers some great gravel roads. Cook Forest State Park is remotely situated just north of the Clarion River and is surrounded by thousands of acres of State Game Lands and the Allegheny National Forest. The route options are seemingly endless with a great mix of surface types. Take Tom’s Run Road and build loops that traverse State Game Lands and climb through forest service gravel roads. Whichever route you take, be sure to link in the swoopy roads and big bends along the Clarion River that will lead you back to your starting point.
POST-RIDE:
Reserve a site at Cook Forest State Park, which offers both tent and camper sites, flush toilets, and warm showers. Take a hike through the Forest Cathedral and marvel at the old growth hemlock, pine, and
JOIN THE PACK
If you are looking for structured rides with aid stations, planned routes, and tons of good people, Pennsylvania’s gravel scene has plenty of options. Seasons of Rothrock offers two rides: Whipple Dam Gravel Race in the spring and Rothrock Grit Gravel Grinder in the early summer. Both rides explore the incredible escarpments of the Allegheny Front through Rothrock State Forest.
The Pennsylvania Gravel Series hosts rides throughout the spring, summer, and fall across the state in locations like Michaux State Forest, Parker
oak. Bring a fly rod and fish for some native brook trout in the small streams around the park. Float the Clarion River and bring a fishing rod along for some solid smallmouth bass. Head to the town of Clarion for food and check out Clarion Bicycle and Outdoor. Dam, and Trough Creek. The fall brings in two great rides just weekends apart: The Public Lands Ride that takes you through the incredibly diverse ecosystem of Black Moshannon State Forest (all proceeds benefit the Pennsylvania Environmental Council), and UnPaved, which explores the various sections of Bald Eagle State Forest, including Poe Paddy State Park. For all your adventures, you’d be hard pressed to find a better resource than Purple Lizard Maps, which are incredibly detailed and informative when planning gravel rides.
Closer to nature. And to each other.
In Southern West Virginia, autumn isn’t just a season, it’s an experience. Tap into stunning color and cherished mountain moments along wooded trails, scenic drives and charming towns. Almost Heaven awaits you.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
MTB Towns
These three towns deliver awesome amenities and destination-worthy biking action
BY ERIC J. WALLACE
IT'S NO SECRET THAT THE BLUE
RIDGE region is chock full of killer mountain biking trails and ride areas. But with many trail systems managed by a hodgepodge of municipal agencies, park service personnel and volunteers from local MTB clubs, finding new longweekend-worthy spots can be tougher than you’d think. Here, we go beyond the list of usual suspects to highlight destinations that have tons of great amenities and deliver a treasure trove of rides sure to satisfy every wheelie in your pack.
STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA
Did you know the historic home of Penn State University’s main campus is also host to a thriving mountain biking community? Nestled in a narrow valley between 2,500-foot ridgelines in the state’s central Appalachian Valley and Ridge region, the 41,000-person county seat is surrounded by tens of
thousands of acres of public lands in state forests and parks.
Groups like the Nittany Mountain Biking Association (NMBA) and Rothrock Trail Alliance (RTA) have capitalized on the location to build more than 200 miles of trails within 30 miles of the city. Downtown holds a cornucopia of restored early 19th century and Victorian homes and buildings—plus all the amenities you’d expect from a grade A college town.
THE RIDES
Rothrock State Forest
Its 96,975 acres contain dozens of 2,000-plus-foot peaks, the 45mile Tussey Mountain ridgeline, four state parks and more than 100 miles of mountain biking trails. What’s more, the RTA recently hired pro trail builders to add another 53 miles of routes (around eight of which have already been installed).
Rides range in difficulty from flat and beginner-friendly loops to gnarly, downhill bombers
that would test even the most experienced of thrashers. Find the trailhead to the International Mountain Biking Association designated epic Rothrock Trailmix in the community of Boalsburg on the edge of the forest just four miles outside of town. The 36-mile thigh-mauler carries you deep into the backcountry and offers a hit parade of the most spectacular flow trails, ridgeline rides, and technical singletrack in the area.
Harvest Fields Community Trails and Bike Park
The NMBA spearheaded development around this state-ofthe-art skills facility and flow trail center sits just down the road from the main Rothrock trail area. About four miles of super-smooth, featurerich blue- and green-level trails wind through woodlands that back onto the foot of the Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation resort. But the star of the show is a progression park that opened in 2023. Built by Black
Diamond Trail Designs, it’s divided into courses according to skill level and brings a joyous gauntlet of features like berms, rollers, rock gardens, tabletops, wooden North Shores, platform drops, and log jumps.
HARRISONBURG, VIRGINIA
Thirty-plus years of intensive efforts among an extremely active base of enthusiasts and proximity to longtime MTB-friendly Massanutten Resort led the International Mountain Biking Association to crown this 50,000-person city in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley a Bronzelevel Ride Center way back in 2012. Blend that with a rapidly revitalizing historic downtown area that abuts James Madison University and boasts a slew of restaurants, music venues, bars, and breweries, and you have a rider’s paradise. In town, beautiful Hillandale Park holds a pump track, five miles of purpose-
built MTB routes and a half-mile-long flow park with tabletops and berms. And pre- or post-ride, a must-stop is downtown staple Shenandoah Bicycle Company for a brew on the outdoor patio and to shoot the bull with in-the-know shredders about local trails and riding areas.
THE RIDES Massanutten Resort
The 6,000-acre ski resort is home to one of two lift-assisted bike parks in the state. Slopes are now crisscrossed with about 12 miles of recently rebuilt trails that range in difficulty from greenhorn to prograde. A cluster of routes winds through forests near the lower lift, while a quartet of black-diamonds—including a jump line with about 50 tabletops and drops—along the 3,000-foot ridgeline rounds out the package. Be sure to soak up incredible
Meeks Mountain Trails
gravel service road to ridgeline trailheads serviced by optional weekend van shuttles. Trails run the skill-level gamut. Kid-friendly “Gravel Doubletrack” is a breezy loop through near-magical rhododendron thickets and old-growth oaks. Black-diamond burners like the fast and flowy 1.1-mile “Puzzler” boast features like 50-yard stone rock bridges, park-grade dirt berms, and tabletop jumps with ride-arounds. Connect them to lower elevation blues for five-mile rides with 1,650 feet of vertical descent.
Stokesville / George Washington National Forest
The SVBC has installed 40 miles and counting of Virginia’s highest-elevation purposebuilt MTB routes in the rural Allegheny Mountains about 25 miles west of downtown. The epic, 7.8-mile Timber Ridge Trail drops 2,800 feet through one of the Southeast’s lone remaining stands of mature Canadian hemlocks from 4,400-foot Reddish Knob. Fun, flowy but less demanding routes weave through the high hills around Stokesville Campground.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE
This near 200,000-person city in southeast Tennessee sits nestled amid
the
HARVEST FIELDS COMMUNITY TRAILS.
PHOTO BY NICHOLE YATTA, HAPPYVALLEY.COM
Great Smoky Mountains foothills on the banks of where the Holston and French Broad rivers meet to form the state’s namesake river. The stunning array of natural beauty has combined with a de facto motto of “Keep Knoxville Scrappy” to transform the city into an unpretentious mecca for outdoor recreation that brims with the kind of metropolitan amenities you’d expect to find in Asheville or Boulder. And for two-wheel enthusiasts, there’s plenty to enjoy, as Knoxville has a staggering 200 miles of MTB trails within 25 miles of downtown.
THE RIDES
Knoxville Urban Wilderness
The Knoxville Urban Wilderness is a sprawling 1,500-acre network of protected lands along the banks of three rivers that spans five city parks, four historic heritage sites, a quarry, numerous wildlife management areas, and nature preserves. And it’s all connected by a 60-plus-mile system of natural surface biking and hiking trails.
Baker Creek Preserve is the crown jewel of the many riding areas. The onsite bike park offers a pair of asphalt pump tracks—one of them huge —as well as
MOUNTAIN BIKING
asphalt and crushed-stone progressive jump lines. Eight miles of trails are broken up into some breezy two-way greens, three downhill blues, and a trio of blackdiamond gravity routes. The latter are flagshipped by the stunning .6-mile shredder, Devil’s Racetrack, the result of a $100,000 2015 Bell Built Grant. The short but stellar doubletrack offers big rock drops, massive berms, large tabletops, and a 50-foot wooden wallride.
Windrock Bike Park
Co-developed and designed by pro downhiller Neko Mulally, Windrock was purpose-built for diehard riders. Legendary five-time World Cup downhill champ Aaron Gwin bought the 550-acre park in 2023 and promptly doubled its acreage. And best of all: It sits within an hour of downtown.
With amazing trails, Windrock serves as a training ground for top tier pros. While there are some green and blue routes— and plans are in the works to dramatically expand offerings—the majority of the 29-mile system is dedicated to experts and proliners. Catch the shuttle to the top of 3,200-foot Toddy Mountain and drop into a feature-loaded, 23-trail network with max vertical descents around 2,150 feet.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASSANUTTEN RESORT
Prepare to pedal into fall in the Blue Ridge region, where cooler temps and vibrant autumn foliage set the stage for the perfect ride. Whether you’re tearing up singletrack, racing down country roads, or cruising along gravel paths, this biking guide has something for everyone—from beginners to seasoned pros—ready to find their two-wheeled paradise.
