Ride Spot: Wilmington & Jay Road Cycling Bliss

If you want spectacular mountain views, rushing rivers, and shaded country roads, then this month’s ride spot has what you’re looking for. The countryside around Wilmington and Jay offers all of this for road cyclists and will be offering it up with special bonuses during the Ride for the River weekend on July 17-18.

These two routes–30 and 45 miles–show off the best of the area at this event that supports the Ausable River Association’s efforts to protect the clean waters, natural hydrology, diverse ecology, and scenic beauty of the Ausable. Both routes take you north on Black Brook Road along the waters of the Ausable River, and the extra loop on the 45-mile route includes some spectacular views on Turnpike Road.

Riding through Ausable Forks offers a chance to stop for water or food and heading south on Sheldrake and North Jay Roads you’re treated to some stunning views of the high peaks ahead of you before crossing the historic covered bridge in North Jay and heading back toward Wilmington.

The big day of riding on August 18 at Ride for the River adds bonuses like route markings, on-the-road support, live music and a BBQ at the finish line, and an event t-shirt. You can also learn more about the important work of the Ausable River Association at AusableRiver.org.

You can register all the way up to event day, but only those signed up by June 30 will be guaranteed to get one of the awesome event t-shirts.