This new populaire is titled "Ala Orange" since it covers parts of Alamance and Orange counties. The southernmost part of the route intersects with a couple of other permanents, but Ala Orange starts and ends in Graham which makes it more convenient for those living between Greensboro and Mebane. Access is close to I-40/85 (exit 147).
The course is rolling throughout, but no really tough climbs. Like a certain permanent in the Raleigh area, whose first time riders are soberly admonished by the route owner to "save something for ____ Mountain", this one also features a mountain road (Bass Mountain Rd), but it is approached from the kinder, gentler side. The descent is a great downhill where riders can reach 35 or 40 mph without even trying.
Best place for a sandwich stop is the Saxapahaw General Store (43 mile control), which features indoor and outdoor seating.
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| A cold start for Oct. 30F |
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| Graham Rite Aid is the starting location |
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| Early morning frost and mist along Jim Minor Rd |
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| First control, near Carrboro |
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| Saxapahaw General Store |
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| Home of the Original Hollywood Horror Show. Doesn't look like much on the outside, but apparently there are some good shows. |
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| Bass Mountain Rd. Where is the mountain? |
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| Logs at the New South Lumber Company |
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| Finished lumber being stacked |
Be sure to remember to go to the RUSA website and apply for recognition of your P-12, which if memory serves, you would have completed with your inaugural photo romp on 'Ala Orange.'
ReplyDeletePurchasing the patch is a different step, as I'm confident you recall since you're closing in R-48, and the P-series award recognition / memorabilia works the same as the R-series.
Btw, nice photo montage, Bob.
ReplyDeleteBass Mtn Rd -- reminds me more of Little Mtn Rd on the Bahama Beach course than it reminds me of Egypt Mtn Rd on the semi-eponymous route.
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