Mountains of Misery & Wilderness Road Ride

[tulip]

I am not fond of that tunnel. Coming down, fast, I could feel a pickup truck behind me. I had no headlight; not sure if I had a rear blinkie. I could not see a thing. I just became Luke Skywalker and let the Force Be With Me. It worked, but I don't want to be in that situation again. I'll bring a light next time.

[KathiCville]

Howdy.......Weighing in late here on the BRParkway part of the thread. IFJane thought maybe I could toss in a few useful tidbits about the northern stretch, between Tye River and Waynesboro. I didn't get a chance to ride up there this past summer, but I did the year before, several times.

I generally did an out-and-back from about Milepost 10 to Milepost 27 or so. Not a long stretch---33+ miles---but I always found it challenging! If I remember correctly that stretch contains one of the more dramatic changes in altitude in the northern region of the Parkway. (I can believe it, whew!)

Roadway is very well-maintained. Drivers tend to be courteous and pay attention. Plenty of motorcycles, especially on weekends, no surprise. Plus local, fast-moving cycling clubs.

Keep in mind that the vehicle speed limit is 45 on the Parkway, but only 35 on Skyline Drive, so motorized traffic *can* move at a faster clip than you might expect for a scenic roadway......And, boy, is it scenic! Gorgeous!

I'm NOT strong or fast rider, but I could (usually) patiently and slowly granny gear my way up the two- to four-mile steady climbs. I actually found the downhills tougher 'cause they're curvy AND steep on the Parkway. But if you're totally comfortable on your bike and know how to handle it at speeds above 25mph, you'll be just fine.

Have fun! The views more than make up for any grunting and groaning as you pedal!