I live near Wilkesboro and was driving a road which is on our route on Sunday, Oct 1. The red route markers are already painted on the roads! That got me excited...doesn't take much I guess! hahahaha
I live in Lenoir and am considering riding the Rolling on the River Ride in Wilkes. Are you riding? Does the route for CNC appear to be coming down Hw16? The highlights talk about the Church of the Frescoe's and I don't know any other way down the Mt. from there except Hwy 16.
Your mention of the Rollin' Round the River Ride caught my eye. (I'm the founder and ride director.) I hope you'll join us September 23rd. The RRRR is a good "tune up" for Cycle North Carolina. It's 50 miles over rolling terrain with rest stops at two interesting historical attractions. (If any of the rest of you are interested, check out the ride at www.bmcc.us/rrr.htm and come join us!)
The route from Ashe into Wilkes won't be officially revealed until the end of September when folks come to Banner Elk. In 2000 when CNC passed through, the route followed NC 16 "down the mountain" with one short sidetrip onto Old 16.
The local organizing committee here in Wilkes has been hard at work. We plan to roll out the red carpet and show everyone a good time when they visit Wilkes "By God" County October 1st-2nd.