ESTN 2008: West Virginia - exactly where and when?

[garry]

West Virginia was the landslide winner in the poll for ESTN 2008. Now we need to decide exactly WHERE and WHEN. This thread is for open discussion and the top choices will be put to a poll. I will volunteer to help organize it as I've organized rallies in WV before and spend more than a little time there. R Doug has offered help as have others. I have already started checking on proposed locations. To date, the contenders are:

Canaan Valley State Park (Davis, WV) - state run facility with camping on site. In recent years the group rate was $80/night for a room with 2 double beds. No advance deposits required. No penalties for people not booking the rooms blocked out. Very Moto friendly. They have been willing to honor the group rate even after unbooked rooms are released.  Plus, no one ever said anything about drinking beer in the parking lot while hanging out. The STN National was there in 2006 and people had a great time. There are many, many, many miles of back roads and dirt roads for an ADV ride too if you want to get a little dirty (big bike friendly).

Chief Logan Lodge (Logan, WV) - state run facility located south of Charleston in the middle of coal country. I got a packet of info from them about group rates/etc and was not impressed. Rate is higher than Canaan at $89/night. All manner of stuff in the packet about absolutely no booze can be brought on the property. No smoking. They appear to want a big deposit up-front from an organizer (that'd be me/whoever) complete with penalties if you don't book 90% of the rooms you block out. They will NOT honor the group rate after rooms are released. Seems to be a good central location for exploring the Tazewell/Marion corridor, eastern KY, southwestern WV and maybe even north into Ohio. As R Doug points out, this is coal country (think Deliverance), so the locals are less enthusiastic about visitors. I was kinda excited by this option at first, but after getting the group info packet, I'm not interested. Maybe there is another moto-friendly lodging option in that Charleston area to consider?

Marlington - someone suggested Marlington Motor Inn in another thread. I'm waiting for group rate info, but the regular rate is only $80/night. Marlington is about an hour south of Canaan. Most people would probably ride most of the same roads/routes as at Canaan, just starting from a different point in the loop. It does offer the option of exploring south of 39 which was about the limit for routes based out of Canaan.

Regarding dates:

The National will be in June. There will likely be a Region 6 Meet and Eat in May (Catskills anyone? Runner up in location poll). There seems to be interest in a September date. How about late September to avoid conflicting with the MotoGP at Indy? Leaves don't really change until mid-October, but the weather in September is usually quite nice.

[R Doug]

Great leg work so far Garry.  Canaan is a very good place to go, no doubt.  Also, thanks for thinking about the MotoGP race.  I know a lot of people going to this.

For one other meeting place option, I read in an AMA Magazine that the Koolwink motorlodge in Romney, WV is a pretty bike-friendly place too.

http://www.koolwinkmotel.com/index.htm

The rates are very reasonable, the rooms are clean, and there will be more dining options in Romney, WV.  

As for riding, it's located on Rt. 50.  You could head north towards the Gettysburg area one day and south towards all sorts of WV twisty goodness the next day.  

[tomballos]

Time wise I like September and late Sep is OK with me.

I have stayed at the Canaan Valley Lodge and that place is pretty decent.  It's everything Garry mentioned above and more.  Aside from the main complex or rooms they have several individual cabins that sleep from a few to a dozen folks and you can have your bike right there.  This area could be interesting if we were able to get a large group in here.  The Hotel has a great lounge and restaurant as well as a work out room and pool.  It gets my vote.

[R Doug]

Regarding Canann... there's camping nearby too.

[chornbe]

Marlinton Area, Late September.

$.02

[maddjack]

Sept is good,Canaan is fine with me or second choice marlington,no booze the other place,screw that

[marty2]

Another lodging option in Marlinton Is the Old Clark Inn. It's a very MC friendly B&B with a good rate and a very good breakfast included.
I was there last May with another group of 20+ and I would highly recommend the Inn and that area of WV.
I think they have 7 or 8 rooms but the owner made arrangements with another B&B within walking distance to accommodate our group.
Worth checking into.

my .02
 

[chornbe]

Another lodging option in Marlinton Is the Old Clark Inn. It's a very MC friendly B&B with a good rate and a very good breakfast included.
I was there last May with another group of 20+ and I would highly recommend the Inn and that area of WV.
I think they have 7 or 8 rooms but the owner made arrangements with another B&B within walking distance to accommodate our group.
Worth checking into.

my .02
 

+1, likewise the Jerico B&B/Cabins.

[garry]

Remember that we're estimating 50 people needing 30 rooms. Camping nearby is a plus (on site even better), as is the ability to host a group dinner of some sort. Nearby essentials a plus (food, drink/beer, gas). If anyone is feeling motivated to call the establishments they are recommending and getting group rate quotes (if they can accommodate this size group) for late September that'd be great. $60/night for a room with two double beds is kinda my ideal target, with $80/night being the upper limit.

[R Doug]

The Koolwink has 24 rooms.

[SWriverstone]

I vote Canaan Valley. It's just about impossible to beat as a place to stay---good food, bar, drinking in the lot, beautiful scenery, reasonable rates...and THOUSANDS of miles of amazing riding right there---it's in the middle of it all!  

Scott

[photomd]

Although I haven't participated in any of this, I'm interested...and oh yeah...I always have an opinion.  

What about the Inn at Snowshoe? Lot's of room, but I have no idea about night life in fall.

[R Doug]

Although I haven't participated in any of this, I'm interested...and oh yeah...I always have an opinion.  

What about the Inn at Snowshoe? Lot's of room, but I have no idea about night life in fall.

Snowshoe is a nice place to visit and is in the middle of a lot of great riding!  But the room rates would be almost 2x that of Canaan.  IMHO, if you want to ride all day, there's no need for that nice of a room.  


EDIT... I've placed a call to Snowshoe's Group Sales to see what's available.  After looking over the web site more, the rates in September are not that bad.  I know they have several bike meets there throughout the year so I'll post up what I find out.

[Corbeau]

Thanks, Garry. After all the fun I had at the Nat'l, I can't wait to get back to Canan Valley!

[fjrSKI]

Two events to keep in mind are Indy Moto GP 9/14-15?  and CSTN ? which appears to be moving to SEP.
+1 on Canaan Valley.

[BABOU]

OK I think I am over lurking and ready to start posting again.

