Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route: Day 2
For Day 2 of our MABDR ride, we left the campground in Jersey Shore, PA and headed out to Huntingdon, PA. From there we rode through a 180-mile section of trail through Lewis Township Forest and Millmont, PA. Along the route there were so many beautiful lookouts down into the surrounding valleys.
In addition to the views, this section of the MABDR has some quality riding. Of note, there were two optional expert loops, one 3-miles long and the other 11 miles. We did both. They were very technical with numerous rock gardens and I truly felt like I was mountain biking in Borderland—except for the fact that I was cruising over the rock gardens at 30 mph. These sections were an absolute blast and we finished with huge smiles on our faces.
Also of note was the hospitality we encountered today. During our breaks so many people came up to us, curious to see what we are up to and where we are going. Likewise, when we made it to camp tonight, Cliff, a really nice older gentleman swung by our site to chat. Apparently it’s his habit to talk with all the MABDR riders that pass through. We had such a great time chatting with Cliff that he gave us his phone number and told us to call if we needed any help on the trail.
A little while later, as Jim and I were struggling mightily to start a fire, another camper came by and opened up a can of whoop ass on our fire. The lighter fluid sure did the trick, allowing us to relax in style.
Before I forget—the local ladies are very friendly too. So friendly that I had Jim shaking his head while I enjoyed a nice conversation with a local girl at the market where we got dinner. (Don’t worry though, Ma, I’m too tired to get in any trouble on this trip).
This trip has already offered so many more memories beyond the riding. I’m excited to get going again tomorrow.
By: Mickey Spades. If you found Mickey’s post useful, consider sending him a few bucks. (Venmo: @michael-spadea-4). And here are all the posts from all Mickey’s trip:
