Recap: Rose Farm Gravel
Two riders headed out to explore an entirely unknown route that turned out to be fantastic. Amazing vistas, challenging climbs and descents, a scenic covered bridge (a favorite swimming hole for the locals), views of the Muskingum River, ATV/side-by-side shenanigans, and plenty of gravel (more toward the east). We did a bit of quick exploring at the old (and recently removed) Crooksville Dam but it was too muddy. It would be worth going back to check those out based on the satellite imagery. A mechanical about 5 miles from the end resulted in a loss of front shifting for one rider, so we headed straight back to the car on 669 and missed the end of the route. We ended with right about 36 miles and 3300 feet of climbing. It was hot and sunny all day and unfortunately the wide open vistas meant parts of the route had little shade.
There is definitely lots more to explore here and we will be going back to do so. We passed a gravel road called Ogg Lane (how perfect is that) and it would be cool to extend the route into Malta to check out 199 (McClune), 196 (Fox Hunter), and 56 (Poplar Ridge). Note: Do NOT ride in reverse and try climbing up Oil Spring; you'll be walking!