A RIDE FOR EVERYONE IN BEDFORD, VA
Bedford, Virginia, nestled just off the Blue Ridge Parkway and voted Top Small Adventure Town in both 2020 and 2023, is a wonderful place to explore via bike. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on a road cycling route, send it down some singletrack, or take a scenic gravel ride, Bedford has the perfect terrain to suit your adventure.
SINGLETRACK, GRAVEL, AND ROAD
Bedford County offers over 50 miles of singletrack for mountain biking, with trails that cater to beginners, intermediate flow riders, and advanced technical enthusiasts. Popular spots include Falling Creek Park and Montvale Park , with the Falling Creek Bike Park offering a skills area for all levels and a progressive jump line. New London Tech Trails is one of Bedford County’s newer parks, situated within the New London Business and Technology Center. This distinctive trail system offers 6.5 miles of multi-use trails, primarily machine-cut, across more than 500 acres. Moneta Park and Smith Mountain Lake State Park also feature fun trails that are perfect for the whole family, along with a variety of additional activities.
For gravel riding, the Hairy Roubaix routes, benefiting the local animal shelter, start and finish at The Peaks
Retreat and Adventure Center, offering courses with 60-85% gravel. The northern part of the county near Sedalia Center also has great gravel routes. Road cyclists can enjoy the Storming of Thunder Ridge event each May, which includes scenic routes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The county hosts over a dozen organized races and rides each year, with details available @ BedfordOutdoorAdventures on Facebook and Instagram.
Bedford offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including hiking at the Peaks of Otter, disc golf, skateboarding, and water sports at Smith Mountain Lake. Local shops like Blackwater Bike Shop and Play it Again Sports provide the gear you need, while Beale’s Brewery and other eateries throughout Bedford and around Smith Mountain Lake offer great dining options.
BIKE THE MOUNTAIN SIDE OF MARYLAND IN ALLEGANY COUNTY, MD
Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, is a premier destination for biking enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and challenging terrain. Nestled within the Appalachian Plateau and Allegheny Mountains and bordered by the Potomac River, Mountain Maryland is just a short drive from major cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. Featuring picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and diverse trails, cyclists of all levels can explore routes that showcase the region’s rich history and breathtaking vistas.
HISTORIC ROUTES
One of the premier routes through Allegany County is the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile trail that runs from Cumberland, Maryland, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This scenic trail offers a mix of serene landscapes, historic sites, and charming small towns, providing an unforgettable biking experience. Cyclists will appreciate the smooth, well-maintained path that winds through picturesque valleys and alongside the Youghiogheny River,
making it ideal for riders of all levels. With multiple trailheads throughout Allegany County, it’s easy to hop on and off as you explore the trail towns.
Another must-see route is the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Towpath. Spanning 184.5 miles from Georgetown in Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland, this historic route follows the Potomac River and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The towpath is perfect for leisurely rides, and with 48 miles of the
trail in Allegany County, there are plenty of stops to take in the food, culture and historical sites along the Towpath.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Dans Mountain State Park features the newly built Lonacona Loop Trail This 4.4 mile single-track mixed-use hiking/mountain biking trail provides a more rugged, off-road experience, with challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Together, these trails make Allegany County a diverse and exciting destination for bikers of all preferences and skill levels.
Road cycling is Mountain Maryland’s best kept secret! The region offers some spectacular paved roads that reveal some of the
most breathtaking hills and valleys in the mid-Atlantic and Appalachian regions. There are routes for all levels and preferences, based on season, elevation, and scenery. Be sure to swing by Wheelzup Adventures in Cumberland for all your biking and outdoor recreation needs, and to learn more about the best places to ride in Western Maryland!
Allegany County, Maryland, also offers a wide array of outdoor activities beyond biking. For water lovers, canoeing and kayaking on the Potomac River provide serene paddling experiences with stunning views. Rock climbing enthusiasts can tackle the challenges and crags at Rocky Gap State Park, while rail biking with Tracks and Yaks offers
a unique way to explore the region’s scenic landscapes as you pedal in an open air car along railroad tracks. When biking is done for the day, visitors can indulge in the Ice Cream Trail, sample local brews on the Mountain Maryland Tap and Pour Tour, or enjoy sweet treats on the Donut and Coffee Trail. Dining options abound in downtown Frostburg and downtown Cumberland, where a variety of restaurants and eateries cater to different tastes. Families will find plenty to enjoy as well, with attractions like the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offering charming train rides and the aviary at Rocky Gap State Park providing a delightful wildlife experience.
MdMountainSide.com
HIT THE DIRT AND THE ROAD!
OFF THE BIKE
A BIKING PARADISE IN VIRGINIA’S BLUE RIDGE
Between Franklin County, Roanoke County, Botetourt County, and the cities of Roanoke and Salem, Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers cyclists and bikers boundless exploration and a lifetime of memories. Whether you prefer rolling road rides or tough trail climbs, every kind of two-wheeled rider will find their own bit of biking paradise in this region.
RIDE AROUND THE ROANOKE REGION
Home to some of the best hikes in the U.S., Roanoke is also the perfect place to bring your bike!
Located in the middle of “Virginia’s Blue Ridge” , Roanoke offers an unparalleled biking experience with its diverse landscapes and extensive trail network. With a vibrant cycling community and a reputation for producing elite athletes, this region promises unforgettable rides for cyclists of all levels.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Carvins Cove is renowned for its extensive network of trails, catering to all skill levels with over 60 miles of singletrack. Explore Park provides fun routes through the forest and near the Roanoke River , perfect for both beginners and seasoned bikers. Mill Mountain Park features
challenging climbs and rewarding descents, all with stunning views of the city. For those seeking rugged backcountry adventures, the North Mountain and Arcadia areas of Jefferson National Forest in Botetourt County offer some of the toughest and most exhilarating trails in the region.
ROAD CYCLING AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY
The Blue Ridge Parkway and the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail offer world-class cycling routes in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its challenging terrain, has been a training ground for Olympians. This region is also home to Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24, America’s premier women’s cycling team, which has produced numerous Olympians and gold medal winners.
For casual, relaxing rides,
explore the Roanoke Valley Greenways and local parks like Waid Park and Jamison Mill Park
These areas offer scenic, easygoing paths perfect for leisurely biking and family outings. For all your cycling needs, visit Cardinal Bicycle, Roanoke Mountain Adventures, or Just the Right Gear, which provide everything from bike rentals to expert advice.
MORE TO EXPLORE
For those seeking adventure beyond biking, Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers a wealth of
experiences. Hike the Appalachian Trail’s VA Triple Crown, including Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs, for some of the region’s most breathtaking views. Paddle or tube along the Upper James River Water Trail in Botetourt County for a refreshing water adventure. Celebrate everything outdoors at the annual Roanoke GO Outside Festival, happening October 18-20, 2024. This signature outdoor event of the year includes equipment demos, live music, unique shows, and
more! With its expansion to two locations—Downtown Roanoke and Explore Park—there’s even more to discover this year.
Complete your visit with a trip to the Roanoke Star atop Mill Mountain, offering iconic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains—ideal for memorable selfies and scenic photos. After a ride in Mill Mountain Park, unwind with a visit to Big Lick Brewing Co. , Golden Cactus Brewery , or Tuco’s Taqueria in downtown Roanoke.
VisitVBR.com
ADVENTURE AROUND EVERY TURN IN FRANKLIN COUNTY
Calling all trail riders, road cyclists, and adventure seekers to Franklin County, Va. Explore an area rich in beautiful scenery and culture in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Get your adventure started at Waid Park, a 500-acre park featuring over 16 miles of trails. You’ll ride sections of technical singletrack, river crossings, wooden ramps, and rock gardens, plus you can test your abilities on a jump line, riding skills loop, and more. Along the way, you’ll encounter active farms and the Pigg River Blueway flowing through the park. You can even hop on a section of the Historic Old Carolina Road Trail, a roadway settlers used in the 1700s.
Then head out to Jamison Mill Park for an additional 300 acres and six miles of interconnected loop trails. Located on the sprawling Philpott Lake, you’ll have views for days, plus easy access to a quick cool down in the water. You can even stay at the campground, open from April through October,
for easy access to the trails.
If you’re looking for a quick jaunt, the 1.5-mile Maurice Turner Trail, in the charming town of Boones Mill, is the perfect escape into nature. Or, if road cycling is more your jam, the Franklin County Freewheelers Bicycle Club can help you find the best back roads around for picturesque views and challenging climbs. Franklin County hosted the 2023 USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championships in June 2023. Cyclists can ride the National Championship Course through the hills of western Franklin County and compare their times to the best in the world.
Head to Smith Mountain Lake for a mix of entertainment and recreation, from concerts at Coves Amphitheater and world-class fishing to lakefront lodging. Enjoy meals at Napoli Cowboy and Sago’s, and local spirits at Roosters Rise N Shine Distillery Visit Bridgewater Plaza for family fun, Twin Creeks Distillery for weekly old-time jams, and Anastasia’s Speakeasy for prohibitionthemed cocktails. For more information, visit VisitFranklinCountyVA.com
Mountain bikers and road cyclists will both love the City of Salem, VA, for its wide variety of biking options, not to mention endless après-ride fun.
