Biking (Mountain)
Echols Dorm: Brick Wall By Side Door
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park has some of the finest single track in VA (a few years ago it was mentioned in Blue Ridge Outdoors as one of the top 3 mountain bike destinations in VA!). There are plenty of tough, technical climbs up to fantastic views, followed by a ridge-line roller coasters and endless down hills. We’ll decide on which trails to tackle when we get there. Whatever we do, plan for 20-25 miles with plenty of rest stops (5-6 hours). You can compensate for experience with good aerobic shape, but some experience is necessary so do NOT sign up unless you have done some mountain biking and are in decent shape. Eat a good hearty breakfast, come well hydrated, and bring plenty of snacks for the trail. I don’t know what the weather will be like, so prepare for bad weather by dressing in non-cotton layers. There may be some stream crossing so bring along some extra socks. The club has 6 nice front suspension Gary Fisher Tassajara (various sizes) and helmets, which we will pick up when we meet. We’ll find a place to replenish our carbs after the ride so bring ca$h.
I had to cancel my ride last weekend due to injuries, and I promised the attendees that I would give them first dibs on this trip, so everyone will be put on the waitlist and I will give them until Thursday at noon to sign up, then it will become first-come, first-serve. I can expand the trip if people sign up who have their own bike/gear, and if people sign up who can drive and transport bikes.
The Club Provides: bikes, helmets, some extra tubes, bike transport, ga$
You should bring: your bike & gear, lots of water, lots of snacks, extra tubes, hydration pack or small backpack if you have one, extra socks, proper bike attire (non-cotton layers; NO baggy pants – the chain ring will eat them!), ca$h