This is a difficult and beautiful ride starting in Buena Vista. There is a long climb to the Blue Ridge Parkway, followed by substantial hills along the Parkway, and then a very steep descent down into the community of Vesuvius. The descent and ride along the South River are part of the famous Trans-America Bicycle Trail.

This is an advanced ride due to the overall amount of climbing and the distance. It’s roughly a 4 mile climb on Route 60 up the Blue Ridge Parkway averaging around 7%. The descent on Route 56 is very steep, over 20% in parts. BE VERY CAREFUL on both the ascent and descent. The Blue Ridge Parkway has a 45 mph speed limit. Riders must be single file while on the Parkway. South River is very scenic and stocked with trout. On weekends there are often many people out fishing – watch for traffic and cars stopping at unusual spots.

This is an opportunity to ride a section of one of the most favored cycling routes in the world. There are great vistas along the Parkway, both while riding and at the overlooks. One thing to notice on this ride is the transition from the urbanized river bottom of Buena Vista to the darker, forested foothills, to the rugged mountain tops – a wide variety of habitat and environments on a single, iconic ride.

Don Tequila 2255 Beech Ave. Buena Vista, VA 24416

There is a large parking lot shared by several business.

The route is laid out in a counterclockwise direction. It can be ridden clockwise if you really want to test your climbing abilities on Route 56.

Route starts in downtown Buena Vista with few opportunities for services on route.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13332242

• Stop by Gertie's Country Store in Vesuvius and enjoy good food and country comfort. Many cyclists sign the walls commemorating their ride...perhaps you will see a name of a long lost friend!