High Country Press: Come and Ride the Rural Roller-Coaster Roads at the Boone Gran Fondo
Excerpt from story published by High Country Press on July 23, 2024. Read the full story.
Sitting at just over 3,000 feet above sea level in North Carolina’s high country, mid-summer temperatures in Boone, NC, are among the most comfortable in the Southeast. Early August is a prime time to be in Boone!
Nestled in the Western Carolina Appalachian Mountains the scenery in Boone is unparalleled with grand vistas stretching over 100 miles. The laid-back atmosphere of this western North Carolina college town is contagious. One of the smaller fields for a Gran Fondo National Series event, the Boone Gran Fondo has a supportive, family feel with great local food.
There are distances of 24, 57 or 95 miles to suit all abilities of cyclists. The rural roller-coaster roads around Boone are a ton of fun, and quite challenging. The climbs aren’t very long, but that means there’s not much time for recovery on the descents, either. This is a great course for all-around riders. All riders will start at 8:00 AM on August 4 from 164 South Depot Street Boone, NC 28607. The finish line will be at the same location.