I am planning on doing the fall ride, and, as a newbie, thought this might be a good intro for it even though it is loops instead of point to point. Comments, thoughts, experiences appreciated.
Wouldn't hurt to do Spring Retreat if you are new to bike touring. Good test of your physical ability (and gear) to ride back to back to back, and then have time to fix as req'd to cycle for a week. Asheboro is not bad, zoo is there, altho I hear it's in a dry county. Don't sweat that, I am sure someone will be making beer runs. Good chance to meet CNC staff and fellow cyclists, pick up some good tips, then when you come back in the fall, it's to friends. Tip: pack your gear in something that rolls. Much easier to lug your junk to where you set up. Tip: Be sure your bike is ready for a 500 mi ride (ie get a tune-up).
I’m sure that you will find the Asheboro a great place to ride and that CNC will be all you want it to be. The area where the route will take you will afford you the opportunity to get in shape for the upcoming biking season. If you ride a trike there will be some challenges but gear down and remember it is all about attitude. Take your time there is no reason to get in a hurry. Mid-April, Oh, what a beautiful time to be in the great out-of -doors doing what you like to do and doing it with who you like to be doing it with.
I grew up in Randolph County. That area of NC is beautiful with rolling hills and some mountanious type cycling can be found. I hope to do the spring ride too. Yep, dry county.......well not really, Randleman has beer and such which is the northern part of the county. Asheboro has nice restaurants and has moved up alot in the last 20 years.