Laid out the first day's ride today. About 190 miles. Looks like early fall here as there is already color in the leaves. Temps in low to mid 80's expected; 8-10* cooler at elevations.
The plan is:
Kickstands up @ 10:00.<B> BE GASSED AND READY. NO GAS ON BRP</B> until we get to Floyd (about 95 miles). There is a gas station about 5 miles south of the BRP at POOL on rte 43. They have Regular (87) - ($2.50), 89 - ($2.70) & non-ethanol 93 - ($3.00). Separate pumps so you get what you pay for.
There may be a small delay as there is resurfacing south of the Peaks, but not more than a few minutes to wait for a "Follow Me" truck for a couple miles.
Ride for about 45 minutes till the first break at Explore park (M.P. 116 on BRP). There are real restrooms, a shop and interpretive site.
There are no other restrooms between POOL & destination on the Parkway except for a picnic area (M.P. 154)
80 miles south on the BRP for lunch at Tuggles Gap (M.P. 165 on BRP- Rte 8). We should arrive there about 12:30
After lunch, Rte 8 to Floyd VA, then East on 221 for gas stop (Exxon). (about 1/4 mile from rte 8) At least a dozen pumps.
Back country roads to Shawsville, then Catawba for another stop (about an hour) There are 2 gas pumps there & country store.
Back country roads to Fincastle, then Buchanan. Final gas stop. It's about 10 miles back to POOL from there.
I'll pre-ride Saturday's ride Wed or Thur., but planning to go north to the start of BRP, then rte 250 east to rte 151. Devil's Backbone for lunch. Details to follow.