This sounds like something I will be coming to.  My Buddy, "MAN OF LAMUNCHA" just bought a Hayabusa and we rode about 1000 miles in October / November.  Before that I had only put 300 miles on my bike since the Nationals in '06.

Jeff

[JoBu]

Late September works for me!!    As for the location, since I have never been to WV, I'm with you fellers.  Wherever you decide will be fine.  I'm looking forward to meeting/riding with you guys/gals.

Cheers,

Joe

[kendenton]

I'm most likely in, regardless of where it is in WV.

+whatever about scheduling around MotoGP though.

[st2sam]

I vote Canaan Valley. It's just about impossible to beat as a place to stay---good food, bar, drinking in the lot, beautiful scenery, reasonable rates...and THOUSANDS of miles of amazing riding right there---it's in the middle of it all!  

Scott

+1    How's that saying go? NO booze, you looze!

[garry]

I am considering "late September" to be the 26 - 28 (weekend after MotoGP). The first weekend in October is possible too. After that, it can make for some cold mornings (or not). But late May can be quite cool in the mountains too.

There seems to be solid support for Canaan Valley in late September (26 - 28). Does this need to go to a poll or are people OK with that option? The group reservations woman at Canaan is in Atlanta over the holiday and said she would be in touch with me next week.

[JoBu]

Works for me, Garry.  Kudos to you for doing the planning/arranging.  

Cheers,

Joe

[sprint_st]

Even though I really like the Old Clark Inn and Marlinton as a base for the rides, Canaan Valley just seems to be the best compromise for everything.  My vote is for mid to late September, but quite frankly I wouldn't worry about competing with other events or at least not let them become a deciding factor.  We all are going to have multiple events competing for our time.  ESTN08 will pull enough people to make it worthwhile regardless of other events.

[Corbeau]

Well, if the balance tips towards Sept, it might be very difficult for me, as I'll be a high school teacher and taking a day off (i.e. the Friday) to ride down to WV will be frowned upon. 3 p.m. departure, 550 miles of slab all the way, then 50 miles with the forest rats on 219 S. You do the math, I'd arrive in the middle of the night...

Damn, it might be possible...

[maddjack]

I,m cool with the dates and Canaan valley Garry

[ST-DocLizard1]

Another lodging option in Marlinton Is the Old Clark Inn. It's a very MC friendly B&B with a good rate and a very good breakfast included.
I was there last May with another group of 20+ and I would highly recommend the Inn and that area of WV.
I think they have 7 or 8 rooms but the owner made arrangements with another B&B within walking distance to accommodate our group.
Worth checking into.

my .02
 

I was there with Marty in May(17-20). +1 for the accommodations. Nelson & Andrea are superb hosts and fellow riders.  www.oldclarkinn.com

I took a group of seven down to the Marlinton Motor Inn last month(Oct 12-15) and the accommodations were also very nice. They have a restaurant on site with a bar. The food was adequate and reasonably priced.
www.marlintonmotorinn.com

Pick a date and they will come.

Doc

[airborneXX]

I was there with Marty in May(17-20). +1 for the accommodations. Nelson & Andrea are superb hosts and fellow riders.  www.oldclarkinn.com

I took a group of seven down to the Marlinton Motor Inn last month(Oct 12-15) and the accommodations were also very nice. They have a restaurant on site with a bar. The food was adequate and reasonably priced.
www.marlintonmotorinn.com

Pick a date and they will come.

Doc

We (The XX group) were at the Old Clark Inn the weekend after youse guys


Nelson said we were better


J/k. Nelson and Andrea are great people. For those looking for a weekend get away the Old Clark Inn can't be beat.





 

[ST-DocLizard1]

We (The XX group) were at the Old Clark Inn the weekend after youse guys


Nelson said we were better


J/k. Nelson and Andrea are great people. For those looking for a weekend get away the Old Clark Inn can't be beat.







 

I guess that explains the replacement of the linens with rubber sheets when we left.

Doc

[ogomer]

Canaan Valley is cool,

[airborneXX]

I guess that explains the replacement of the linens with rubber sheets when we left.

Doc

Yeah it was our second time there

What did you guys do to the hot tub? Nelson said the last group ruined it

[ST-DocLizard1]

Yeah it was our second time there

What did you guys do to the hot tub? Nelson said the last group ruined it

It must have been the shards of the broken beer bottles and the shredded pieces of fabric from the torn bikini bottoms that clogged up the filter. The "beaksters" are a friendly coed group don't ya know.

Doc

[tonyfjr2006]

Late Sept and Canaan Valley is good for me as well.

[tonyfjr2006]

West Virginia was the landslide winner in the poll for ESTN 2008. Now we need to decide exactly WHERE and WHEN. This thread is for open discussion and the top choices will be put to a poll. I will volunteer to help organize it as I've organized rallies in WV before and spend more than a little time there. R Doug has offered help as have others. I have already started checking on proposed locations. To date, the contenders are:

Canaan Valley State Park (Davis, WV) - state run facility with camping on site. In recent years the group rate was $80/night for a room with 2 double beds. No advance deposits required. No penalties for people not booking the rooms blocked out. Very Moto friendly. They have been willing to honor the group rate even after unbooked rooms are released.  Plus, no one ever said anything about drinking beer in the parking lot while hanging out. The STN National was there in 2006 and people had a great time. There are many, many, many miles of back roads and dirt roads for an ADV ride too if you want to get a little dirty (big bike friendly).

Chief Logan Lodge (Logan, WV) - state run facility located south of Charleston in the middle of coal country. I got a packet of info from them about group rates/etc and was not impressed. Rate is higher than Canaan at $89/night. All manner of stuff in the packet about absolutely no booze can be brought on the property. No smoking. They appear to want a big deposit up-front from an organizer (that'd be me/whoever) complete with penalties if you don't book 90% of the rooms you block out. They will NOT honor the group rate after rooms are released. Seems to be a good central location for exploring the Tazewell/Marion corridor, eastern KY, southwestern WV and maybe even north into Ohio. As R Doug points out, this is coal country (think Deliverance), so the locals are less enthusiastic about visitors. I was kinda excited by this option at first, but after getting the group info packet, I'm not interested. Maybe there is another moto-friendly lodging option in that Charleston area to consider?

