Back Roads Century

2016 Registration is Open!

(REGISTER HERE)

The Back Roads Century is one of the premier cycling events in the mid-Atlantic region. Each fall, Potomac Pedalers invites cycling enthusiasts of all ages and abilities for a great weekend of riding and fun. The Back Roads Century features multiple distances, up to a full 100-mile ride. Every distance is a fully-supported ride with route directions/cue sheets, plenty of rest stops with delicious food and drinks – including our famous tomato sandwiches – as well as mechanical and first aid support during your ride. For the first time, this year’s cue sheets will note historical and habitat information at different points along the routes.

The Back Roads Century returns for its second year to beautiful Shepherdstown, West Virginia, a quaint yet vibrant town with an extremely warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located just across the bridge from the Antietam Battlefield, history buffs and regular travelers alike will find Shepherdstown’s historical allure a perfect complement to the charm and variety readily abundant at every turn in town. The Back Roads Century begins at Shepherd University and many routes will follow parts of the Potomac River, with rolling hills taking you past apple orch

After Sunday’s ride, join us for our “End of Ride Celebration” at Bellevue Manor, a historic venue with great views overlooking the Potomac. The event will feature amazing food prepared by local restaurants, as well as live entertainment that will have you up on your feet even after riding for hours.

Make It a Weekend with Saturday Rides & Fun:

Stay overnight and enjoy the great restaurants, great bars with live music, and unique shopping in Shepherdstown. We will be offering two free rides on Saturday, September 17, that will include tours of local Civil War sites commemorating the 155th anniversary of the Battle of Antietam. One route will be around 20 miles on relatively flat roads. The second route will be around 35 miles and include some hillier roads. We’ll have more specific details on these rides in about a month. While both rides are free, we will have active bike marshals and other support in enjoying the breathtaking scenery and historic landscapes.

We are also partnering with local businesses and organizations to offer specially tailored entertainment featuring local artists, historic/environmental landmarks and local merchants throughout the weekend. These events will be catered to both cyclists and any of their non-bicycling companions.

So if you’re looking for a challenging, rewarding and fun way to spend a beautiful fall day or two, be sure to participate in the 2016 Back Roads Century. We’d love to see you there!

Potomac Pedalers Members Receive a $25.00 Discount

Membership in Potomac Pedalers costs only $30.00 per year for individuals, and $37.00 for families, so consider joining Potomac Pedalers before you register for the Century! You’ll receive many benefits including Bike Shop Discounts and more.