The Blue Ridge Mountains that surround Salem are filled with awesome mountain biking trails. There are hundreds of miles of trails within minutes of downtown Salem, including Carvins Cove Recreation Area and Explore Park. A more leisurely option is the Roanoke River Greenway, a popular multiuse trail that connects Salem and Roanoke. There are also lots of peaceful back roads for road cyclists to enjoy a long ride through the countryside. Many riders consider it a bucket list item to ride America’s most famous scenic road, the Blue Ridge Parkway After a day of riding the trails, you’ll be ready for some refreshment. Raise a glass at Olde Salem Brewing and Parkway Brewing Company. These locally-owned breweries
serve great IPAs, pilsners, lagers and some of their own creative concoctions all in a fun, friendly atmosphere where riders are always welcome. The dining scene in Salem is just as diverse as the outdoor recreation options. Stroll down Main Street in Salem’s lovely downtown and you’ll find dozens of great dining choices. Sample southern comfort food at Gina’s Food With Flavor; Dine in style at Frankie Rowland’s Steakhouse; Savor great sandwiches and salads at Macado’s; And experience the wings and famous calzones at Mac and Bob’s, an institution in Salem for more than 40 years.
Salem is located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge and easily accessible from I-81 and Route 460. Extend your stay at the Lofts at Downtown Salem where they offer an indoor bike rack, wash area out back and have free loaner bikes for guests to use downtown. If you’re looking for a destination that offers endless fun in the great outdoors, plan an adventure at VisitSalemVA.com
SCENIC MOUNTAIN RIDES IN SALEM
A RIDE OF LIFETIME IN ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA
Offering scenic landscapes and rural charm, Rockingham County, Virginia, is a top destination for biking enthusiasts. As the state’s largest agricultural producer, it features picturesque farmlands and diverse terrains. Nearly one-third of the area is designated as National Park or National Forest, providing abundant natural beauty to explore.
Prepare for an epic journey of 300 miles with 22,000 feet of elevation gain and 25% unpaved surfaces on the Blue Ridge Hills & Hollows (BRHH) gravel bikepacking loop. This mixed-surface route connects eight county memorials around Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park (SNP) and showcases the finest dirt and gravel roads in the region. The memorials along the route honor the families and communities displaced during the park’s formation in the 1930s.
At HillsandHollows.org, riders can prepare for their trip with sample itineraries, find nearby bike and gear shops, learn about the best resupply and camping areas, and explore alternative routes. For example, the Hills & Hollows route can easily be combined with Skyline Drive, a scenic 105-mile stretch with an
elevation gain of 9,847 feet, featuring fantastic views and unforgettable climbs. The best bikes for this route are gravel bikes or road bikes with wider tire clearance. Mountain bikes are also suitable, though slower and without the need for suspension. Mole Hill Bikes has everything you need to make sure you’re ready to roll.
After a day of riding, Rockingham County offers fantastic fall festivals, including the Broadway Autumn Festival on September 14, Dayton Days Autumn Celebration on October 5, Massanutten Fall Festival on October 12, and Elkton Autumn Days from October 19-20. For refreshments, you can visit The Valley Pantry & Deli, Cave Hill Farms Brewery, and Elkton Brewing Co. Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting Back Home on the Farm, exploring Mulberry Hills Pumpkin Patch, and hiking in Shenandoah National Park
visitrockingham.com
TWO-WHEELED FUN IN FLUVANNA COUNTY, VA
Discover a hidden gem in Fluvanna County, located just outside of Charlottesville and about 45 minutes from Short Pump. Pleasant Grove Park is THE place for mountain bikers and adventurers to experience the best of Virginia’s countryside featuring 20 miles of challenging trails.
beside the Rivanna River, the 900-acre Pleasant Grove Park is a haven for biking fanatics. With over 20 miles of multi-use singletrack trails, this park caters to all skill levels, offering varying and thrilling terrain. Pleasant Grove is renowned for hosting the state mountain biking championships, cementing its status as a premier destination for riders. This year’s event will be held October 5 and 6.
Beyond the thrill of biking, Pleasant Grove provides an array of amenities that enhance the overall outdoor experience. The park’s extensive trail network not only supports biking but also hiking and horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore the varied habitats of the Piedmont area, bustling with flora and fauna. The Heritage Trail leads to the river, adding a scenic route for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
After an exhilarating ride, bikers can unwind at the park’s riverfront beach, rent kayaks from the livery at Pleasant Grove
Park or enjoy the Sandy Beach riverfront area near the renovated Palmyra Boat Landing. The park also features a fantastic dog park for your four-legged friends! With its combination of challenging trails, scenic beauty, and additional recreational activities, Pleasant Grove Park is a must-visit for mountain bikers looking to explore the heart of Fluvanna County.
Adding to the allure of Fluvanna County, visitors can also easily explore a small part of the 76 Bike Trail, or the TransAmerica Trail, which spans from the coast of Oregon to Yorktown, Virginia!
In addition to outdoor activities, Fluvanna boasts two wineries that are part of the Wine Region of the Year, numerous farm stands, a family-owned orchard, and an alpaca farm, all adding to its rural charm. The local culinary scene is highlighted by Local Eats, a unique restaurant offering both short-order and gourmet vegan options, as well as a market featuring locally-made products.
Nestled
A GEM ON THE RIVANNA
HILLS AND HOLLOWS
MILES OF TRAILS IN LAUREL HIGHLANDS,
PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania, is a top biking destination with a diverse mix of trails and scenic routes. It offers everything from challenging singletracks to picturesque rail trails like the Great Allegheny Passage. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a casual cyclist, the Laurel Highlands delivers an unforgettable biking experience.
THE BEST IN THE U.S
Nearly 100 miles of the 150mile Great Allegheny Passage traverse the Laurel Highlands, making it a central feature of this celebrated trail. Stretching from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, the Great Allegheny Passage was the first trail inducted into the Rails-to-Trails Hall of Fame and is frequently recognized as one of America’s top recreational trails by USA Today readers.
As you ride along this scenic route, you’ll encounter several notable landmarks, including the iconic Ohiopyle Low and High Bridges, which offer stunning views and photo opportunities. The impressive Salisbury Viaduct provides breathtaking perspectives of the surrounding
landscape, while the intriguing Big Savage Tunnel adds a touch of adventure to your journey. Cyclists will also cross the Eastern Continental Divide and pass under the Connellsville Gateway Arch , each adding unique and memorable highlights to an already exceptional biking experience.
RIP THROUGH THE TRAILS
Laurel Highlands offers thrilling mountain biking experiences, particularly in Ohiopyle State Park and on the Quemahoning Trail. Ohiopyle is situated at the bottom of one of Pennsylvania’s deepest valleys, so riding here typically involves a challenging climb followed by a rewarding descent. Over the years, locals have discovered some excellent loops
that start and end in town, utilizing trails like Sugarloaf, Baughman, and McCune, all located to the east. Being a State Park, there are also quite a few areas for camping and additional outdoor activities.
The Quemahoning (Que) Trail provides a diverse terrain with challenging features and stunning views, ideal for those seeking an adventurous ride. This 16-mile loop around the Quemahoning Reservoir includes multiple access points, offering flexibility for different riding experiences. Starting counterclockwise, riders will encounter easier terrain for a more beginner-friendly out-andback route. Conversely, starting clockwise leads into technical intermediate sections with rocky
areas, descents, and climbs. Both options promise exhilarating mountain biking adventures in the heart of the Laurel Highlands.
AN AREA FOR ADVENTURE
In Laurel Highlands, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities beyond mountain biking. The area is renowned for whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, offering exciting water adventures. Hiking and fishing opportunities abound, along with sporting clays and golf for those seeking a different type of challenge. Notable outfitters such as Laurel Highlands River Tours & Outdoor Center, Ohiopyle Trading Post & River Tours, White Water
Adventurers, and Wilderness Voyageurs provide excellent gear and guided experiences to enhance your outdoor activities. When you’re done pedaling, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Sample local brews at Trailhead Brewing Co., Yough River Brewing, Bloom Brew, and Forbes Trail Brewing, or explore cultural sites like the Flight 93 National Memorial and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater Families can also find fun at Living Treasures Animal Park, Caddie Shak, and Laurel Caverns. For a full range of experiences, don’t miss Seven Springs Mountain Resort, which offers year-round attractions and activities.
GOLaurelHighlands.com
ALEX BYERS/GO LAUREL HIGHLANDS
ERIC KNOPSNYDER/GO LAUREL HIGHLANDS
ERIC KNOPSNYDER/GO LAUREL HIGHLANDS
TOP VIRGINIA STATE PARKS FOR BIKERS OF ALL AGES
When it comes to planning your next biking adventure, look no further than the hundreds of miles of trails snaking through the 43 Virginia State Parks. Home to some of the best views and waterways in Virginia, and with trails for all ages and skill levels, there’s no better way to take it all in than a day spent on your twowheeled rig.
FIND YOUR FLOW
Want to try an all-day or multiday excursion? Douthat State Park, in the scenic Allegheny Mountains, has over 40 miles of multi-use trails for biking that range from easy to more challenging difficulties. The park’s picturesque beauty and plentiful camping options make itideal for a multi-day bikepacking getaway. If you’re in the mood for a shorter day trip, traverse 31 miles on High Bridge Trail State Park. Take in the views from High Bridge, a historic landmark, as you bike 2,400 feet across the Appomattox River, flowing 125 feet below. Looking to ride some sweet single track and scenic routes? Pocahontas State Park has more than 70 miles of directional mountain bike and multi-use trails.
