Burkes Garden Century
What
This century (102 mi) and metric century (62 mi) has become a tradition for the New River Valley Bicycle Association since 1997 when a long-time member initiated this ride for a casual outing to avoid campus traffic on Move-In day for Virginia Tech. This ride has rapidly gained popularity as a fast, easy century for anyone who loves to ride bicycles. Many novice cyclists enjoy this century as their first, while advanced riders test their hammering ability to plug out 100 miles at a fast pace.
The ride is supported with SAG vehicles, regular port-a-potties, and gas stations for food at Rocky Gap (21 mi & 83 mi) and lunch stops at Mattie’s Place in Burke's Garden (56 mi). Bring cash (since not all stores have credit card machines) in some small bills (since the stores can get overwhelmed changing $20s for riders). The ride is minimally supported, no food or beverages are provided.
Where & When
The ride is on Saturday, 23 August 2025.
The century ride leaves at 8:00 AM from the football field parking below Narrows Elementary School on Monroe Street:, Narrows, VA, and travels along Wolf Creek up to Rocky Gap.
The metric century riders join the fun in Rocky Gap, starting from the Rocky Gap Elementary School at 9:15 AM.
All participants continue toward Tazwell, turning in Gratton to climb over Rich Mountain into Burkes Garden. There you can pick up lunch at Mattie's Place: fresh-made sandwiches, hand pies or doughnuts or whatever they have baked that day. Climb back out of the Garden and enjoy a gentle downhill cruise back to Narrows. A whopping 1% downhill grade for 40 miles to make you turn just a bit faster!
Route Link for the Metric Century
This is a New River Valley Bicycle Association Member-Only ride: you must be a member to participate.
Are you a current NRVBA member? Then select "Member Registration" at checkout.
Not a current NRVBA member? Select "Non-Member Registration" and your registration will include a 2025 year membership to the NRVBA.
If you have something come up and need to transfer your registration, contact us and we'll get you sorted out.
How (To Register)
The registration link is here. You must also complete the online ride waiver before the ride.
Advance (online) registration cost is $15 for current NRVBA members and $40 for non-members.