Marlington - someone suggested Marlington Motor Inn in another thread. I'm waiting for group rate info, but the regular rate is only $80/night. Marlington is about an hour south of Canaan. Most people would probably ride most of the same roads/routes as at Canaan, just starting from a different point in the loop. It does offer the option of exploring south of 39 which was about the limit for routes based out of Canaan.

Regarding dates:

The National will be in June. There will likely be a Region 6 Meet and Eat in May (Catskills anyone? Runner up in location poll). There seems to be interest in a September date. How about late September to avoid conflicting with the MotoGP at Indy? Leaves don't really change until mid-October, but the weather in September is usually quite nice.

Shouldn't this be bumped over to Region 5 as well?

[garry]

I've asked the powers that be to make the National forum open to the major regional meets too (ESTN, CSTN, WCRM) so that there is one place to look for "Meet" info. But I've not even gotten the courtesy of a reply to my PMs telling me "No". I guess a message noting that "ESTN08: West Virginia" discussion is now in Region 6 (because that's the location of the meet) can't hurt in Region 5...

[Ron_NC]

Late Sept and Canaan Valley is good for me as well.

+1

[cognosticator]

COG had their National at Canaan Valley this past Aug, and there was plenty of drinking there  , they even have a bar in the lodge.

Last year COG had a rally at Marlington Inn and we had a good time there also.

Either place would be a great place for riding.

[tonyfjr2006]

I've asked the powers that be to make the National forum open to the major regional meets too (ESTN, CSTN, WCRM) so that there is one place to look for "Meet" info. But I've not even gotten the courtesy of a reply to my PMs telling me "No". I guess a message noting that "ESTN08: West Virginia" discussion is now in Region 6 (because that's the location of the meet) can't hurt in Region 5...

I understand. I am sure it being the Holiday season people are just busy. Thanks for putting a notice in Reg 5 Garry.

[Scratch33]

Either the Marlinton Motor Inn or Canaan Valley State Park would be fine w/me.  

Davis, WV has the Blackwater Brewing Co.  

[stefrrr]

Sounds good to me. Only thing is, if a location with prices closer to the Alleghaney's comes available, I'd be all for that. $80 a night is a little high for me.

[Doug Just Doug]

COG had their National at Canaan Valley this past Aug, and there was plenty of drinking there  , they even have a bar in the lodge

My family happened to be there on a hiking/rafting vacation during the COG.  I had no idea the COG rally was going to be there until we arrived and saw the mass of Connies.  I was KILLIN' me to watch all those bikes heading out for the twisties each morning.  After that, I was already planning to get back down to WV for a m/c trip so CV and late Sept. (or any time) sounds pretty darn good to me.

[basco]

Davis, WV has the Blackwater Brewing Co.  

Uummm, Blackwater. I remember the Porter.  

[farmer fred]

I went to a Guzzi event at the Pipestem resort (state park) and it has rooms, camping, a restaurant (with beer and a great view) and seemed reasonable.  Right on lovely route 20.  Just another option to consider.

[Scratch33]

Uummm, Blackwater. I remember the Porter.  

And I've read/heard of an even better brewpub that's just down the road in Thomas.

[sprint_st]

Dudes,
Break out your maps, you can throw rocks at Davis and Thomas from the Canaan Valley Resort  

[garry]

I went to a Guzzi event at the Pipestem resort (state park) and it has rooms, camping, a restaurant (with beer and a great view) and seemed reasonable.  Right on lovely route 20.  Just another option to consider.

Pipestem looks like a good option too. And rates are very reasonable ($71/night normal rate). Good riding all around. I sent them an email for more info. Hopefully they are bit more relaxed than Chief Logan regarding deposits, penalties for no booking all your rooms, booze, etc...

[R Doug]

Pipestem is absolutely gorgeous!

What about Snow Shoe?  There didn't seem to be a swell of support for it.  But, there's a lot to do on the mountain and it's near some GREAT roads too.

I have put in a call to Group Sales.  I'll post up what they say.

[SWriverstone]

What about Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park/Resort? It looks great (and is in a great location)...but is it too gucci?

Scott

[Doug Just Doug]

And I've read/heard of an even better brewpub that's just down the road in Thomas.

Yup. It's also a very good German restaurant -- awesome Saurbrauten (sp?).  Went back a few days later and had some fresh Brook Trout. Mmmmmmmm.  

[jschmidt]

awesome Saurbrauten  

Two words you don't often see together.    

It's Sauerbraten, but I admit I had to look it up.

[sprint_st]

FJRski mentioned the Briar Inn in Lewisburg in one of the ESTN08 topics.  The FJR Eastern Owner's Meeting was there last September and the facilities were excellent.  Although I have been riding WV since the late 60's, it was my first exposure to more southern coal country roads (like there is anywhere in WV which isn't coal country).  I, personally, much prefer the area from Marlinton north.  Just don't like all the little speed traps.  The facilities at Canaan Valley Resort are really hard to beat and for me it is right in the middle of best roads in the state too.

[cognosticator]

Here is a site you will see outside of Thomas on 219

[garry]

FWIW, Pipestem is already sold out (less than 30 rooms left) for the end of September 2008...

[thompsonian]

I have a buddy who owns a local shop and is trying to get a new place up and running. If you need door prizes, I'll see if I can get him to throw something that way. Maybe a set of tires or something like that. If it works out, a route could be planned to seing up his way and can take a group shot off of his rooftop. But it will all depend on what happens here in the next few days for that. I'll still ask if he can donate something for a door prize.

[chromekid01]

Well it looks like a great ride for me and the Multistrada so i am in where ever it ends up being....and june is awsome as it will give me some advance scouting of roads to take thru that area on my NY NY trip in september:)

[tomballos]

Late September in WV at the Canaan Valley Resort gets my vote.  

[garry]

Well it looks like a great ride for me and the Multistrada so i am in where ever it ends up being....and june is awsome as it will give me some advance scouting of roads to take thru that area on my NY NY trip in september:)

Don't know where you got June from, but it absolutely won't happen in June because that is STN National month.

[Scratch33]

Late September in WV at the Canaan Valley Resort gets my vote.  

+1

"Plan B", if there's any problems w/reservations, would be same timeframe at the Marlinton Motor Inn.

