Back Roads of Appalachia

† Explanation of BAC Ride Fee – This fee is not included in the Estimated Cost and is non-refundable once submitted. The Ride Fee for US and Canada is $85 and $150 for all other countries, both are per participant.

Ride Description

SUMMARY:  Cycle in the best of two states!   We are repeating our 2008 ride that highlights this area’s heritage and natural beauty.  It was America’s first frontier and played a pivotal role in our early westward expansion and the Revolutionary War.  You will get to cross paths previously traversed by Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett and Andrew Jackson.  Plan to immerse yourself in the culture and serenity of this part of Appalachia before more is lost forever “to progress.”

You will be afforded the opportunity to ride on scenic routes with limited traffic.  We will cycle through farm country, national forests and intersect the Appalachian Trail several times.

We initially cycle in TN, with overnight stays in Jonesborough (the oldest town in TN), Greeneville (home of Andrew Johnson) and Rogersville.  We then return to Bristol (the Birthplace of Country Music and the home of NASCAR’s ‘fastest half mile’) for a two night stay that will include a rest day to see local sights or the option of doing a loop ride.  Following that, we ride into VA, with a two night stay in historic Abingdon which will provide us an opportunity to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail or take in a show at the renowned Barter Theatre.   We then ride to Marion and Damascus (the “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail”).  All routes have been personally scouted.

Ample exposures to the uniqueness of the area will be offered including museum visits, a local festival and free outdoor concerts.  We will meet on May 14th for our initial orientation.   There will be 8 required cycling days.  Our last riding day will be on Sunday, May 24th with the expectation we will return to Bristol by mid afternoon.

RIDE RATING is 3B: We will average approximately 41 miles and 3200 feet of elevation (per ridewithgps.com) each day.  Days 4 and 8 will have climbing exceeding the 3 rating, 4700 feet and 4300 feet, respectively.  Day 4 will exceed the B rating for mileage, with a distance of 67 miles. However, a shuttle will be available on Day 4 if needed at 49 miles, which will also serve to decrease that day's total climbing.  There will be occasional short stretches that exceed 8% climbing.  Longer routes will be offered on several days for those who may be interested.

WEATHER:   Average temperatures will be 50 degrees for a low and 75 degrees for a high during our trip.  Spring showers are a possibility so plan accordingly.

ADMINISTRATION:  Estimated cost of $1550 includes 10 nights lodging double occupancy, 3 group dinners, 8 breakfasts, luggage van, leader expenses, daily socials, maps and cue sheets as well as the $50 non-refundable BAC fee.  Single riders are encouraged to find compatible roommates.  The Ride Director will introduce singles to facilitate this process.  Some solo rooms may be available at a price yet to be determined.  The ride deposit is $800; the remaining $750 will be due by November 30, 2014.

LOGISTICS:  Bristol straddles the VA-TN state line and is located on I-81, approximately 20 miles from Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI).  Shuttle service is available from the airport for a nominal charge.

CANCELLATION :  Any refund amounts are dependent on our finding a replacement, plus any costs incurred prior to your cancellation.  If we are not able to fill your position, any refund will be based on the principle that costs won’t be increased for those who are completing the tour.  Your share of fixed costs as well as costs for a single supplement if a rider is left without a roommate will be deducted from your eventual refund.  The refund will be disbursed after the tour has completed and a final accounting has taken place.

REGISTRATION:  To register, use the sign-up link above.  You will be contacted by the Ride Director who will tell you more about the ride.  Upon acceptance on the ride, you will be asked to submit your deposit of $800 along with the signed ride application and waiver forms.   You will be moved from the “wait” list to the “participant” list once these documents have been received.  Members with any questions are invited to contact the Ride Director by clicking the name at the top of this Ride Description.