The day begins at City Hall in Clarksburg.

The stage concludes at the Barbour County Historical Museum in Philippi.

Why take the direct route when you could follow a meandering loop instead? This stage begins by following that philosophical orientation on a small scale between Clarksburg and Bridgeport, and with good reason. After all, a direct approach on U.S. 50 would be unpleasant, if not outright dangerous. From Bridgeport, the ADT takes an even more extravagant approach, arcing wide to the northeast before looping back around to the southwest. What this gains, though, is a visit to Grafton, birthplace of Mother's Day, and a lovely--if all too brief--jaunt through Tygart Lake State Park. Tygart Lake is both a sight worth seeing and a logistical challenge, and its clutching tendrils necessitate a big part of that sprawling arc. Eventually, the ADT passes through Moatville and then follows Arden Grade Road as it winds along the Tygart Valley River all the way to Philippi.

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Bridgeport - Worthington Drive Park (11.5 miles), Boothsville (25 miles), Grafton (32.5 miles), Tygart Lake State Park (36 miles), and Moatsville (50.7 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Food will be available for purchase in Bridgeport and Grafton; restrooms will also be available at the state park.

Take Heed: The opening leg, between Clarksburg and Bridgeport, involves the use of some quite busy roads, so be attentive to the auto traffic around you.