Well not EXACTLY the mule stables, but within a few miles -- rode with the mule skinner up to Damascus and got dropped off to ride trails home. There's a fair bit of pavement involved -- a coupla street sections and some paved trail -- but mostly dirt most of the way. First few miles were alllll downhill with a coupla tiny climbs at Mile 3. Was quite disturbed to see FOUR young men on 4-wheelers (couple of them running rich, too, based on the smell of gas) ON THE DAMN TRAIL between Watkins Road and the Seneca bridge. Grrr. Been wondering why the trail seemed wider in that section than remembered.... all of a sudden it was obvious. SMH. Rest of the ride great -- trail hardpacked, fast with zero mud. Creek crossings inconsequential (can we get some rain please?). Might do this on a regular basis, until the skinner objects...