The day begins at the Barbour County Historical Museum in Philippi.

The stage concludes at Blackwater Falls State Park.

Event - Philippi - Details TBA

This Veterans Day stage ranks among the most strenuous since the Rockies. (Though the Rockies, admittedly, would laugh patronizingly at this elevation profile being considered strenuous.) This includes a pair of 1000+ foot ascents, crossing first over the Laurel Mountain ridge and then climbing higher into the Allegheny Mountains. While the first third of the stage follows rural highways, the second third shifts over to much quieter backroads along the Indian and Clover Runs, before descending into Parsons. After following another road along the Black Fork River through neighboring Hambleton and Hendricks, the stage transitions into its third part, following dirt tracks and footpaths along a lovely walk to the outskirts of Blackwater Falls State Park.

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Nestorville (9.8 miles), Parsons (30.1 miles), and Dry Fork Rd (37 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Food may be available for purchase in Nestorville and Parsons.

Take Heed: It's unlikely that a support vehicle will be able to access the route over the last 12 miles, so be sure to stock up on water and any other necessary supplies before you head out.