This park has all the flow and obstacles you could want out of a challenging course, including hand cycle-friendly trails. Be sure to check out the newest trails at the Swift Creek Trail System in the park. More scenic trails can be found at Sky Meadows State Park, with 9-miles of easy to difficult paths to explore.
RIP THEN TAKE A DIP
Head to one of the original six VA State Parks to explore more than 17 miles of multi-use trails. At Hungry Mother State Park in Marion, riders can explore a 3 mile portion of the new Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System before taking a dip in the expansive 108acre lake. New River Trail State Park is also an excellent spot for a quick float after a ride. This 57-mile linear park follows an abandoned
railroad right-of-way and parallels the historic New River. Take an easy cruise on the trail, or for more adventure, check out the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. Or, journey over to the coast, where False Cape State Park offers roughly 15 miles of multi-use trails. At this park, you are truly roughing it, as it is only accessible by foot, bike or paddle craft, so water, sunscreen and insect repellent are highly recommended!
A RIDE TO
The best part about these parks? All that offer biking, also offer hiking and hold nature and history programs throughout the year! From guided walks and canoe trips to fossil hunts and living history demonstrations, there are exciting and informative programs to suit everyone. Programs and exhibits teach guests about those who
shaped our culture and how our world works. With 43 state parks dotting the Virginia landscape from the Atlantic Ocean to the Appalachian Mountains, you’re sure to find one that fits your sense of adventure. Pump up your tires, grab your helmet, and head out to a Virginia State Park today.
VirginiaStateParks.gov
FIND YOUR ROUTE IN FREDERICK COUNTY, MD
From rustic mountain trails to pristine paved roads, Frederick County, Maryland is the perfect place for a bike ride. Situated just an hour outside of Washington D.C. and Baltimore, you have access to urban luxuries, with greater opportunity for outdoor adventure. So load up your enduro ripper, gravel grinder, or road racer and head to the middle of Maryland for a bike trip you’ll never forget.
Stay close to town and hop on the Frederick History Bicycle Loop, which is ideal for leisurely and family-oriented rides. On this loop you will discover historic sites around the town of Frederick and its historic district, such as the Francis Scott Key Monument and various Civil War sites. For a longer ride that road and touring cyclists will delight in, the Covered Bridges Tour is one of the best ways to explore the county. On this tour, riders can see all three of Frederick’s historic covered bridges, in all their wooden glory. Head into the wilderness on the C&O Canal National Historical Park and discover the region’s natural and historic heritage. The 184.5-mile towpath within the park conveniently passes through Frederick County and offers cyclists a beautiful route with historical structures, lockhouses, aqueducts, and other remnants of the canal’s past along the way. For an even grittier Frederick experience, tackle the rocky trails at Frederick Watershed
The “Shed” trails are quite technical, and make for a great experience for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers.
Service your bike and grab a drink! At Gravel & Grind in downtown Frederick, you can enjoy a caffeinated beverage while your bike is being tuned to perfection. Or get your two-wheeler serviced at Wheel Base, and hop on one of their local group rides. If you need a bike, or a lift, head to River & Trail Outfitters for rental and shuttle services.
After a day in the saddle, wind down at one of the many wineries, breweries, and distilleries in the Maryland countryside, or on downtown streets. Grab some dinner from an eclectic choice of restaurants, take the kids for a homemade ice cream from South Mountain Creamery, and get ready to do it all again tomorrow!
VisitFrederick.org
CYCLE THE COUNTRY ROADS OF HARDY COUNTY,
WV
Experience cycling on Hardy County’s country roads! Climb over mountains and wander through river valleys or explore our gravel roads and backcountry trails where world-class cyclists and casual riders come to ‘test their limits and fine tune their skills’.
PEDAL, PLAY, AND STAY
Check out the Lee Ranger District of the George Washington National Forest. This scenic area is crisscrossed by hiking and cycling trails, with rustic camping sites located along many routes. Detailed maps for cycling, hiking, and camping can be found on their website to help guide you through the forest.
Lost River Trails Coalition and IMBA will begin construction this fall on a universally designed mountain bike trail system in Lost River State Park. In the meantime, mark your calendar for the Lost River Classic gravel bike race in August and the Lost River Trail Run in May, or join the Coalition’s Trail Days to help repair the existing mountain bike and hiking trails in the Park. Head to their Facebook page for dates and more information - @lostrivertrailscoalition
Just two hours from the DC Metro
area, the Lost River region’s countryside is a haven for biking enthusiasts. Lost River Barn, also known as Raw Talent Ranch, has undergone renovation and is maintaining the legacy of the esteemed cycling center. Contact them for lodging and for information about cycling routes. For additional cross-county cycling maps check out VisitHardy.com.
Hardy County offers a variety of accommodations, from vacation cabins and inns to hotels, motels, and campgrounds, all conveniently located near most cycling routes. You’ll also find restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby, making it easy to refuel and relax after a day on the trails or on the roads.
So, come for the day but plan to stay the night! There’s always another ride for the next day.
A BICYCLING BASECAMP IN CHARLOTTESVILLE & ALBEMARLE
COUNTY, VA
At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rural routes, gravel roads, and city trails beckon for bike riders. With the mountains to the west, and farms and orchards dotted throughout, Charlottesville and Albemarle County provide the perfect scenic backdrop for a two-wheeled cruise.
FIND YOUR FLOW
Albemarle County has a little something for all skill levels!
Beginner and intermediate mountain bikers will love riding at Preddy Creek Park, home to some of the most fun and flowing trails around. Newbies and experts alike can delight in the diverse loops and varying difficulty at Walnut Creek Park, where you can cool off in the lake after a warm summer ride.
For some flow a little closer to the city of Charlottesville, head to Heyward Community Forest Local trail groups are hard at work to build and maintain these
singletrack trails for everyone to enjoy. The Rivanna Trail circumnavigates the city for a total of 21 miles, making it easily accessible from most areas of town. Use this trail system to get some miles on your legs, and relax in the Rivanna River to recharge. The Annual Loop de’Ville Festival takes place on the Rivanna Trail every September during National Public Lands Day. This free event, on Saturday, September 28th, offers three speed-based group rides, guided hikes and trail runs, and a free outdoor concert with local food and craft beverages, hosted at the Rivanna River Company.
SCENIC ROUTES AND GUIDED TOURS
The Western Albemarle Scenic Tour offers a 28-mile loop through Albemarle County’s picturesque landscapes. The route, traversing the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, winds through farms, orchards, wineries, and parks along quiet country roads. Riders will encounter undulating terrain, cozy cafes, markets, and plenty of wineries and breweries along the way. Lodging options range from luxurious stays to a nature-focused experience at Misty Mountain Camp Resort
Additional routes and shortcuts are available, including the Fox Mountain Gravel Route for some
extra off-road miles.
The Western Albemarle Scenic Tour highlights some of Albemarle County’s most picturesque sights, but it’s just one of many fantastic rides in the area. For more inspiration, explore the Trails & Outdoor Routes page on visitcharlottesville.org, where you’ll find a variety of biking, hiking, and paddling opportunities. Ride scenic gravel paths, explore quiet backroads, and discover new parks using this webpage as your guide. Or, consider taking a guided tour with Blue Ridge Bicycle Tours, renting a bike from Blue Ridge Cyclery, or visiting local gear shops like High Tor Gear Exchange, a locally-owned store that supports a circular economy.
For a great post-ride libation, unwind at one of the 40+ wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail , or at one of the many local breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Great food options are plentiful throughout the area and many are very close to trail systems. From luxurious resorts, your favorite chain hotels, cozy inns and B&Bs, plus a selection of vacation rentals, cabins, and cottages, you’ll be sure to find a place to call home for the night. Plan your stay today at VisitCharlottesville.org
BONUS ADVENTURES
FALL IN LOVE WITH BIKING IN DAMASCUS, VA
Looking for an Autumn biking weekend getaway to the mountains? Nestled in the heart of Southwest Virginia, Damascus is the ultimate escape for families, friends, and folks from all over. Damascus, known as Trail Town, USA, is home to 11 nationally and regionally known recreation trails.
The most famous activity in Damascus is biking the Virginia Creeper Trail. Book a shuttle with Adventure Damascus Bicycles & Sundog Outfitter to catch a ride to the top of the Virginia Creeper Trail. From there, cruise a leisurely 17 miles downhill through the beautiful flora & fauna of the Jefferson National Forest to Damascus. Adventure Damascus Bicycles & Sundog Outfitter offers bike rentals along with their shuttles, as well as the largest selection of souvenirs on the trail. One of the most famous rail-trails in the United States, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers unparalleled views of the surrounding forest and truly comes to life during the spring season. It’s family-friendly and ideal for beginners. Don’t forget to stop into Hellbender’s Café on your way down the trail to grab some locally smoked BBQ, ice cream, and refreshments!
Another popular bike route is the TransVA Bike Route, which runs from DC to Damascus and crosses 565 miles of mostly
unpaved country and forest roads, double track and rail trails. Discover Virginia’s best backcountry riding on this gravel bikepacking route, designed for multiday trips and featuring challenging climbs in the state’s scenic mountains, national forests, and public lands.
While in Damascus, explore the town and stay at No. 112 East Laurel, a charming 1886 rental home in the heart of downtown. This updated historic property offers easy walking and biking access to all local sights. Explore Virginia’s highest peaks at Mount Rogers, Grayson Highlands, and Whitetop Mountain for fresh air and more outdoor adventures. Stop by Damascus Outfitters on the Appalachian Trail in downtown for tips, trail maps, gear, and local expertise.
