This is an awesome challenging gravel route with two significant climbs and great views of the Ozarks. You will feel lost but you are never really that far from civilization.
Low Gap Loop Directions
- Depart from MopedU. Head south (left) on 71/College Ave. Continue down 71 until you hit the intersection at 15th St.
- Take a left onto 15th St. at the next stoplight take right onto Morningside Dr.
- In 2 miles take a left (right hand curve) onto Wilson Hollow Rd. aka Tilly Willy. This is a very scenic stretch and will shortly turn into gravel.
- Veer right onto Shaeffer Rd. This is a really fun 3 mile gravel section that many people ride or run. It is also a coveted STRAVA segment.
- At the stop sign hang a left onto Wallin Mtn. Rd. Here you will encounter the 3 mile Wallin Mtn. climb 540 ft gain. This is a stair step climb with the steepest pitches at the beginning and end. Some incredible views and plenty of relief in between. Once you see the tower you will encounter the next sector of gravel.
- Veer left at about mile 13 on to W32 Trace Branch Rd. You will descend for several miles.
- At about mile 17 you will take a right on to WC 45/Parker Branch Rd. A great stretch of gravel.
- Around mile 20 the Low Gap Climb will really pick up.
- At mile 21 take right turn onto Low Gap Rd. the climb continues for a couple more miles.
- After you peak at round mile 23 you will be treated with a fun rolling descent.
- At mile 26 take left on to 30/Mineral Springs Rd.
- Shortly thereafter you encounter a jaw dropping 3 mile descent into West Fork. Be sure to proceed with caution. There are some scary steep bits with turns.
- At the stop sign take a right onto 71. Proceed on 71 for 3 miles. At the left hand curve veer right back tracking onto Schaeffer Rd./Tilly Willy.
- Back track your way to the starting point of MopedU.
To clarify – take a right onto 45/Parker Branch Road, not a left.
It’s a great ride!
Thanks Keith, route correction has been made!
Great loop, thanks for the directions! Rode with Keith yesterday.