The route uses the Virginia Capital Trail from Richmond to Jamestown, where you'll cross the James River on a ferry. The remainder of the route in Virginia follows predominantly rural roads. These roads wander through tobacco and peanut fields over rolling countryside. The route becomes more level in North Carolina. The beach access roads north of Wilmington will be busier during tourist season and on weekends. The Outer Banks Alternate is 73.5 miles longer than the main route. Wind is an important riding factor on the exposed Outer Banks. The inland route is more sheltered, and should be used during stormy weather. Click on enlargement for detail.