This may be the nicest-looking GNCC of all. The picturesque Steele Creek Campground hosts this one, and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background make this a nice place to be even if we weren’t racing. Campers will appreciate the hookups and the small country store located on the premises.
This is a classic cross-country track too, with plenty of creek crossings, mud bogs and rocks. The track is flowy and fun, but rugged. And the hills, going both up and down, are long and steep. As the race goes on, a lot of tree roots become exposed. This makes for a rough ride when it’s dry and a slick track when it rains. The course also gets faster and faster as more lines open up throughout the weekend.
The soil here can range from brown top soil, to red clay, to sand and back, all in a span of 5 minutes. The sections along the creek can get sandy and rough, while the base of the mountains see loamy brown dirt. However, as you make your way up the hills, it begins to turn into red clay.
The coolest part of the track is the creek crossing near the pits. The track weaves around next to the actual Steele Creek before eventually plunging into it. Then the riders have to duck their heads to get under a concrete bridge before a ton of fans. The weather at Steele Creek can be just as unpredictable as the racing. Being early in the year, it can get cold, so be prepared to dress warm. However, it can also offer up a teaser to the spring days that are just around the corner, so be prepared for all types of weather.
Steele Creek is an actual campground. Hook-ups are available, but separate fees apply for camping. For more information check out Steele Creek Campground’s web page.