23rd Annual Burnsville Metric Offers Two Options

It’s known for being one of the most scenic rides in the state, and every mile you pedal makes a difference for local heroes. Mark the start of the spring and summer cycling season with the 23rd annual Burnsville Metric, April 29 through Yancey and Mitchell counties. This year’s event includes the usual 60.7-mile loop, as well as a shorter 43-mile ride.

The ride, which is casual and not considered a race, begins and ends in downtown Burnsville on the historic Town Square. The route heads west on US 19E toward Asheville, turns north as it follows the Cane River, heads east to Bakersville and then winds its way south down NC 80 along the Toe River before returning to Burnsville.

The shorter ride splits off at mile 30, heading back to Burnsville along Jacks Creek Road.

“It’s exciting to get out first thing on a cool spring morning,” says Van Roldan of the planning committee and owner of Solstice Cycles. “People ride around Town Square to warm up. The event brings together a lot of old friends and different organizations that ride together.”

The ride is organized by a small group of volunteers who promote bicycling in the scenic northern mountains, and the event supports several nonprofits in the area. In the last five years, the Burnsville Metric has raised nearly $25,000 for local volunteer fire departments and rescue squads, along with Hospice, Healthy Yancey, Mountain Heritage Eco Club and others.

Scenic mountain roads and low population density make the area ideal for cycling.

“We love riding these mountains,” Roldan says. “And we love to share that with others. We look forward to bringing people up here to ride.”

Three well-supplied rest stops will be located along the route. Roving SAG support vehicles will patrol the course to provide mechanical assistance.

After the cyclists return to Town Square, the Nu Wray Inn will serve a post-race meal on the deck. Barbecue plates consist of pulled pork, bread, potato salad, coleslaw and baked beans. Blind Squirrel Brewery, a Plumtree-based brewery that opened its Burnsville Outpost taproom and restaurant this past summer, will provide craft beer.

Early registration, through April 15, is $45 for adults and $35 for full-time students, age 22 or younger. All registrations after April 15 are $55. The post-race meal is included in the registration fee; additional plates may be purchased for $12 each. Day-of registration and packet pickup begin at 7:15 am at Burnsville Town Center. The ride starts at 9. You can sign up here.