The Top Bike Greenways in Virginia
Biking is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Virginia, whether you're an avid cyclist or just looking for a fun outdoor activity. From scenic routes to challenging trails, the state offers a variety of options for riders of all levels. In this guide, we'll explore the best bike greenways in Virginia, providing you with the information you need to plan your next adventure on two wheels.
NEW RIVER VALLEY TRAIL
Length: 57.7 miles
Trail surfaces: Crushed Stone
The New River Trail Greenway is a 57.7-mile long state park located in southwestern Virginia. The trail follows the beautiful New River and offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and wildlife. The trail is a multi-use path that is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The New River Trail Greenway is also a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The trail winds through the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The New River Trail Greenway is also rich in history and culture, with several historic sites and landmarks along the way, including the Shot Tower, the Fries Viaduct, and the Chestnut Creek School. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or a challenging outdoor adventure, the New River Trail Greenway is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Learn More at: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/new-river-trail
Virginia Capital TRAIL
Length: 51.7 miles
Trail surfaces: Asphalt, Boardwalk
The Virginia Capital Trail is a 51.7-mile long dedicated bike and pedestrian path that runs from Richmond to Jamestown, Virginia. The trail follows the scenic route of the historic colonial road that linked the Virginia capital in Richmond to the first permanent English settlement in America in Jamestown. The trail offers breathtaking views of the James River and the rolling countryside of Virginia. The trail is a great way to explore the rich history and culture of Virginia, with several historic sites and landmarks along the way, including the Chimborazo Medical Museum, the Hollywood Cemetery, and the Tredegar Iron Works. The Virginia Capital Trail is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging bike ride, the Virginia Capital Trail is the perfect destination for anyone who loves history, nature, and outdoor recreation.
Washington and Old Dominion Trail
Length: 45 miles
Trail surfaces: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail is a scenic recreational path that winds through Northern Virginia. Stretching 45 miles, this paved trail follows the historic Washington and Old Dominion Railroad right-of-way, offering breathtaking views of the rolling countryside and suburban areas. The W&OD Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting hikers, bikers, rollerbladers, and horseback riders.
In addition to providing opportunities for recreation, the trail also showcases the rich history and culture of Northern Virginia. Along the way, visitors can explore historic towns, such as Herndon, and landmarks, such as the Chapman DeMary Trail. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible and safe for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a more strenuous workout, the Washington and Old Dominion Trail has something to offer. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, it is an ideal destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors and wants to explore the rich heritage of Northern Virginia.
Virginia Creeper Trail
Length: 34 miles
Trail surfaces: Gravel
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a scenic rail-trail located in southwestern Virginia. This 34-mile long trail follows the historic route of the Virginia-Carolina Railroad and offers breathtaking views of the rolling countryside and the surrounding wilderness. The trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
In addition to providing opportunities for recreation, the Virginia Creeper Trail also showcases the rich history and culture of southwestern Virginia. The trail passes through several historic towns, including Abingdon and Damascus, and offers opportunities to explore the region's rich heritage and culture.
The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the great outdoors. The Virginia Creeper Trail is also a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife observation, with opportunities to see a variety of species, including deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging bike ride, the Virginia Creeper Trail is the perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the rich heritage of southwestern Virginia. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the area.
Ebikes are not allowed on the Virginia Creeper.
Open on TrailLink
High Bridge Trail State Park
Length: 31.4 miles
Trail surfaces: Crushed Stone
The High Bridge Trail State Park is a scenic and historic rail-trail located in central Virginia. This 31-mile long trail follows the historic route of the High Bridge Railroad and offers breathtaking views of the rolling countryside and the Appomattox River. The trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
In addition to providing opportunities for recreation, the High Bridge Trail State Park also showcases the rich history and culture of central Virginia. The trail passes through several historic towns, including Farmville and Burkeville, and offers stunning views of the iconic High Bridge, which was originally built in the 1800s and spans the Appomattox River.
The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the great outdoors. The High Bridge Trail State Park is also a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife observation, with opportunities to see a variety of species, including bald eagles and ospreys.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging bike ride, the High Bridge Trail State Park is the perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the rich heritage of central Virginia. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the area.
Huckleberry Trail
Length: 15.5 miles
Trail surfaces: Asphalt, Boardwalk
The Huckleberry Trail is a scenic and recreational path located in southwestern Virginia. This 15-mile long trail winds through the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and wildlife. The trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
In addition to providing opportunities for recreation, the Huckleberry Trail also showcases the rich history and culture of southwestern Virginia. The trail passes through several historic towns, including Blacksburg and Christiansburg, and offers opportunities to explore the region's rich heritage and culture.
The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the great outdoors. The Huckleberry Trail is also a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife observation, with opportunities to see a variety of species, including deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging bike ride, the Huckleberry Trail is the perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the rich heritage of southwestern Virginia. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the area.
Open on TrailLink
Mount Vernon Trail
The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile trail that runs from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. This scenic trail offers stunning views of the Potomac River, as well as historic sites and monuments. The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels.
FAQs:
Q: Are the bike greenways in Virginia safe for cyclists?
A: Yes, the bike greenways in Virginia are generally safe for cyclists. The trails are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels. However, it's always a good idea to exercise caution when cycling and to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Q: What is the best time of year to cycle the bike greenways in Virginia?
A: The best time of year to cycle the bike greenways in Virginia depends on personal preference. Some riders prefer to cycle in the spring and fall when the weather is mild, while others prefer to cycle in the summer when the weather is warm. Regardless of when you choose to cycle, it's always a good idea to be prepared for changing weather conditions and to dress appropriately.