Wrangling Snakes and Dragons
My first pass from Marion down the Back of the Dragon in Virginia was a cautious one. Not only were the multiple curves and switchbacks unfamiliar to me, but the persistent drizzle reduced traction and thick fog reduced visibility at these higher elevations. My ride certainly left no time for daydreaming. I used my GPS, zoomed in on the screen to predict the direction of the road and the severity of radius on the corners I could not see. The road itself was in very good condition and free of loose gravel, but the odd small branch brought down by the weather added to the excitement.
I was camping at the northern end of the Dragon’s Back near Tazewell, so I knew I’d be riding Highway 16 to Marion again – hopefully in drier conditions. So I decided to wait it out. Cavitt’s Creek Campground was new and clean, and camping on a primitive site cost US$10.50. Definitely worth it for the showers and laundry facilities – not to mention I was able to set up under a group pavilion and stay warm and dry while I watched the rain fall in sheets.
After two days and one good book, the
