Short stop at Buc-ees for some breakfast and some warm cinnamon roasted pecans. I used to love just walking around and checking out all their stuff but now it’s just ehh. They didn’t have enough cashiers and it made me grumpy. Maybe it was just knowing it would be no more beaches for awhile?
My destination for the day was Roanoke and specifically Roanoke Mountain Adventures. It is a sporting goods store that has a large amount of used gear and clothing. There is always something there waiting for me to purchase. This trip did not disappoint as I found some items.
I overheard guests coming into the store inquiring about shuttle service for the race? Hmm, what race?
Turn out the “Rockstar Challenge” is a 270 mile race from Harrisonburg, VA to Roanoke. Um, not today.
But I was directed to the Roanoke Outside website. Once there, look for information on the tour of Carvins Cove Lowers. I was able to download the route on ridewithgps and felt prepared not to get too lost as I was warned there is no cell service.
Carvins Cove is the second largest municipal park in the country with over 12,000 acres and 60 miles of trails.
After a 25 minute drive I was at the Bennett Springs Trailhead.
I have ridden this area before with my mt bike crew, minus Luke. And I remember how much climbing there was. Boy was it glad I had my ebike. The first 3 miles of bumpy and rooty singletrack was uphill.
It was fun and challenging with a dont-look-down vibe as much of the trail, when not stream crossing was on a ledge with consequences if you fall.
It was quite different terrain from when I last road the soft flowy sand trails at Santos but I liked the challenge.
The route set took me on many blue trails and some really beautiful scenery.
After riding I was only 6 hours from home but I knew I wouldn’t make it home in one shot. I had ridden hard and I have the 4.5 hour drive rule. So I spent the night in the West Virginia Welcome Center lot.