Are you a biking enthusiast looking for your next adventure? Look no further than the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Bike Tour! This 17.6-mile bike tour will take you on a thrilling journey across one of the world’s most impressive engineering feats, while also offering breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding islands. Get ready to pedal and marvel at the beauty of this iconic bridge-tunnel hybrid.
First, let’s start with some background. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, also known as the CBBT, is a 23-mile long bridge-tunnel connecting the Delmarva Peninsula to Virginia Beach. It was opened in 1964 and has since become a beloved landmark and a major transportation route for travelers and locals alike. With an average of 100,000 vehicles crossing every day, it’s safe to say that this bridge-tunnel is a vital part of the region.
But what many people don’t know is that you can actually bike across the CBBT! The idea for the bike tour came about in the late 1970s when a group of cyclists approached the CBBT Commission with the idea of opening the bridge-tunnel to cyclists. After years of planning and negotiations, the first official Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Bike Tour was held in 1987.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. The bike tour starts at the scenic First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach and takes riders across the CBBT to the quaint town of Cape Charles on the Eastern Shore. From there, participants can either turn back and complete the 17.6-mile round trip or continue on to explore the charming town and its surrounding areas.
The ride itself is not for the faint of heart. With an elevation gain of over 200 feet and strong crosswinds, this bike tour is definitely a challenge. But don’t let that discourage you! The sense of accomplishment and the stunning views make it all worth it. Plus, there are designated rest areas along the way where you can take a break and snap some pictures.
Speaking of stunning views, let’s talk about what you’ll see on this tour. As you pedal across the bridge-tunnel, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and its countless islands. You might even spot some dolphins or sea birds along the way. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel’s underwater tunnel, an engineering marvel that is truly a sight to behold.
But the bridge-tunnel isn’t the only highlight of this bike tour. Once you reach Cape Charles, you’ll be greeted with stunning beaches, charming shops and restaurants, and friendly locals. Take some time to explore the town and its rich history before heading back across the CBBT.
Now, for the safety conscious riders out there, rest assured that this bike tour is carefully monitored and controlled by the CBBT Commission. There are designated bike lanes and support vehicles that accompany riders throughout the tour. Plus, all participants are required to wear helmets and follow all traffic rules.
So, are you ready to take on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Bike Tour? Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a unique adventure, this tour is definitely worth adding to your bucket list. Trust us, crossing one of the world’s most impressive bridge-tunnels on two wheels is an experience you won’t soon forget. So grab your bike and get ready for an unforgettable journey across the Chesapeake Bay!
