The day begins at Blackwater Falls State Park.

The stage concludes at Red Creek Campground in the Dolly Sods Wilderness.

This stage bridges two of the most iconic stops along the ADT in West Virginia. Blackwater Falls is an essential site to see, so make sure to head over to the viewpoint before the ride kicks off. Maybe even pop into the lodge for a coffee or a proper breakfast. After all, you've got a lot of work ahead!

The initial ascent is modest enough, just 500 feet, but it's a preview of things to come as you move into the highest elevation the ADT encounters east of the Rockies. The trail passes between peaks on the left (Cooper Knob) and right (Chimney Rock) before descending into Canaan Valley, where there is once again a state park lodge at your disposal for a warm drink. After that, it's just you and the cold (and maybe the wet), as you first follow the Appalachian Highway, then transition onto backroads, and finally join the Red Creek Trail for the final leg of the stage leading through the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area in the Monongahela National Forest.

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Canaan Valley Resort State Park (7.7 miles), Red Creek Bethel (13.4 miles), and Red Creek Trailhead (17.1 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Food may be available for purchase at Canaan Valley.

Take Heed: It's November and you will be over 4000 feet in elevation. The trail across Dolly Sods can be soggy even in the best of times. Make sure you are dressed appropriately.