Reviewed by: Joco , from Boston, MA

Summary:
I'm just a new-in-town Masshole, so I had enough trouble getting to the trailhead. The climbs were a great workout, and once I got to the big downhill after the saddle, I decided to turn around since I didn't really know where the hell the trail would end. What the hell is Stanley Gap? I figured I'd turn around--but the downhill back down to the parking area was great too! It's almost like you could fall off the switchbacks at any given time...very cool.

Recommended Route:
Up stanley gap to the saddle and back down seemed ok.

Reviewed by: SpecialEd , from Atlanta

Summary:
This is an extreme ride requiring good technical skills, strong climbing legs, good heart and good judgement. There are steep ridglines, narrow tree openings and fast downhills along with some technical, killer climbs. Don't let it's length fool you, even 5 miles will kick your butt. I bet this ride is better when the leaves are off the trees. Assuming that you are starting at Aska Rd., the trail begins with a steep climb that will humble the most seasoned riders. This section will tease you with the idea of reprieve-just-around-the-corner only to slap you with an even steeper, rockier climb and at least 3 false summits. In the saddle is a camping spot and a good place to break. A little bit more technical climbing and false summits, and you will begin to enjoy one of the best, narrow, off-camber, brake smokin' downhills ever (yes, I just rode Pisgah last week). There is one section of the downhill where you can see a long section of the trail on the other side of the ridge ... ease off of the brakes here and bomb but be carefull of the handle-bar-wide openings between the trees. Soon you will hit the Stanly Gap trailhead. The climb back is not as brutal but still has some spots. You will be glad you climbed the 3 mile section first as you go back down to the Aska rd. trailhead.

Recommended Route:
If you plan on doing an out-and-back on this trail, then you should park at the Aska Road trailhead to get the technical, 3 mile climb out of the way first.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Bear Creek, Pisgah NC, DuPont SF NC.

Reviewed by: Tim , from atlanta

Summary:
After the 3.8 warm up...This was the start of a mostly 2 mile climb that was hearty. Great views of Blue Ridge mtns and lake. The ride was about 17 miles give or take but well worth the 20F weather. Some ice on norh facing travese double fault line climbs made for some real fun too.

Recommended Route:
We started from the restaurant on the river which provided a useful 3.8 mile warm up up to trail head parking lot.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
This ride is what you want. If you are feeling strong then in and out with a visit to the lake may be instore for you. The climbs are stronger than most trails...And while excellent do not expect to descend as much as you ascend and I am not complaining. Get out and ride this one. Very few trails will get my 5 star rating too. Bull mtn. 4, Carters Lake 3.5 ...

Reviewed by: Busta Hyman , from k

Summary:
if you don't ride this out and back then you don't belong on the trail. It is nice to combine this trail with Flat Creek and Green Mtn. This trail has great views in the winter and is one of the best downhill rides around. The uphill provides a great workout as well.

Recommended Route:
Out and Back

Other recommended trails in the same area:
the aska group