Most importantly – don’t delay in booking your weekend getaway. Saturdays on the Virginia Creeper Trail are in high demand in the fall. No matter what, you’re sure to find an adventure around every turn in Damascus, Virginia.
PEDAL THROUGH PARKERSBURG, WV
With over 225 miles of singletrack trails and 72 miles of rail-trail, Greater Parkersburg is a paradise for mountain biking and cycling enthusiasts. Both experienced and novice riders will find trails to suit their skill levels, thanks to the diverse terrain in the state parks.
The North Bend Rail Trail, managed by West Virginia State Parks, is a 72-mile multi-use trail stretching from I-77 near Parkersburg to Wolf Summit in Harrison County. Part of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail, it features 13 tunnels and 36 bridges. The scenic route passes through natural areas, farmland, and rural communities, with points of interest like the Old Stone House, the former Stage Coach Inn at Pennsboro, marble and handblown glass factories, and numerous craft
markets and festivals.
Twelve miles east of Parkersburg lies Mountwood Park, one of the most acclaimed single-park trail systems in the eastern US. Mountain bikers can explore over thirty miles of diverse and flowing singletrack built to IMBA standards, offering numerous possibilities for rides of varying lengths and difficulties.
To cool down after a ride, try Kayaking at North Bend State Park, Mountwood Park, or along the Ohio River Trail. Wet your whistle at Parkersburg Brewing, or Wine Down on Market in downtown Parkersburg. Just down the road is Discovery World on Market, where kids can blow off some steam and exercise curiosity.
GreaterParkersburg.com
CRUISE THROUGH THE
COUNTRYSIDE IN THURMONT, MD
Visit one of Maryland’s best small towns, a serene escape known as the “Gateway to the Mountains.” Just an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, this charming city offers cyclists rides that they will never forget.
Take in the natural beauty of the countryside on a bike tour to three historic covered bridges. All three bridges—Utica, Loy’s Station, and Roddy Road—are listed on the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places, and are located within twelve miles of each other. These picturesque covered bridges span scenic streams, and beyond their aesthetic appeal, they are structurally fascinating, as each bridge features a unique truss system, crucial for their stability.
Thurmont is also home to the Civil War Century Ride every September, where you can tackle the full 100-mile route, enjoy mid-length distances, or relax on the 25-mile Covered Bridge Quarter Century. No matter which you choose, you’ll cycle through some of the most beautiful countryside east of the Mississippi.
Enjoy hiking for all levels at Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park, swim at Cunningham Falls, and visit local wineries, including Maryland’s only winery, brewery, and distillery, plus award-winning BBQ at Bollinger’s Uncle Dirty’s Brewery and 600+ exotic animals at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
ThurmontMainstreet.com
THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL AND MORE!
MICHAEL B. WRIGHT
MICHAEL B. WRIGHT
MICHAEL B. WRIGHT
Trailblazing Tots
Five Kid-Friendly Fall Hikes in the Southeast
BY LAUREN STEPP
FROM POOPY DIAPERS TO teary - eyed tantrums, hiking with kids can require extra effort and patience. But bonding with your tiny explorer in the great outdoors can also be lots of fun. That’s why we’ve rounded up five tyke-tastic trails. Short, accessible, and engaging, these paths are perfect for pintsized adventurers to tackle when the temps start to drop and the leaves change.
Talking Tree Trail
Hendersonville, North Carolina
Tulip poplars aren’t known to be chatty. Neither are bitternut hickories. But if you travel to Holmes Educational State Forest in Hendersonville, N.C., you’ll find a gregarious grove along the Talking Tree Trail.
An easy, half-mile jaunt, the footpath features seven kiosks where whippersnappers can press a button and listen to a chipper, prerecorded message about a different tree species.
“I'm a white oak,” one kiosk trills.
“Did you know my relatives helped America win its independence from England? The American colonists seasoned and used my wood for their ships because, when I'm older, my wood is watertight and very durable.”
Susan Fay, supervisor of the 235-acre state forest, says this stand of lecturing lumber has been around since the 1980s and gives children the chance to learn about forestry in, well, a forest. There’s also a treehouse-style Forestry Center with audio-visual exhibits on-site, should your aspiring arborist want to dive deeper into woodland ecology.
“It’s a great way to get kids to connect with the outdoors,” says Fay. “Our hope is that they’ll be able to look back as adults and remember how much fun they had.”
Beartown Boardwalk Renick, West Virginia
Sure, Disney World is great. But if you want to skip the long lines and overpriced soft serve, head to
Located on the summit of Droop Mountain in northern Greenbrier County, this 110-acre nature area might just be the most magical place in West Virginia. That’s thanks to the mind-bogglingly big boulders and deep, dark crevices you’ll find there.
Geologists say these unique rock formations were carved from sandstone hundreds of millions of years ago during the Pennsylvanian Period. Today, visitors of all ages can safely experience their grandeur from a half-mile-long boardwalk that meanders through, up, and over the chasms and cliffs.
According to Mark Davis, a West Virginia resident who often visits the park with his sixyear-old daughter, Olympia, the hike is super accessible and awe-inspiring.
“The size of the rocks is an impressive feature for kids,” he notes. “They are certainly larger than any rocks we typically find around our urban area, and to have them all in one place makes it like … a castle or a fairyland.”
Beartown State Park instead.
Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail
Afton, Virginia
If your kiddo grumbles and groans at the mere mention of a weekend hike, the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail may change their tune.
Clocking in at about three miles (exact mileage depends on whether you start at the east or west trailhead), this relatively flat walk leads to the Blue Ridge Tunnel, an underground passageway constructed in the 1850s. Since dynamite wasn’t invented until 1867, laborers had no choice but to chisel through the solid granite, using hand drills and black powder. All in all, the project took nearly eight years.
Though once a vital corridor between the Shenandoah Valley and the rest of Virginia, the tunnel was decommissioned in 1944. Seventy-six years later, in the fall of 2020, it was opened to pedestrians and bikers.
Jerry West, director of Nelson County Parks and Recreation, says the tunnel has become a popular spot for young families and school groups. Kids love the novelty of using flashlights to hunt for salamanders and crawfish. Meanwhile, parents love the stroller-friendly path and quick accessibility from either Afton or Waynesboro.
20+ MILES of challenging singletrack mountain biking trails
PLEASANT GROVE PARK
Home of the 2024 Virginia State MTB Marathon Championship Race on October 5 & 6
PHOTO BY JACK LOONEY
Photo by Laura Carson
Green Trail at Conestee Nature Preserve
Greenville, South Carolina
Let’s face it: When you’re hiking with young children, getting them to the trailhead is half the battle. That’s what makes Conestee Nature Preserve so appealing.
“The biggest advantage we have over other hikes in the area is our accessibility,” says Josh Zalabak, the organization’s development officer. “We’re only six miles from downtown Greenville.”
But convenience isn’t the only reason families flock to Conestee. As a 640-acre nonprofit-owned and operated wildlife sanctuary, this property is teeming with painted turtles, river otters, green tree frogs, and other critters that can be spotted from several miles of wellmaintained trails.
If you want to see prothonotary warblers and great blue herons with your burgeoning birder, Zalabak suggests exploring the 1.5-mile Green Trail. “The Green Trail offers different views of the wetlands,” he says. Plus, there are several ways of hopping off the footpath and returning to your car, should your
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BRING YOUR TOTS TO THE WETLANDS AT CONESTEE NATURE PRESERVE. PHOTO COURTESY OF CONESTEE NATURE PRESERVE
toddler get fussy.
Conestee is also in the process of building a nature playscape—an acre-sized recreation area that replaces traditional playground equipment with natural amenities like boulders, creeks, and logs.
“The idea is to encourage kids to play outside and use their creativity,” Zalaback says, noting the space should be open sometime this fall. “Kids will truly be able to choose their own adventure.”
Canyon Loop Trail
Lumpkin, Georgia
glimpse these geological oddities, Assistant Park Manager Reba Bolton suggests hiking the Canyon Loop Trail.
Though this trail is on the longer side (about 2.2 miles), there’s plenty to keep your rugrats entertained. You can play a game of “I Spy,” looking for the 43 different colors of sand identified in the park. Or keep your eyes peeled for abandoned cars and remnants of an old homestead.
Walking the Canyon Loop Trail offers plenty of teachable moments, too. If your kiddos are old enough, you can explain that the dramatic gullies began forming in the 1800s when farmers cut down trees and tilled the soil. In the centuries since, water has shaped the landscape into what they see today.
Of course, if you’re trekking with your toddler, it might be more ageappropriate to look for the plumleaf azalea—a very rare plant species that calls this rough terrain home.
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Finding Paradise
THAT FEELING—WHEN THE WORLD is beneath me and my feet tingle with joy anticipating the water—is what I live for.
My younger brother and I were on our way to Paradise Falls. An hour or so outside of Asheville, Paradise Falls is one of my favorite adventure spots. The beauty of the waterfall excites most people when they arrive, but I am a teenage thrillseeker who also wants to actively participate in the stunning scenery. To the left of the falls was a giant 40-foot granite cliff and a deep pool. It was the perfect spot for a cliff jump.
