The Storming of Thunder Ridge is an annual cycling event in Lynchburg in central Virginia’s heartland. Hosted by the YMCA of Central Virginia, this bike event holds five distances for every level at 27, 45, 49, 75 and 100 miles, respectively, and has the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The event is very popular and annually attracts up to 1,000 participants so it’s important to register early before they meet the rider limit. At Strambecco, we consider the Storming of Thunder Ridge to be one of the Best Cycling Events in the Mid-Atlantic.
Event & Course Info
The 27 and 45 mile routes take you through rolling hills and scenic back roads. Additionally, there’s an exclusive 49 mile route known as The Mountain ONLY, where riders start and finish at Big Island, taking on the thrilling Thunder Ridge and Curtis loop. Note that this route has a remote starting location. For those seeking a challenge, the longer 75 and 100 mile routes include a demanding 13 mile climb to Apple Orchard Mountain, the highest peak of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The 100-mile route boasts an impressive 9,000 feet of climbing for an unforgettable day on the bike.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
The Storming of Thunder Ridge helps fund the Community Support Campaign of the YMCA of Central Virginia and is well supported offering both community and physical challenge to all participants. After the event, there is plenty of food and cyclists can enjoy YMCA amenities such as showers, pool, and hot tub. Indoor camping in the gymnasium and outdoor camping at the YMCA’s soccer fields will be available Saturday night and outdoor camping only on Sunday night. The host hotel is the Hilton Garden Inn while there are a variety of accommodations in the area that will fit everyone’s taste including boutique vacation rental curator All Belong Co.
There are more great outdoor activities to check out while in the Lynchburg area from hiking popular trails of Peaks of Otter, Crabtree Falls, and the James River Heritage Trail, to kayaking along the James River to rock climbing at Peaks of Otter or the Natural Bridge, which offer challenging cliffs and boulders for climbers of different skill levels. For the golf enthusiasts, popular courses amidst beautiful surroundings include Ivy Hill Golf Club, London Downs Golf Club, and Poplar Grove Golf Course.
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