[Bug R]

FJRski mentioned the Briar Inn in Lewisburg in one of the ESTN08 topics.  The FJR Eastern Owner's Meeting was there last September and the facilities were excellent.  Although I have been riding WV since the late 60's, it was my first exposure to more southern coal country roads (like there is anywhere in WV which isn't coal country).  I, personally, much prefer the area from Marlinton north.  Just don't like all the little speed traps.  The facilities at Canaan Valley Resort are really hard to beat and for me it is right in the middle of best roads in the state too.

I attended both events, Canaan Valley IMHO is the better option.
Chris

[Huron52]

Had Breakfast/lunch at Cannan Valley a few years back. The place looked very good for hosting this sort of thing.  

 Not to sure about the little speed traps.  The LEO's never bother me until I rode with a certain guy. He attracted more than just police... The wild life seemed to want to come out and say HI as well.  

[garry]

I just talked with the group reservations woman at Canaan. Room prices have gone up, taxes have gone up (extra 3%) and there is a new $6/day "resort fee", but since I've been bringing regular business there for several years she is going to try to keep rooms as the same rate as last year and skip the "resort fee". Not sure she can do anything about the increase in taxes. We'll see... She is off to talk to her boss about it.

[jackinthebox4]

making it just before or just after the Motogp race in Indianapolis would be a super September.

[garry]

I just got off the phone with a very nice lady from Marlington Motor Inn. Looks pretty good to me. Hotel and bar on site. Pool with jacuzzi *might* be open, but they generally close it around Labor Day unless the weather stays nice. They have a conference room we can use for stuff (maps, welcome table, etc). Restaurant on site is big enough to hold the group from what I've been told.

Marlington is about an hour south of Canaan on route 219, also in the middle of lots of great riding. Tons of overlap between the two areas. Same tourist attractions, same great roads.

1 adult in a room with two double beds: $53.95/night (tax included)
2 adults in a room with two double beds: $63.95 (tax included)

All rooms have cable TV, refrigerator, coffee maker. No wireless internet. Cell phones don't tend to work there due to being so close to Greenbank Observatory.

Once I get quotes/etc in writing and clarify any questions ya'll might have, I'll put it up to a vote/poll between Canaan and Marlington. The dates I requested in both cases were Sept 26 - 28.

[sprint_st]

Actually the best riding in WV is during the week so, why not a Monday through Friday event.   It won't collide with anything major and we can have the main party on Wednesday night so riders who can't spend the entire time can slide their travel days to fit. I would recommend Spruce Knob Lake campground.  It is gravel for most of the way but the view is tremendous.  You can drink and make as much racket as you want cause only the deer and bear will get upset.  Price is good, but you get what you pay for, a tent pad.  Better gas up cause there ain't none up there.  Dual sporters should love it.  If you are lucky enough to be there during a thunderstorm it is a once in a lifetime experience to see trees exploding all around.   It has other excitement too, going out into the woods at night to get firewood and picking up rattlesnakes.  Food is great, you pick it, you cook it.  Sorry guys, been a long morning and I'm losing what few screws that are still left    Keep up the good work Garry, you name the time and place and I'll be there.

[R Doug]

Marlinton sounds like a good deal!

I just got off the phone w/ Gretta at Snowshoe Resort.  They could put us at the base of the mountain for $72 / night / room+ tax.  

For $20 per person, we can have a group buffet dinner at Brandy's Restaurant.   The buffet restaurant also serves breakfast at $10.00 per person.

Personally, I don't have anything against Canaan.  But, I believe staying a bit further south provides better day trip options to the north and south of the area.  

[JoBu]

Way to go, Garry!!    Marlington sounds like a great deal.  Great prices, great riding, great company...who can ask for more???  

Cheers,

Joe

[maddjack]

I just got off the phone with a very nice lady from Marlington Motor Inn. Looks pretty good to me. Hotel and bar on site. Pool with jacuzzi *might* be open, but they generally close it around Labor Day unless the weather stays nice. They have a conference room we can use for stuff (maps, welcome table, etc). Restaurant on site is big enough to hold the group from what I've been told.

Marlington is about an hour south of Canaan on route 219, also in the middle of lots of great riding. Tons of overlap between the two areas. Same tourist attractions, same great roads.

1 adult in a room with two double beds: $53.95/night (tax included)
2 adults in a room with two double beds: $63.95 (tax included)

All rooms have cable TV, refrigerator, coffee maker. No wireless internet. Cell phones don't tend to work there due to being so close to Greenbank Observatory.

Once I get quotes/etc in writing and clarify any questions ya'll might have, I'll put it up to a vote/poll between Canaan and Marlington. The dates I requested in both cases were Sept 26 - 28.

In reality it might be a good change of pace for us Canaan regulars and rt 39 is that much closer

[R Doug]

In reality it might be a good change of pace for us Canaan regulars and rt 39 is that much closer

+1 !!!

[kendenton]

In reality it might be a good change of pace for us Canaan regulars and rt 39 is that much closer

+2 on Rt 39

[R Doug]

I'm 100% for the Marlinton Motor Inn  

http://www.marlintonmotorinn.com/

[sprint_st]

Put me down for a pre-vote   on both the dates and location.  Great job Garry!!!

[garry]

I just discovered that Marlinton has an Autumn Festival at the end of September, including a Roadkill Cook-Off. We might be there at the same time. Could be a fun post-ride diversion. Doubt it gets crazy busy...

http://www.pccoc.com/Roadkill.cfm

[R Doug]

Work is a little slow this afternoon and I just had a cup of coffee.

So... check out some of the indicative routes you can take from Marlinton, WV.  First, Here's an idea of everything within a 2.5 hour ride from Marlinton...



Next, here are two indicative routes that are approximately 300 miles each.  The first one picks up some of our favorite roads as if we stayed at the Canaan area and the next one picks up some twisties we would not try to make from Canaan.

This first one includes the best section of US 219, Rt. 250 over Cheat Mountain, 28 up towards Petersburg (instead of Petersburg, you could cut off on Smoke Hole Road), Rt. 33 over to VA and back, Rt. 21 and 614 down to Rt. 250 again to pick up the good part over through Monterey, Rt. 600 down to pick up Rt. 39, and back to Marlinton.



This one picks up Rt. 39 over to Richwood and a few routes to get you down to Lewisburg.  Next, you pick up Rt. 311 to New Castle (awesome!) then a quick run past Roanoke to pick up the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Follow the BRP all the way up to Lexington, VA where you can hit the Goshen Pass (incredible!) followed by the best section of Rt. 39 back to Marlinton (Whoot!!!).

