When riders are not in the best shape, one way to ride part of the Southern Epic loop (normally about 30 miles) is to shuttle -- park a ride at the end and drive back to the start. Have not been on Muddy Branch yet this year, so it was VERY nice to be out on that trail. Even conquered the slippery creek crossing and ugly little climb out of it at 3.2 for the first time in what seems like forever. Warm, humid day but aside from sweating like a racehorse, the heat was not too bothersome. And even after a somewhat rainy previous day, there was zero evidence of precipitation on the trails. Could have gone farther but companions were happy to be done where we stopped. Legs felt great; body held up; posture getting there. w/Mark, Dan