We parked the car along the side of the road and began hiking for about a mile along a steep trail down to Wolf Creek. We fumbled our way across streams and up steep passages. The deeper we pushed into the woods, the calmer it became. The sound of the highway faded, replaced by wind in the trees and birdsong.
Soon Paradise Falls appeared through the trees. We had to buttslide down a steep, muddy slope to reach the creek. At the bottom, we got our first full view of Paradise Falls and the monstrous cliff beside it. Finn, my 10-year-old brother, locked up, frozen in fear.
I knew that feeling. The first time I jumped off the cliff beside Paradise Falls was the scariest. I followed a winding trail up the side of the cliff until I came to a rock wall. A frayed rope dangled off the slab. I took a breath and gripped the rope. I balanced my feet on the wall, leaned back, entrusting all my weight to the worn rope, and began to climb. Step by step, I walked up the granite wall. My face was towards the sky, and with every step I felt closer to the clouds.
The climb may have been more dangerous than the actual jump. At the top of the climb was a smooth,
BY RIVER HARLAN
sloping granite dome that drops near vertically to the deep water 40 feet below. When I reached the top, I could feel the knot in my stomach tighten, knowing the drop I was about to feel. I had never been more excited. Compared to this, other outdoor activities seemed boring. Hiking got old and the views all became the same. This cliff was just what I was waiting for.
I shuffled my feet closer to the edge. Just as I prepared myself to take a step off the rock, I looked down at the water. Then I jumped and screamed at the same time. I floated for a full second, the water below rushed toward me. I heard the wind in my ears as I fell. My feet felt the water first, and then I was deep underwater. Even in summer, the deep pool of the mountain river was shockingly cold. I popped to the surface. I had never felt more alive.
Now I was taking my little brother to Paradise. But as soon as we arrived at the falls, something felt off with him. So I became a brother mindreader and picked up on the cues. Finally, it struck me: he wanted to be brave, but he was also deathly afraid.
“You ready, Finn?” I said, trying to test my mind reading powers.
“Yeah,” he replied flatly.
“Let’s go, then.”
Finn’s pace was unusually slow as we ascended the side trail up the cliff.
”How are you doing?” I asked.
“Okay,” he said softly. I could barely hear his response over the rumble of the waterfall.
He wasn’t ready—I could tell. When we got to the top, he peeked over the edge and finally spoke his mind.
“I’m scared,” he said.
“That’s normal. Just try to relax.”
I could feel his suffering. I could also sense his desire to jump. Something was still holding him back.
What could I say to motivate him?
Maybe tapping into memories and experiences we had together would inspire him to push past his limits.
I remembered the day he was born. He had arrived five weeks early, shriveled and tiny. We joked later that he was over-eager to get out and explore the world. For a couple of weeks, Finn stayed in the NICU on airway support, needles in his arms and feet. He was tough from the moment he arrived.
I thought about emphasizing that bravery had been in his blood from the beginning. But I couldn’t find the words.
I looked Finn in the eyes. I had to say something. Time was running out before Finn lost the little motivation he had.
So I said the first thing that popped into my mind, the most ungraceful and unhelpful thing a 16-year-old could say to his little brother: “Don’t be a wimp.”
I instantly regretted it. I had always been rough on my little brother—that was my form of love.
What I really wanted him to know was that I would always have his back.
He looked at me and nodded his head. At that moment, I could feel Finn understanding, looking past my poor words of encouragement, and deeper into my heart.
Turning back towards the jump, he took another deep breath. He was ready now. His feet left the sunwarmed rock. Then, for a moment, he was weightless. He seemed to float in the air for eternity. Finally, he splashed into the water below. As soon as he popped up, he unleashed a shout of joy and relief that echoed off the cliff walls and overpowered even the tumbling water of the falls beside him.
I had never felt someone else’s experience so intensely. I had felt everything he went through on the rock. When he walked out to the edge, I felt the warmth of the granite beneath my feet. I felt his fear, his weightlessness, and his joy. Finn had taken a big leap, and so had I.
OUTSIDE RICHMOND
With mountain biking and camping at Pocahontas State Park, plus famous historic sites, a road trip stop in and around Virginia’s capital city offers a fun break from the I-95 grind.
BY MIKE BEZEMEK
WE ROLLED INTO POCAHONTAS State Park on a Sunday evening in late July. The quiet woods and rolling hills outside Richmond offered a welcome contrast to a hectic drive. We’d spent most of the day towing our camper in the right lane, while every third vehicle on busy I-95 somehow managed to cut us off. Speeding cars whipped around semis. Oblivious drivers hurtled in from onramps. The most impatient motorists floored it to pass us, swerved directly in front, slammed on their brakes, and veered off at the next exit.
“I think I almost sprained my ankle from reacting to traffic,” I joked with my wife, as the harrowing ordeal came to an end. We’d reached our first campground on a monthlong summer road trip.
After my wife and I bought our first travel trailer, it changed our road trips in several ways. When we used to tent camp, we usually skipped past stifling cities on long drives, aiming for cooler temps and higher elevations. But once we were towing a 17-foot fiberglass Casita, we moved slower. Our cruising speed was around 60-65 mph, and we stopped more often. Plus, we added time for packing, hitching, checking, unhitching, leveling, and setting-up. We soon decided that about 300 miles was the most we wanted to drive in a day. Often, we
preferred about half that on calmer rural roads.
But to reach some distant destinations, it was harder to avoid interstates and cities. Luckily, we now had an air-conditioned bedroom-on-wheels for keeping cool. So the goal became figuring out which metros we wanted to visit along the way. While planning stops on this trip north from our home on the Coastal Plain, I recalled a tip I’d gotten during a recent trail chat. Last spring, I was riding the incredibly fun Browns Creek Bike Park in Elizabethtown, N.C. A friendly construction worker, in town for a job, recommended a similar bike park outside his hometown of Richmond. An online search suggested that good things were happening within the 8,000 acres of Virginia’s largest state park, where we ended up staying for a few nights.
Pocahontas State Park MTB Trails
We started our ride with cool temps early the next morning. Our hope was to beat the weather, with a forecasted high in the mid-90s and a likely chance of afternoon thunderstorms. One nice thing about camping here is that you can bike or hike right from your campsite. First, we followed a series of multiuse gravel paths
through hills to the park’s central area, surrounding a large swimming complex. Another nearby highlight is the interesting CCC Museum. Exhibits and artifacts tell the story of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which helped build the park during the 1940s. Downhill from the central area, at the northern end of Swift Creek Lake, is the trailhead for the newer bike trails.
Pocahontas State Park has over 50 miles of trails for a variety of uses, plus a roughly equal amount of unpaved fire roads that can also be explored. About 10 of the trail miles are for hiking only, while the remaining mileage is mostly multiuse. About 14 of those, south of Beach Road, allow horseback riding. Meanwhile, there are three different mountain bike areas. The Morgan MTB Trails were built first, in the 1990s, and they offer 9.4 miles
of tight turns over roots and rocks. The Lakeview MTB Trails were created next. These 9.5 miles are more like backcountry forest riding, less twisty but still rugged, passing through rolling terrain atop handbuilt surfaces around the south side of Swift Creek Lake.
First opened in 2015, the flowy Swift Creek MTB Trails are what people are now talking about. These days, the machine-built system has expanded to over 20 miles with an equal number of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. The goal at Swift Creek was to create a trail system that would appeal to both learning and experienced riders. We had planned to ride for just two or three hours max. Five hours later, my wife and I were in complete agreement. The trail managers—a mix of part-time staff and volunteers
(ABOVE) SWIFT CREEK TRAILS. PHOTO BY INA SEETHALER (MAIN) PADDLING IN SWIFT CREEK LAKE, AT POCAHONTAS STATE PARK. PHOTO BY MIKE BEZEMEK
coordinated by Friends of Pocahontas State Park—more than succeeded.
One side of the beginner Blueberry Hill loop led us to a hub where several trails converge. There we met several local riders with whom we'd chat throughout the day. In a few places, educational signs provided tips for riding rollers and berms, including a short pump track. We started on green trails like the mellow Gateway I & II and fun Bell Lap. My wife was having a blast, and her confidence was rising. Next, we moved on to blue trails like Blue Jay Way and Corkscrew. Everywhere we rode, it was nothing but speedy lines, buttery curves, and fun jumps. When my wife took a break, I checked out the black trails like Millstone and Moonshine.
“This is one of my favorite bike parks,” declared my wife, as we rode back to camp. In other words, we’d be stopping here again.
As we re-crossed the bridge, we saw two kayakers exploring the lake. Meanwhile, billowing clouds were filling the sky. We made it back to camp at 2pm and cranked up the camper AC to cool down during lunch. An hour later, a massive rainstorm hit that would close the trails for the rest of our stay. Luckily, there was plenty else to do around the area.
Out and About Around Richmond
After our mountain biking day, we were definitely going out. We started at a nearby brewery, Steam Bell Beer Works. My wife had a refreshing Blood Orange Seltzer, while I went with a solid Hop and Stomp Hazy IPA. Then we spoiled ourselves with her favorite type of food, a great meal at Pakwaan Indian Cuisine.
Another evening, we walked the paths at Belle Island in the James River, which is reached via a walking bridge. There was clearly more to do in Richmond, including mountain biking at the urban James River Park, which we’d have to check out next time. For dinner that night, we stayed closer to camp with a solid meal at El Caporal Mexican Restaurant.
