2012 Root 66 Millstone Grind

The course is located on land with multiple granite quarries. Course distance is 8.5 miles and features 90% single track. The single track is twisty, moderately rooty and rocky, but flows well. It has been described at a 8.5 mile "pump track." There are two moderate climbs (middle of course and towards course end), and the rest of the course it littered with short, steep ramps and grunts in wooded single track. The race course begins at the bottom of a large open field and climbs gently in order to spread racers out before entering the wooded single track. The course then traverses the top of the field and passes the feed zone, the first of two times per lap. After passing the feed zone, racers will descend slightly, then climb again to begin the wooded single track. The single track sections are open enough to pass; however, there are a few tight sections. Course features include roots, granite slabs/chunks/boulders, and sections that cross large partially exposed wire cables that remain from the granite quarrying days. Higher than normal tire pressure is recommended. Large knobby tires are not needed if the course is moist to dry, but riders should consider their own tire preferences to determine what is appropriate for them. At mile 4, racers descend from the woods on a single track roller coaster back to the field area. Once in the field, racers pass the feed zone for a second time per lap. Once past the feed zone, riders gradually climb double track up to the Capital Quarry. From the quarry, racers continue riding the next 4 miles on single track that is similar to the first part of the course; however, this section flows even more smoothly and rides much faster. Racers cross a handful of wooden bridges, one multiple switch back climb, and another gradual double track climb. Following the double track climb, racers descend a tight technical single track downhill onto a shaded, smooth single track, then continue back into the start/finish/lap.