Day 71 – Chippokes State Park, Surry, VA to Machicomoco State Park, Hayes, VA

10/21/2026

Leaving Chippokes State Park

We’re now getting into more populated areas with higher traffic density. However, Virginia highway engineers have not yet figured out how to build roads with adequate shoulders for biking.

Today’s route was 38.6 miles, with under 1000 ft of elevation gain. It began with a ferry ride across the James River from Scotland to Sandy Bay, VA.

Mark was in the truck, while John, Greg, & Rolf cycled.

The route tried to take the cyclists

Departing the ferry

through a gated community, into which they were denied entry.

John & Greg breeching a gate to get out of a private place

Yorktown monument

Rolf having lunch in Yorktown

The route was supposed to include nearly 17% unpaved trail but required a lot of improvising. Greg & John rode 42 miles and Rolf, who rode around Yorktown for a bit, clocked 44 miles.

The group found Machicomoco Park to be beautiful with clean and well appointed services.