[Cricket1]

Garry:

Marlinton sounds good to me. As R Doug pointed out, the more southern location gives route options not really available when staying at Caanan valley.

Late Sept. should be great weather. I've done tours that weekend for the last 3 years in SE OH, WV or Ky, and it is perfect.

Count me in!!

[MK96xj]

I was on the BRP just north of Buchanan VA on my way back from Thanksgiving. That was some twisty goodness even in the car. Made the wife and daugther sick

[R Doug]

Even more great potential day trips...





I can see I'll need to plan on at least 4 days for ESTN 2008 if it's in Marlinton.  

[garry]

Doug must be really bored at work, but there are no shortage of awesome twisty rides. Not crazy tight switchbacks, but hundreds of miles of stuff that makes you giggle doing 50 - 70 MPH on them. I'm betting I can round up info from ADVrider on the "Parsons Loop" for an all-day big bike friendly, lots of dirt roads type ride.

[tankhead]

marlinton.  but let's make it the last week of august before school starts in the fall..........PLEASE>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

[rich_oh]

been wanting to do a multi-day ride out of marlinton.  perfect spot IMO.  can't wait!

[fjrSKI]

Marlinton & Sep 26 sounds like a winning combo to me.
Super job Gary.  Rooms are reasonable, and there is camping nearby.

[gforce]

Couldn't make the nat'l last year, so I'm glad it's gonna be in West by God VA.

Can't tell what my schedule looks like that far ahead, but I'll have it circled, for sure.

Thanks to Garry for the excellent front-end work.

[chornbe]

been wanting to do a multi-day ride out of marlinton.  perfect spot IMO.  can't wait!

Marlinton is a GREAT home base. Last time I was down there, we did one compass direction each day, and did 200-400 mile loops. What a fantastic long weekend.  

[sprint_st]

Even more great potential day trips...
I can see I'll need to plan on at least 4 days for ESTN 2008 if it's in Marlinton.  

Good news about riding in WV, no shortage of great roads.
Bad news, never enough time to ride them all.    

[RickC1957]

I have ridden twice in WV...the Nationals, even thought I was sicker than a dog great riding And recently with a friend who is originally from Athens, OH. I'm hoping to do more STN rides in '08..so this would be a good one from me...late August to late September I can make work.

[Ron_NC]

I've never ridin a motorcycle in WV and I'm so looking forward to this  

[Scratch33]

I've never ridin a motorcycle in WV and I'm so looking forward to this  

Just don't ride too far off the beaten path and you'll do fine.

[R Doug]

Just don't ride too far off the beaten path and you'll do fine.

It's 10x safer then say.... Baltimore.  

[Scratch33]

It's 10x safer then say.... Baltimore.  

True. Ya might get a cap busted in yo' ass in Bawlmer.

...but they wouldn't call ya purdy an' make ya squeel lahk ah pig first.  

[sprint_st]

It's 10x safer then say.... Baltimore.

Now, now Doug, not exactly factual, depends on perspective    In Baltimore you can get picked off by the traffic or by gunfire at the 7/11.  In WV you get picked off by pressing the limits of your ability because those roads are so addictive and your enjoyment over rules your common sense.  Not only that, WV has dashed lines in the turns, and more often than not when you pass a car, the drive looks upon it as an invitation to race    Yep, last Sept at the FJR EOM, I put at least four major down payments on the farm by thinking those beautiful roads were my private race track.

[fjrSKI]

You forgot about the gravel, that adds to the excitement, especially when you are passing a car on one of those 2-lane corners and the rear steps out a little, not that I would know who that was...

[R Doug]

True. Ya might get a cap busted in yo' ass in Bawlmer.

...but they wouldn't call ya purdy an' make ya squeel lahk ah pig first.  

True.  Just run when you start hearing the banjos and you'll be good.  

Not only that, WV has dashed lines in the turns, and more often than not when you pass a car, the drive looks upon it as an invitation to race    

I've noticed that myself a few times and couldn't believe where WVDOH have put some of the dashed lines!  

[maddjack]

Hey Doug you know also if you run 39 all the way to lexington you can run the short section of 60 to Buena vista and RT501a very good road

[R Doug]

Hey Doug you know also if you run 39 all the way to lexington you can run the short section of 60 to Buena vista and RT501a very good road

That's right.  I remember you talking about that at the RAT meet this year.  I'll need to modify my route.

[maddjack]

That's right.  I remember you talking about that at the RAT meet this year.  I'll need to modify my route.

Just run about the first half,no need to go all the way to Lynchburg for the best of it

[SWriverstone]

I'm all for Marlinton!  

And with respect to all Doug's excellent routes...you guys know I'm gonna spend some time in that area before the meet and explore all the little teeny switchbacky goatpath backroads!   I might also explore some dual-sporting roads (nothing hairy, just some nice pavement/dirt/gravel combos).  

That way we'll have a nice variety of routes for people to choose: from wide-open state highways to unpaved mountain passes!

Scott

[Corbeau]

Heya, goat-path seeker! Go forth and find me some unmarked-yet-paved roads I'll never forget!

Marlinton sounds pretty hot, gang...

[servicerifle]

Heya, goat-path seeker! Go forth and find me some unmarked-yet-paved roads I'll never forget!

Marlinton sounds pretty hot, gang...

Same here Scott, I really like those narrow roads with no markings (but still paved).

Ahh, ESTN research has thus begun.  You guys will enjoy the pre-riding as much as ESTN itself.

[maddjack]

I'm all for Marlinton!  

And with respect to all Doug's excellent routes...you guys know I'm gonna spend some time in that area before the meet and explore all the little teeny switchbacky goatpath backroads!   I might also explore some dual-sporting roads (nothing hairy, just some nice pavement/dirt/gravel combos).  

That way we'll have a nice variety of routes for people to choose: from wide-open state highways to unpaved mountain passes!

Scott

I love some of the roads you have shared before,they can be vary fun and senic

[farmer fred]

Just don't ride too far off the beaten path and you'll do fine.

Except he's from Rabun County, Georgia.

