X,

I second the nomination for rides in VA! I live in Madison County (at the bottom of the mountain below Big Meadows & the Skyline Drive). This county alone has hundreds of paved roads that are excellent for cycling. Add to it the counties of Culpeper, Rappahannock & Greene and you have more cycling than you can do in a couple weeks. There are many cyclists here so the traffic is generally very friendly. For other diversions, hike from Big Meadows down to Hoover's Camp. It's an easy hike and you can see the cabins President Hoover used as his "Camp David"-type retreat. Other good hikes are Old Rag (great rock scrambling) & White Oak Canyon for the falls. If staying on the Skyline Drive is too remote for you, the nearby towns of Culpeper or Orange both have places to stay.

As for the Blue Ridge Parkway, I have taken my bike down to Peaks of Otter, stayed there & used it as a base for cycling. Great trip & fun time, but the weather can be iffy in spring.

Is there any way you can take your own bike instead of renting? My bike is such a part of "me" that I don't think I would enjoy a trip as much on another! If you decide to head in this direction (quick trip over to Rt. 15 at Gettysburg, then head south ) let me know and I'll map some rides for you!