Figuring Out Where to Ride: Scouting and Mapping ADV Routes

​Route development could be considered an art form.  It takes a bit of a creative mind and an adventurous spirit to patch together an enjoyable ride.  Creating a route that follows the curves of the track, the elevation changes of the terrain, and through the beauty of our world can be done by just jumping on the bike or by careful and meticulous planning.  For me, a little research before going out has proven to be well worth the effort.  You come up to an interesting looking dirt road, but where does it go?  I have taken it on a whim and found excellent terrain, but I have also found myself on someone’s front yard.  When taking the time to do the homework, I already know that dead end doesn’t go anywhere.  However, I do know taking the next intersection leads to an unmaintained dirt road following the ebb and flow of a creek, climbs to a ridge line, and brings you to a scenic vista. 
 
Sometimes that creativeness and desire for adventure can get you into sticky situations… 

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