“This salsa is awesome,” I told our young server.
She’d admitted to being
overwhelmed by her first week on the job, so we were trying to cheer her up. She nodded eagerly, and then thought about it further.
“But I really only like it when I’m eating it. Not when I’m carrying it around.”
“I can understand that,” I said, dipping another chip.
Colonial National Historical Park
On our last full day in town, we took a trip out to Colonial National Historical Park. It’s located on the Virginia Peninsula, which extends east from Richmond into Chesapeake Bay. The highlight is Historic Jamestowne, the site of the first surviving English colony in the U.S.
A little over an hour’s drive led us to the NPS visitor center, which comanages the waterfront archeological park along with Preservation Virginia. It’s important to note that Historic Jamestown is different from the adjacent Jamestowne Settlement, which is a state-managed living history museum with a recreated townsite populated by actors in period dress.
We opted for the authentic site, Historic Jamestown, which includes walking paths through original ruins, recreated structures, and restored buildings like the redbrick Jamestown Church. The fascinating Voorhees Archaearium is an onsite archeology museum that displays excavated artifacts and exhibits about the settlement.
Established in 1607, Jamestown would become infamous for its early record of conflict, death, and starvation. Salvation for the precarious settlement would seemingly come from a young Powhatan girl nicknamed Pocahontas. She became a legendary figure in American history for allegedly saving English captain John Smith from execution, plus repeatedly delivering food to the malnourished colonists. Later she married English entrepreneur John Rolfe, who cultivated Virginia’s first cash crop, a sweet strain of tobacco that led to over two centuries of rampant plantation slavery.
Another highlight is a five-mile loop drive around Jamestown Island
with a short trail to a waterfront point. The drive and hike offer views of a swampy landscape that, in hindsight, was a terrible choice for settlement. These buggy and soggy lands were hard to farm and surrounded by brackish waters.
From Jamestown, we drove the 23-mile Colonial Parkway through wetlands and forests to visit two other popular sites. The first was Colonial Williamsburg. This vast living history district is found inland within the small modern city of Williamsburg. Operated by a private foundation, hundreds of buildings from the 17th through 19th centuries have been restored or recreated, with costumed reenactors running tourist shops and providing period demonstrations.
We tend to prefer historic ruins and outdoor museums to reenactment sites, so we went with a suggestion from a friendly local. A pricy ticket gets you inside the buildings, but you can walk outside through the historic district for free. Strolling a few miles around town was definitely enough for us. That said, we could tell they do a fine job here,
especially for kids.
Our third stop in the national historic park was Yorktown Battlefield, an NPS unit next to the York River at the eastern end of Colonial Parkway. This is the location of the 1781 Siege of Yorktown, where George Washington and the Continental Army secured a decisive victory against the British during the American Revolution. In addition to a small museum, a driving loop leads through the battlefield. Due to time, we decided to skip the nearby state-managed American Revolution Museum, which combines indoor and outdoor history exhibits with reenactment zones. It does sound interesting, and entry is available as a combo ticket with Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestowne Settlement.
As we drove back to camp, we did our normal recap of what we’d seen. We’d long wanted to see these U.S. historic landmarks. That box was ticked. Now we were excited about our next stop in the mountains. But the rolling hills of Pocahontas State Park would be at the top of our minds the next time we drove north on I-95.
Roanoke, VA - October 18-20
Roanoke, VA - October 18-20
In the Blue Ridge Outdoors In the Blue Ridge Outdoors “Top Adventure Town” “Top Adventure Town”
TIED UP IN KNOTS
BY GRAHAM AVERILL
I AM A TERRIBLE FATHER. I’LL even take that a step further and say I’m a terrible man in general. My bro status should be revoked. Take my truck that’s so big I’m obviously compensating for something away from me. Shave my beard. I’m a fraud. Because I can’t tie knots. It feels good to get that off my chest. My name is Graham Averill, I’m a 48-year-old man who has made a career in the adventure sports industry, and I cannot tie knots. My lack of knot-tying abilities has been an issue since I was a young child. My father, an engineer who loved fishing and strapping random objects to the top of vehicles, tried to teach me a variety of knots for years, but I could never grasp any of them. I remember even getting frustrated when I had to learn how to tie my shoes in kindergarten. I broke down and asked, “Why can’t I just wear loafers?!”
Fast forward 40 or so years, and now I’m a middle-aged man who is prone to wearing slide-on shoes and avoiding situations where knots are necessary. My inability to tie two pieces of rope together has kept me from pursuing activities like yachting and lead climbing El Cap. But I’ve managed to fly under the radar thus far, successfully avoiding sailing and situations where one’s knot-tying ability could mean the difference between life and death. I’ve muddled through day-to-day life, operating under a single principle: “If you can’t tie a knot, tie a lot.” Honestly, I’m amazed that I haven’t fallen to my death or, worse, caused a multi-car pile-up on an interstate by losing a boat off the roof of my vehicle. The advent of ratchet straps improved my quality of life significantly, as I no longer had to use rope to tie things like boats or paddle boards to roof racks.
But my 15-year-old son recently fell in love with fishing, which has completely exposed me as a fraud, because they don’t make ratchet straps for fly rods. The dude is obsessed with the sport in a way that I can’t quite understand. I’ve gone through periods in my life where I tried in earnest to develop a love for fly fishing. Decades ago, while working construction in Atlanta, I would break up the rush hour commute by casting into the Chattahoochee River. The occasional fishing adventure has popped up from time to time for work, and I got super excited about the advent of Tenkara rods, which eliminate a lot of the hassle involved with fly fishing gear. But the passion that most anglers have for the sport has eluded me. People assume I fish because I’m a bearded white guy of a certain age who spends a lot of time in the mountains, but alas, it’s not my bag.
My son fishes every chance he gets, though. He keeps his spin rod in my truck and casts whenever he finds water. He’s taken to riding his OneWheel to fish the creek at the bottom of the neighborhood. And when I say “creek,” I mean polluted drainage ditch. He’s even been kicked out of the local country club for fishing one of their ponds. I couldn’t be more proud.
Here’s the problem: His newfound love has put me in an awkward position where his knowledge of a subject now
outweighs my own. This doesn’t happen often through the course of a young child’s life. Video games, sure, (he can kick my ass at FIFA) and that weird summer where he was super into Pokemon cards, but for the most part, my son has been into the same kind of stuff that I’m into: baseball, mountain biking, John Wick marathons…you know, typical dude stuff. Those situations give me the chance to pass along my hard-earned wisdom. You know, things like “the deeper into the backcountry you go, the better that half-eaten pocket burrito will taste.”
But I got nothing when it comes to fishing.
“Dad, can we use these pocket burritos as bait?”
I don’t know.
“How come brook trout don’t mate with rainbow trout?"
They’re racist.
And the real kicker: “Can you tie this fly onto the line for me?”
No, son. I can’t. Why can’t they make a tiny version of the ratchet strap that keeps a fly on the line? Why, God, why?!
I know in my heart that knottying is one of those skills a dad is supposed to pass down to his offspring, and I always intended to learn the skill. I’ve tried apps and how-to books, I’ve subjected myself to intense multi-day trad climbing camps that had me learning knots and setting anchors out in the wild. The success of every effort
has been short-lived, though. I can’t seem to retain the knot-tying knowledge. Ask me what happened on the third season of Knight Rider when I was 8 years old and I’ll tell you; but ask me to tie the knot that I learned yesterday and I got nothing. Is it possible that I have a very rare and specific learning disability that’s centered on joining two pieces of rope together? Is it a disease? Is there a pill for it?
If it is a disease, it obviously skipped a generation. My dad is great at knots, and my son seems to have picked them up quickly. When I disappointed him with my lack of knowledge, he turned to the greatest source of wisdom in the history of mankind: YouTube. In just a few days, he’s learned a handful of useful knots from social media influencers who also make more money than I do, not that I’m keeping score or anything.
And now, in some weird role reversal, when we’re fishing, I often have to ask him to tie a new fly onto my line for me, like we’re in that movie with Dudley Moore and Kirk Cameron where the dad and son switch bodies. Actually, now that I think about it, having my son do the hard bits for me isn’t that bad. Maybe I can get him to set up the tents on camping trips and push me up hills on hard mountain bike rides. This could be the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in our lives.
blueridgeoutdoors.com/bestoftheblueridge
THE RIDE GUIDE
Autumn is prime time to get out on gravel, singletrack, roads, and bike paths to spin those wheels. To help get you out there, here’s our top gear picks for fall cycling.
