Classics, Updates, And #Gravelachia

In 5 years of Appalachian Journey we have had a handful of different courses. Floyd VA has 4 distinct gravel “zones” which allow us to change up and sample different areas every couple of years. For 2020-2023 we operated the “Classic” courses which tasted the Eastern Continental Divide and Indian Valley. In 2024 and 2025 we move over towards the Old Appalachian Trail, circumnavigate Buffalo Mountain, and then bring back Blue Ridge Parkway through the heights of Rocky Knob in what we are calling the NEW courses.

The below are a couple of samples of what you may find but Journey courses are always subject to change and may include private or permitted areas which shouldn’t be ridden outside of race weekend.

We hope you enjoy your Journey and we will see you in the first weekend of April every year!

New Short 35

This beauty of a short course travels out of camp with all of the other distances and utilizes some beautiful portions of the Old Appalachian Trail. Before the AT was a footpath which travels west of Floyd and the valleys it was a double track path which has changed steadily into a gravel road. Affectionally called the Short Cake we know youll enjoy this sweet ride, but dont be fooled, there’s a few sweet teeth on this one!

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45964825

New Middle Distance 70

The Middle Distance is the most popular choice for most rider’s Journey. This treasure tackles the Old Appalachian Trail segment of all three courses and then begins its push towards Buffalo Mountain, going past old mills, graveyards of days gone by, and more than a few rural sights, sounds, and smells. As Buffalo Mountain comes into sight the middle distance skirts the Buffalo, heading south and then climbing Rocky Knob and ripping back blissful Blue Ridge Parkway.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45964770

The New Long Doggie 100

A little kinder and gentler than the Classic Long Doggie, but this pup still has a few teeth! While it is the longest route we also consider the New Long Doggie to be the sweetheart of all three routes. It moves along the Old AT with the other routes then sets its sights on Buffalo Mountain. As it near the Buffalo it separates from the middle distance and circumnavigates the monolith known to all Floyd County. Some of the finest dirt roads around are on the back of the Buffalo and we know you will appreciate riding beside cool streams, mountain views, and then eventually rolling back Blue Ridge Parkway from Rocky Knob’s heights.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45974730

Classic 36

36.4 miles, 3,409 ft of climbing. The Short Journey is a great ride without straying too far from home. The course covers some of the smoothest and fastest dirt roads in Floyd County, while still edging on the very border of the Floyd County plateau to see some of the best views the area has to offer. Prepare for a good time and to be back before breakfast!
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30834762

Classic Middle Distance 65

65 Miles, 6,709 ft of climbing. The Middle Journey is a gem of Appalachian back roads. Touching the same plateau borders as the Short Journey; views included, the Middle Journey then bee lines out to the Eastern Continental Divide for a real treat. Plunging down epic descents and meandering back up to the plateau on two of our favorite roads, you’ll get a bit of everything. Stay together on the Divide's challenges! You won’t forget the extra views and the extra terrain while still getting back while the hot cakes are warm!
65 mile riders good luck, your course is here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30835151

Classic Long Doggie110

110 Miles, 11,472 ft of climbing. The “Long Doggie” Journey features some of the best and wild parts of the Floyd Plateau. Following the same Eastern Divide action, the long course then sends riders into the Indian Valley. Steep ups and downs followed by some “locals only” treats await. After that, riders can pick up speed again as they sail back towards the finish line.
Long Doggies, get ready to ride friends! Your course is here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31058762