Adventure Outdoors Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 126

BuRnSvIlLe

MeTrIc BiKe RiDe

BURNSVILLE , NC HOSTS CYCLING EVENT IN APRIL

For more than 20 years , cyclists from across the South have come to Burnsville , NC on the last Saturday in April to ride in the Burnsville Metric , a 60.7 trek through the scenic backroads and byways of Yancey County , home of Mount Mitchell State Park and five of the 10 highest mountains East of the Mississippi River .
This year ’ s Burnsville Metric will be held on Saturday , April 28 th .
For some riders , it ’ s competition they seek . They want to prove themselves against other cyclists . They charge hard out of the gate and never let up . Others take a different approach . For them , it ’ s about challenging themselves and enjoying the weekend ’ s fun and camaraderie .
Burnsville , North Carolina is a charming small town 40 minutes northeast of Asheville . Located between Mt . Mitchell , Grandfather , and the Roan -- all legendary mountains in North Carolina -- Burnsville is right in the sweet spot . It ’ s why so many travelers exploring the region between Asheville and Boone or Blowing Rock visit this area .
The Burnsville Metric course is a friendly , flat route that winds its way along the rivers and through the rolling countryside . The scenery includes swinging footbridges spanning the river , and hilltop churches with centuries-old cemeteries .
The Metric route was chosen for its scenic beauty , but race organizers also wanted the event to be inviting to riders of all levels . There ’ s also a second , shorter course that ’ s only 40 miles long . And both routes have well-supplied rest stops with bathrooms , and roving SAG support .
Visit YanceyChamber . com to see pictures of the Burnsville Metric , register for the race , make lodging reservations , and read about the town . Burnsville and Yancey County are home to big mountains , clear rivers , a thriving arts community and friendly people . Highest mountains , small town charm ! Visit this spring and see for yourself .