BY DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN
Ibis
Ripley V
Put it this way, the Ripley is the do-it-all mountain bike you dream about. The ride you buy when you know you want to commit to singletrack and a passion for the trails. The latest iteration of the brand—an OG MTB pioneer, founded in 1981 by the legendary Scott Nicol, AKA Chuck Ibis—features 140mm of travel up front and a new sizing range that better fits different body types. It climbs as well as it sucks up all the rattle of technical downs, reaffirming its status as our dream ride. $3,499 frame only, $4,999–$8,199 builds; ibiscycles.com
Vvolt
Alpha II
Ringing in at a very nice price for an ebike, this baby is built to make commuting and cruising around town a blast. The bike tips the scales at just 44 pounds (much lighter and easier to wrangle than most ebikes) and puts five levels of pedal assist power and a throttle at your fingertips. The 350w motor runs for up to 45 miles on a charge, topping out at 20 mph, and a belt drive means you don’t have to worry about chain upkeep. $1,799; vvolt.com
Giant
Trance X 1
With 29-inch wheels (and the ability to opt to mount a 27.5-inch wheel in the back), this bike delivers a lot of fun on the trails at a reasonable price point. It can handle big hits thanks to a
plush 150mm front fork and 140mm of rear travel but still climbs like a champ thanks to smooth Maestro suspension that delivers solid pedaling power. Even better, a flip chip allows riders to adjust the frame geometry according to the terrain. $3,900; giant-bicycles.com
Salsa
Warbird
This bike simply eats up hills. It’s nimble and can take on singletrack, packed dirt, loose gravel, and pavement—all with utter confidence and comfort. The recipe Salsa has created in this high-performance gravel ride makes it perfect for speed, distance, fun, or an escape. It was the perfect bike for a tester who thought she’d given up pedaling long distances—until she hopped on. $3,399–$7,699; salsacycles.com
State Bicycle
6061 All-road
A take-on-surfaces bike with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, this machine was made for those of us who don’t have a whole lot of lucre but like to play hard. The knobby tires, 11-speed drivetrain, and disc brakes mean it can handle full-on gravel adventures but it’s just as comfortable commuting to class. The brand will even supply you with a second wheelset so you can swap out between 700c and 650b for an extra $350. Builds starting at $1,400; statebicycle.com
Trek
Checkpoint ALR 5
If bikepacking is your bag, this is your beast. This alloy ride, which won’t break the bank, can cruise dirt and pavement and features an array of mounts to haul all your bags. The 1x12 drivetrain provides power on hills and flats while keeping things simple. $2,500; trekbikes.com
Segway
Ninebot eKickScooter E2 Pro
It’s back-to-school season, and this scooter is the answer when it comes to getting to campus and whizzing to class. Accelerating up to 15.5 mph with a battery life of about 17 miles at full speed, it provides more power and range than most scooters and big 10-inch tubeless tires can deal with bumpy terrain. Plus, a built-in Apple Find My function means you can trace it should it get nicked. $500; store. segway.com/kickscooter-e2-pro
Bolt
Performance Razor
Look the part. Feel the part. And, sure, make it easier to heal from road rash. These are the reasons male cyclists shave their legs. Designed in Scandinavia, this razor is specifically built to shave your masculine legs, boys. $40; boltshave.com
IBIS
SALSA
TREK
VVOLT
SEGWAY
STATE BICYCLE
GU
Hydration Tabs
No matter if you are racking up road miles, hitting the singletrack, or just commuting on sunny fall days, proper hydration is critical for cyclists. With 320 sodium and 55 potassium (and just 10 calories) these yummy quick tabs give you that necessary boost of electrolytes in your water bottle. $30; guenergy.com
Rab
Cinder Crimp Tee
Simple and fast-wicking, this versatile tee is just the ticket no matter where you are riding (or running). And we love the small zip pocket that holds an ID and credit cards. Bonus: In an effort to increase transparency when it comes to sustainability, Rab gives full information on material sources. $69; rab.equipment
Sweet Protection
Fluxer MIPS
Lightweight with wide, roomy vents, this is a helmet to keep your noggin relatively cool on gutty rides. Of course, it’s also a helmet to keep you safe should you go down thanks to added ribbed protection (yup) on the inside of the lid and MIPS technology that mitigates the chances of a concussion. $200; sweetprotection.com
Stio
Shifter
Quick to wick and serving up UPF 50+ sun protection, this cycling shirt is a godsend when you sweat out in the autumn sun—and it still looks presentable when you wander into a brew pub post-ride. It comes in several color/pattern options but we give the thumbs up to the Saddle Biking Cowboy style, which reflects the brand’s Wyoming roots and your attitude on a ride. $59; stio.com
Outdoor Research
Freewheel Ride Pants
Ideal for those cool fall morning mountain bike rides, these long bike pants offer up plenty of stretch and wick away moisture. Plus, they feature abrasion resistance and a nice fit for your butt when you straddle your saddle. $130; outdoorresearch.com
Abus
Bordo One 6500A
Never worry about forgetting your combination or losing your key again—this heavy duty bike lock secures and opens via a Bluetooth app. What’s more, it’s equipped with a 100-decibel alarm
should someone dare to mess with it. But you can rest easy since the 5.5mm-thick bars take construction-site-level effort to cut through. $240; abus.com
Camelbak
M.U.L.E. 12 100-ounce
The old standby with some new upgrades, this hydration pack is our choice for big trail rides as well as wheeling around town. The vented back panel provides just enough airflow without taking up too much space and the removable waist strap allows you to customize to your liking. Plus, it’s made from sustainable repurposed nylon. $130; camelbak.com
Curious Creatures
Ramble Scramble Short
These well-constructed shorts, from up-andcoming MTB brand Curious Creatures, feature a stylish slim fit, and they’re made from a comfortable 4-way stretch poly that offers plenty of give when you’re ready to hammer some singletrack miles. $139; wearecuriouscreatures.com
OUTDOOR RESEARCH
ABUS
CAMELBAK
CURIOUS CREATURES
Solutions start in the South.
We are the Southern Environmental Law Center, one of the nation’s most powerful defenders of the environment, rooted right here in the South. As lawyers, policy and issue experts, and community advocates and partners, we take on the toughest challenges to protect our air, water, land, wildlife and the people who live here. Together, we can solve the most complex environmental challenges right here in the South.
OUR FAVORITE SONGS IN SEPTEMBER
Best New Music from the Blue Ridge and Beyond
BY JEDD FERRIS AND DAVE STALLARD
EVERY MONTH OUR EDITORS
curate a playlist of new music, mainly focusing on independent artists from the South. In September we’re highlighting new tunes from Billy Strings, Carbon Leaf, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings.
CARBON LEAF
“Backmask 1983”
On “Backmask 1983,” the first single from the band’s first long player in a decade, Carbon Leaf combines arena rock power chords with spacey keyboards and a bevy of eighties references, including Farrah Fawcett posters, the Challenger explosion, fear of the Bermuda Triangle and Bigfoot, and the inherent dangers of playing a vinyl record backwards, to provide a deep sense of nostalgia for Gen X listeners who came of age in the mysteries of the pre-internet age. For fans of the band who date back some thirty years—and are old enough to remember its allusions— this song is like a little bit of time travel. – D.S.
SKYLAR GUDASZ
“Truck”
North Carolina artist Skylar Gudasz takes a soul-searching journey in “Truck,” a track from her newly released album, “Country.” In the laid-back roots-rock tune, Gudasz calls out comforting voices from the radio, including Lucinda Williams and Emmylou Harris, before turning the lyrics to question what’s on the road ahead (“What are you looking for out there, girl?”). – J.F.
BILLY STRINGS
“Highway Hypnosis”
Billy Strings has turned bluegrass
into an electrifying arena spectacle, blending fast picking with wild light displays and psychedelic pedal effects. Strings’ sonic evolution into large rooms is on full display throughout the new live album, Billy Strings Live Vol. 1, a 10-track effort compiled from shows in 2023 and earlier this year. The standout “Highway Hypnosis” is a wayward traveler’s anthem that starts out as a traditional-sounding foot-stomper but gradually drifts into a blissful deep-space exploration, with distant whiffs of the Grateful Dead’s “Eyes of the World.” – J.F.
FRUITION
“Saturday Night”
Fruition returns with their first record in four years and the first single, “Saturday Night,” is a down-tempo ode to a simple message: life’s joys are uncomplicated when you have your lover close by. The band delivers a groovy acoustic rhythm, accented by some tasty slide guitar, that buoys the stellar harmonies of Kellen Asebroek, Jay Cobb Anderson, and Mimi Naja. In a world driven by the relentless hustle and bustle of our modern schedules, this is a nice reminder that happiness is close at hand if we only pay attention. – D.S.
GILLIAN WELCH & DAVID RAWLINGS
“Empty Trainload of Sky”
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings have just returned with their first batch of new songs in seven years. The August-released album “Woodland” pays tribute to the duo’s longtime Nashville studio, which they have been rebuilding since it suffered devastating tornado damage back in 2020. The album’s first track leans into the bluesy side of the pair’s rustic folk sound, with earthy harmonies and fluid acoustic strings highlighting their incomparable chemistry. – J.F.
WAYNE GRAHAM
“A Silent Prayer”
Shooting a bottle rocket at a traffic light from the window of a van is exactly the type of shenanigan you
would expect from a band out on the road. This seemingly harmless pursuit became the inspiration for the chorus for “A Silent Prayer,” establishing a disconnect between actions and consequences, while serving as a metaphor for how our own efforts—benign or otherwise— can leave us on shaky ground within our relationships. The first single is from the band’s new record, “Bastion,” which releases this month on Hickman Holler Records, Tyler Childers’ imprint. – D.S.
FANCY GAP
“Strawberry Moon”
Fancy Gap is the new North Carolina-based project featuring the Love Language’s Stuart McLamb and songwriter/producer Charles Crossingham. A highlight from the collaborator’s recently released selftitled album is this contemplative
To hear these songs and more, follow the Trail Mix playlist on Spotify.
BILLY STRINGS' NEW LIVE ALBUM FEATURES EXTENDED JAMS FROM SHOWS IN 2023 AND EARLIER THIS YEAR. PHOTO BY DANA TRIPPE
