After losing their son in the early spring of 2015, Paul and Kelly Read decided to create a lasting tribute to Taylor and his love of the trail by erecting a beautiful shelter in Alvarado Park. The shelter was built with the generous donations from the Read’s family, friends and colleagues and the shelter was dedicated later the same year. The one-of-a-kind structure was designed by Taylor’s sister, Megan, and it has become one of the most treasured spots along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Throughout the year you can find someone looking out over the river in quiet reflection or a family gathering for the afternoon or a couple who has chosen this tranquil setting to exchange their wedding vows.
Every October since, the Reads have gathered with family, friends, and community supporters of the Creeper Trail to celebrate Taylor’s life and love of the trail. And now, as autumn approaches, we are making plans for the 10th Annual Rails to River…Ride for Taylor on October 5. As has been our tradition, the day will include a bike ride from the trailhead in Abingdon to the shelter in Alvarado, where we will enjoy a catered lunch and music. Every year, this special day has been more remarkable than the previous, and the continued support is a testament to the love found in family, friends, colleagues and community.
So it is with deep gratitude that the Read family has decided that the 10th Rails to River…Ride for Taylor will bring this special event to a close. Taylor will live in our hearts and minds always and in the future, we look forward to creating new traditions in remembrance and celebration of him each fall.
Your reservation below includes the ride, lunch and a special 10-year commemorative Rails to River…Ride for Taylor tee shirt for $35 per person. Donations in Taylor’s name to the Creeper Trail Conservancy — our partners from the very beginning — can also be made on the form below.
Registration for the ride begins at 8am on Saturday, October 5 at the trail head in Abingdon and we’ll meet in Alvarado at noon for lunch and music!
We look forward to seeing you soon!