[garry]

I guess this thread has pretty much run its course. It seems the discussion has narrowed things down to three poll choices:

* Canaan Valley Resort on Sept 26 - 28 ( $95.20 per room per night, all taxes/etc included, double occ)

* Marlinton Motor Inn on Sept 26 - 28 ($63.95 per room per night, all taxes/etc included, double occ)

* I hate the Sept 26-28 date and want to vote on date separate from lodging.


Anyone have a problem with me running a poll with those choices? Need other different choices? I'm sensing that Marlinton has lots of support due to the $30/night savings and being in an equally nice location for good riding and touristy stuff.

[Scratch33]

I'd suggest two polls:  one for location; a subsequent for dates.

[R Doug]

Anyone have a problem with me running a poll with those choices? Need other different choices? I'm sensing that Marlinton has lots of support due to the $30/night savings and being in an equally nice location for good riding and touristy stuff.

I concur... two polls.  One w/ date and the other w/ location.  Though, I believe Marlinton will win the location battle.  If we can have ESTN a bit earlier, those involved with teaching could make it (Corbeau, Tankhead, others?).  

I can't remember, when's the MotoGP race at Indy?  Isn't the weekend of the 20th?

[sprint_st]

I concur... two polls.  One w/ date and the other w/ location.  Though, I believe Marlinton will win the location battle.  If we can have ESTN a bit earlier, those involved with teaching could make it (Corbeau, Tankhead, others?).  

I can't remember, when's the MotoGP race at Indy?  Isn't the weekend of the 20th?

I'm with you Doug.  Put all the weekends in Sept or whatever month and to hell anything else going on in the Universe.  The numbers will take care of the competition with other factors.  We can't please everyone.

[gforce]

Every time we think we've got this settled, there's another poll.  

Look, I was for the "late-spring" timeframe but, as I noted on a local board in my area, if you're willing to set it up, your vote does -- and should -- count more.

I hear the voices for a pre-school timeframe in the fall, presumably pre-Labor Day.  But, just as that makes it possible for some to attend, it makes it impossible for others, like me, who have family vacation time before Labor Day.  Plus, many schools start in late August now.  (FWIW, that's why I like mid-June, because many schools are out by then but most vacations haven't started.  "Camp time," as they say.)

Bottom line: If you're setting this up, don't drown yourself in polls; just do it and let us know when and where.

[garry]

OK. Two polls: one for date followed by one for location. The reason for date first is that some possible locations (such as Pipestem State Park) are already heavily booked for 2008, so we need to decide on date, then see where there is room. I doubt there will be room issues at Canaan or Marlinton, but Pipestem could be an option if we pick a weekend they are not busy.

Everybody has their own schedules for vacations, other bike rallies, etc they want to work around. There is no way one date will make EVERYONE happy. But lets try to find *some* consensus on a small number of dates to pick from. As with the National poll, I will set it up so that you can change your vote if desired (to support your favorite contender if you initially voted for a loser).

I'm sure there will be a Region 6 "Meet and Eat" in the spring, possibly early May. But there was some support for the weekend before Memorial Day. Is that too close to the National (under a month) for people that want to do both events? Mid-May can be very nice and it can also be pretty cool. Mothers Day is the 11th. That basically leaves the weekend of 16-18 as the only viable option.

The National will be in mid-June give or take a week, so June is out.

July is possible. School is out. Mid-Ohio VMD is at the end of the month. Independence Day at the beginning. Weather is the usual hot (80s) and muggy with a 30% chance of rain. Any interest in mid-July (11-13 or 18-20)? Note that the Laguna Seca MotoGP event is the 20th for anyone traveling to that (or wanting to watch it live). I guess that puts the best July date as the 11-13.

August is also possible. ESTN 2005 (Stowe) was in August.  Mid-Ohio Superbike in early Aug. Kids go back to school in late August. Lots of family vacations though (my own included). Weather is the usual hot (80s) and muggy with a 30% chance of rain. Any interest in mid-August?

September has had some solid support. Weather is usually very nice. Kids are in school. Labor Day is the 8th. MotoGP at Indy is the 14th. That leaves the 19-21 (Fri-Sun) and 26-28 (Fri-Sun) options.

October can be nice, but it can also be quite cool at night and in early morning. Peak foliage tends be the last two weeks of October. Lots of leaf peeper tourists about (booking rooms). Traffic is only a little worse than normal.


Our possible locations are Canaan Valley, Marlinton Motor Inn, and (maybe) Pipestem State Park if they have room on the selected weekend.

Let's see some discussion on dates now to get candidates for the Date poll.

[maddjack]

I thought this date shit was settled,Sept any time I don't care what week.Please send Garry a bag of ice for his headache.

[garry]

I thought there was substantial vocal support for end of September too Jack, but as soon as I posted that, the next few posts said to make it two separate polls. Sigh... Sometimes trying to give everyone a voice is a pain in the ass.

[sprint_st]

I thought this date shit was settled,Sept any time I don't care what week.Please send Garry a bag of ice for his headache.

Jack, I'm with you.  Not only that, I thought it was definitely Marlinton.  Garry, at least it's crazy Friday.  My recommendation is to knock back a 6 pack of Yingerlingers and let the bottles do the deciding  

[JoBu]

Let's see some discussion on dates now to get candidates for the Date poll.

Maybe Garry should pick a date and we'll just have to work around it.    Man, sorry for all the headaches.  I'm sure once this is all done and settled, you won't have to buy one beer with your own money as the attendees will owe you big time.  

But, since you've requested discussion, I vote for either of the latter dates in September.  The crowds should be small, the weather cool (but not too cold), rates are usually cheaper, and it doesn't seem to interfere with too many events.  If I had to choose between the two September dates, I'll pick the 19-21.  I'll be looking forward to seeing the polls.  And again, thanks to Garry for all the effort he's putting into this.  

Cheers,

Joe

[tonyfjr2006]

I am confused as well, I thought it was settled for late September and Marlinton. Why are we " voting " again on something that seems to be already decided? Garry I appreciate that you have taken on the arduous task of ESTN 2008, but it seems that a unanimous decision is made and then it is put to a vote again. How about if you are going to " host " ESTN, that you just make a decision and then just stick to it.

I am not trying to flame you in anyway, though I am sure some will see it this way, but enough with the voting. Let's just make a decision and those that can make it will.

