The BMW RA 2009 International Rally
Black Forest to Blackwater
Canaan Valley, WV
July 23-26, 2009

The mountains are calling and we must go… back to a place where roads draw us around twists, hairpins and sweeping curves through dense forest, meandering rivers, deep valleys and abundant wildlife.

We, on behalf of the RA, invite you to Canaan Valley, WV for the 2009 rally. The RA held its 2004 rally at this same site only to be chased by Hurricane Ivan.

Canaan Valley was chosen in true RA fashion as an excellent riding venue. This area of West Virginia has some of the most scenic and challenging roads, both pavement and dirt. Getting there is part of the fun, because no matter which direction you come from the roads are great. Canaan Valley Resort sits in the middle of a state park, which in addition to the amenities of the resort offers hiking on nature trails, an 18 Hole golf course, outdoor swimming pool, and nearby ski slopes (offering interesting summer activities). The resort offers an indoor pool, climbing wall and a full service restaurant, a snack bar, and lounge, all available to rally goers.

Camping will be included as part of the rally fee, but if you’re not up to roughing it, there are multiple lodging options, stay at the resort, rent a cabin or reserve a spot in the state park’s regular campground with full hookups. This venue is spread out through the park and resort so shuttle service will be provided during the rally. The main resort is designated as Rally Central with indoor and outdoor vending, Bier Garden, seminars and food service. There will be nightly entertainment. Rally go-ers can sign up for a variety of motorcycles courses, for road, street or dirt riding.

And then there’s the riding. We will have both organized events, and self-guided tours. Within a short distance from the state park entrance, roads rivaling the most technical beckon to be tackled and GSers have a multitude of choices to spend the day. There are many local attractions. Possible destinations include: Dolly Sods, Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls, Cass Scenic Railroad, Spruce Knob—the options are endless. There is so much to do, we urge you to come early and stay after the rally to enjoy the best of West Virginia.

Gordan, Bert and Bambi
2009 Rally Chairmen