I recently received an email from our friend Penelope Davenport, who’s in charge of the outdoor education programs at the James River Park, about a really cool event they’ve got coming up. Think of this as a warmup for those who’ll be eclipse chasing on August 21.

Here’s the link to the FB event page. Info below.

Biking, camping, and stargazing, all in one event?! Oh, yes. After a scenic and challenging 45-mile ride along the Virginia Capital Trail, we’ll camp under the stars at Chickahominy Riverfront Park and watch the Perseid Meteor Shower. At its peak, we can expect to see between 60 and 100 meteors per hour! 

SCHEDULE: 
Saturday, August 12th 
1:30pm: Participants meet at Great Shiplock Park, load personal camping gear into the James River Park Trailer
2:00pm: Depart toward Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Evening: Arrive at the campsite; enjoy a delicious dinner with new friends.
Night: Watch tons of meteors!

Sunday, August 13th
Morningtime: Eat scrumptious breakfast
Hit the Trail!
Afternoon: Return victorious to Great Shiplock Park

We have mountain bikes you can borrow, though we suggest bringing your own bike if you have one. We recommend a road or commuter bike for this adventure, and unfortunately we don’t have road bikes in our Park fleet.

THIS TRIP IS FULLY SUPPORTED. There will be aid stations every ten miles, and if you feel like riding just part of the distance on your bike and part of the distance in our van, with air conditioning and sweet tunes blasting, you are more than welcome to do so.

PACKING: Bring gear for “glamping”– we’ll haul all of your stuff in our trailer, and if you need to borrow a tent, sleeping pad, or sleeping bag, we can provide them. Email Penelope Davenport (Penelope.Davenport@richmondgov.com) for a detailed packing list of personal items, and with any and all questions.

AGES: 14 years and over. Registration is $100 – proceeds support James River Park outdoor programs for urban youth.