[R Doug]

I guess this thread has pretty much run its course. It seems the discussion has narrowed things down to three poll choices:

* Canaan Valley Resort on Sept 26 - 28 ( $95.20 per room per night, all taxes/etc included, double occ)

* Marlinton Motor Inn on Sept 26 - 28 ($63.95 per room per night, all taxes/etc included, double occ)

* I hate the Sept 26-28 date and want to vote on date separate from lodging.


Anyone have a problem with me running a poll with those choices? Need other different choices? I'm sensing that Marlinton has lots of support due to the $30/night savings and being in an equally nice location for good riding and touristy stuff.

Sorry Garry, I was concurring w/ you on this post about having two polls.  FWIW, since you've taken the lead... If you set a date and place, I'll be there and provide ANY support you need to help w/ the event.  Granted, I am attending the MotoGP race.  But, I doubt that weekend would win any votes anyhow because there appears to be a good many of us going.

If one based a poll on posts re: last weekend in Sept. and taking place in Marlinton, that would be the winners right now.

You're the leader, I'll just follow your lead.  


Signed,

R Doug
Will Work to Ride

[tomballos]

Yup,,, I gotta jump on the band wagon here.  I thought we decided on the last weekend in September and Marlington was on top for lodging.  Still has my vote.

[garry]

I posted a Date poll so that there is little/no room for bitching or whining about short-circuiting the process. Pick a date. Change your mind if needed. Poll closes in 7 days. As stated in the poll, if nothing else, it's an official way to gauge which weekend in September is preferred.

[fjrSKI]

Yup,,, I gotta jump on the band wagon here.  I thought we decided on the last weekend in September and Marlington was on top for lodging.  Still has my vote.

++1  Looks like a winner to me.

You cannot make everyone happy.  I'm happy with Marlington, but I would vote for Canaan Valley, I'll be glad to ride anywhere.  Pick a time and place, you got my vote.

[stefrrr]

Is there a poll for location? If not, I'd like to put my vote in for marlington. It sounds good, and fits my budget.  

[Guy]

Is there a poll for location? If not, I'd like to put my vote in for marlington. It sounds good, and fits my budget.  

I'm sold on Marlinton as well. They have a pool table   Yay!  

[stefrrr]

I wonder if we can strap Ray's pool cues to the GIVI bag?  

[garry]

Is there a poll for location? If not, I'd like to put my vote in for marlington. It sounds good, and fits my budget.  

There will be (just to follow process), although I suspect it's a no-brainer. Most people are going to take the $30/night cheaper room at Marlington. That'll buy some gas and/or beer.

[gforce]

Don't bother with a location poll unless somebody makes a case for it and others want the vote.

Marlinton is a no-brainer.

[fjrSKI]

Is it Marlinton or Marlington?

Google gives 2 spellings and 3 locations.

And does it matter?  I have a feeling I'll know it when I get there.

[gforce]

My old Rand McNally shows but a single "Marlinton" (pop. 1206) at the junction of US 219 and WV 39.

Just surrounded by "Scenic Routes."  

[garry]

Is it Marlinton or Marlington?

Google gives 2 spellings and 3 locations.

And does it matter?  I have a feeling I'll know it when I get there.

It's Marlinton (no G). I know I've misspelled it many times. Still do, even though I know better. Look 50 miles south of Elkins on route 219 (where 39 cuts across it east/west). That's it. In the middle of (fast) twisty heaven.

BTW, I just got the info packet from the Marlinton Motor Inn. Their attached restaurant offers lots of complete dinners for $8.95 (entree, choice of potato, choice one veggie, salad). I'm sure we can put something together for a group dinner there, perhaps ordering off an abbreviated menu where everything costs the same. Or something like that...

[fjrSKI]

Thanks, Garry.  I was playing around with my GPS, and went to enter the exact coordinates.  A Google search found multiple spellings and multiple locations.  One location appears to be their business office, the second is probably the resort, and I'm guessing the third might be a campground or other property owned by the proprietor.  Not the first time I've gotten results like this on a Google search.  Amazing what you find on the internet.  As far as finding my way there, I figured I would just wait for some sport bike to go by that was carrying some luggage and headed in the right general direction and follow it.

[gforce]

Were these places far apart?

Because, with a population of around 1200, it's probably pretty hard to get lost in Marlinton.  

[Scratch33]

It'll be hard to miss the Marlinton Motor Inn.  It's north of town on Route 219; almost to Edray.

[fjrSKI]

It'll be hard to miss the Marlinton Motor Inn.  It's north of town on Route 219; almost to Edray.

Not a problem, Thanks.

[mjrfd99]

+1 on Canaan Valley- we camp and they have a real nice campground there. Just there in Aug. You woun't be disapointed.

[sprint_st]

Hey Frank,
Didn't you go through Marlinton at EOM 07?  I know on Saturday you were to the west of it, but I would have thought on Sunday you went right through it on 219.  If you sneezed you might have missed it

[fjrSKI]

I probably went by it a half-dozen times.  As a cartographer, you'll probably appreciate this.  When i saw the multiple spellings and various Google map locations, I just had to post up about it.  I don't think some folks understood what i was trying to say and they tried to help me out.  I apologize, because  I don't think there is a cure for what i got.  Being as anal as I am, I wanted to load the exact location in my GPS, so I could estimate the distance there.  Why, because it's cold, I'm bored, and this is as close to actually riding as I can get.  Truth of the matter is, once I get on the road, if I see something interesting, I'll probably change course and take off in that direction.  Did it last year on my way to ESTN, and had a heck of a good ride on the way down.  

PS I passed Marlinton on Friday, after about 4 hours in those drenching "scattered showers", and remember wishing that we were staying there instead of the Briar, which was still another 30 miles down the pike.   I got 46 mpg that afternoon, that's the highest mileage I've even seen on my FJR, probably because we never went over 50 mph, and I never want to see mileage that good ever again!;-)

[sprint_st]

If they run that Autumn Harvest Festival the same weekend, Saturday morning launches better be at OH Dark Thirty, cause the streets of Marlinton will be flat constipated by noon.  Kinda the opposite of ESTN07 when the races in Charlotte pulled the traffic away from Sparta.  I really don't care about other bike events, the ESTN will pull enough to have fun no matter what is going on elsewhere.  I do care about fighting traffic in the twisties.  I guess you can get out early against the tide and come back late, again, against the flow.

[hig4s]

Just a note,, I just got back from Canaan Valley (MTA touring group I belong to had their National there last week) and while it was still excellent overall, for those staying in the lodge they just bought all new mattresses and went with extra firm, my wife hated them. And also they have changed the chef or restaurant management since 06 as the food is not near as good as it was then.  

Also over at Seneca Caverns, they are now closed Monday and Tuesday, and the restaurant there (which got very good ratings) is closed permanently.

On the plus side, there is a new restaurant just a few miles toward Davis from the lodge called Big Jim's. good food, lots of variety and arcade.. If you stop, feed the fish.

Other than that is it pretty much as it was in 06.

[sprint_st]

Just a note,, I just got back from Canaan Valley (MTA touring group I belong to had their National there last week) and while it was still excellent overall, for those staying in the lodge they just bought all new mattresses and went with extra firm, my wife hated them. And also they have changed the chef or restaurant management since 06 as the food is not near as good as it was then.  

Also over at Seneca Caverns, they are now closed Monday and Tuesday, and the restaurant there (which got very good ratings) is closed permanently.

On the plus side, there is a new restaurant just a few miles toward Davis from the lodge called Big Jim's. good food, lots of variety and arcade.. If you stop, feed the fish.

Other than that is it pretty much as it was in 06.

Just spent three days at Canaan Valley.  Food was great, no problem with the mattresses, and I loved the hot tub after a long ride.  I guess a lot depends on the eye of the beholder.  Food hours are tricky and I'm more of a  pizza and burgers kinda guy rather than fancy stuff so I'd rather go up the road anyway.  The Sunday breakfast buffet was FANTASTIC at the resort.  At $58 a night it is one of the best bargains around. Roads are still great, rain still sucks, BUT the truck traffic on 93, 42, 32, US50, US219 and that whole general area surrounding has hit levels I have not seen in over 40 years of riding that area.

[hig4s]

Just spent three days at Canaan Valley.  Food was great, no problem with the mattresses, and I loved the hot tub after a long ride.  I guess a lot depends on the eye of the beholder.  Food hours are tricky and I'm more of a  pizza and burgers kinda guy rather than fancy stuff so I'd rather go up the road anyway.  The Sunday breakfast buffet was FANTASTIC at the resort.  At $58 a night it is one of the best bargains around. Roads are still great, rain still sucks, BUT the truck traffic on 93, 42, 32, US50, US219 and that whole general area surrounding has hit levels I have not seen in over 40 years of riding that area.

The mattresses didn't bother me either, but you know, if the passenger is not happy, no one is happy.. I thought the pizza/burger snack bar was actually better than the fancy restaurant this time.   The hot tub was great as always.. Also I saw a lot more deer this year then in 06, but unlike 06, none of them actually ran in front of me.  In 06 I had to slow several times for deer, and had to brake hard once.

[sprint_st]

The mattresses didn't bother me either, but you know, if the passenger is not happy, no one is happy.. I thought the pizza/burger snack bar was actually better than the fancy restaurant this time.   The hot tub was great as always.. Also I saw a lot more deer this year then in 06, but unlike 06, none of them actually ran in front of me.  In 06 I had to slow several times for deer, and had to brake hard once.

I like the burger place too but it closes at 5 pm during the week and that sucks.  You are right on the money about the deer.  I saw more fawn's on this trip than anytime in my life, and I used to live in PA.  I had a run in with one on the way up down near Hungry Mother in VA.  This has to be hear say because I didn't see it.  Apparently a deer tried to hitch a ride on the FJR.  The person behind me said it jumped from an embankment and looked like it was going to land on my rear seat but I rode out from under it because it landed just behind me.  I didn't see anything because I was dodging gravel and hauled over in a turn.  If I had I would have filled my depends.

[guinzomoto]

Marlinton is a great hub for the event.  Old Clark Inn is ideal but small and Marlinton Inn is OK but not that great.  Blackwater Falls State Park on the other hand is much prettier than Canaan, socked in forested mountains and has good camping, cabins and a lodge with a magnificent view of the falls and an overlook that drops down, down down.  Nelson and Andrea also sell a book called the West Virginia Rider's Guide that details all the best sport riding in the area plus camping eating etc.  Also available at RidersGuides.com

[R Doug]

Marlinton is a great hub for the event.  Old Clark Inn is ideal but small and Marlinton Inn is OK but not that great.  Blackwater Falls State Park on the other hand is much prettier than Canaan, socked in forested mountains and has good camping, cabins and a lodge with a magnificent view of the falls and an overlook that drops down, down down.  Nelson and Andrea also sell a book called the West Virginia Rider's Guide that details all the best sport riding in the area plus camping eating etc.  Also available at RidersGuides.com

While I agree there are better places to stay around Canaan and Blackwater Falls, we've pretty much exhausted those areas in past meets and are looking for something further south to pick up the good roads south, west, and east of Marlinton.  The rationalization of staying in Marlinton has been discussed thoroughly in the history of this thread.  Granted, I realize how time consuming it would be to catch up on this one.  

With so may great roads, who cares where we sleep?  

I see this is your first post.  Welcome to STN.  

[photomd]

Woohoo...I'm in.

But I don't know where I'm staying: Ross, where we stayin'?

 

[guinzomoto]

Six pages of posts, yes I scanned them and read many.  How about Beckley? If sleeping is not an issue (who cares really) then there are lots of choices in Beckley.  Downtown is pretty cool, there are a couple of bike shops, camping right downtown in a nice little city park, decent restaurants and a zillion hotels.  Riding in the New River Gorge area if you know where to go is a blast.

[R Doug]

Marlinton is already set in stone and a lot of people have reservations already.  

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,19324.0.html

Get a room and join us.  Besides, the weekend we're there is the same weekend as the famous Road Kill Cookoff contest!  

[rfulcher]

Woohoo...I'm in.

But I don't know where I'm staying: Ross, where we stayin'?

 

I resemble that remark

Where else but----Marlinton Motor Inn----

Ross

[JamminJere]

I spoke with the Marlinton Motor Inn this Morning, 08.09.08 to confirm my reservation for ESTN. The nice lady said they still have 16 rooms available for Friday the 26th and 15 rooms available for the 27th.

I told her I"d post that, and we'd try to "fill her up"....

I hope she didn't take it the wrong way..