TrailLink :: Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail

Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail:
Virginia

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Description:

The Virginia Creeper offers scenic wonders from dense forests, open fields, and lush waterways to railroad relics and delightful small towns. Cyclists and equestrians love the length of the Creeper, and many local walkers and joggers take advantage of the pleasant opportunity for a little exercise. The trail officially begins at the Virginia/North Carolina border, but the easiest place to start the Creeper is from the Whitetop Station trailhead. (However, to cover the entire trail, simply ride the extra mile from Whitetop to the North Carolina border before turning around to begin your voyage.) The first 17-mile stretch to Damascus allows for numerous restroom breaks at its many trailheads, some of which are housed in restored railroad depots. This section travels through terrific scenery, from Christmas tree farms and grazing llamas to river views and deep forestland. The Appalachian Trail also weaves on and off the Creeper. After going through dense trees, you will emerge to glide over bridges high above Laurel and Green Cove creeks. At approximately the midpoint of the Creeper, you will reach the Damascus trailhead. Before tackling the rest of the trail, consider taking a break in this sweet town. Damascus is the self-proclaimed friendliest town on the trail, and it won't take you long to see why: Its trailhead offers restrooms, a caboose-turned-information-booth, a replica train engine, and parking. Veer off the trail to find lunch stops and bike shops in town. After your break, get ready for a little work: From Damascus to the trail's end in Abingdon, a little more effort is required. The constant downhill is exchanged for a flat grade with some gentle rises and descents. It's not strenuous, but it is a change from the first section of trail. If you are bicycling, be aware that abundant equestrian use just after Damascus can leave its mark on the trail surface and give you a bumpy ride. But don't let a few bumps get you down. They start to peter out about 7 miles before Abingdon, and some of the Creeper's most beautiful river and farmland views are still ahead. On a ridgeline high above the South Fork Holston River, you will emerge onto a bridge offering invigorating views of South Holston Lake about 1770 feet below. Enjoy the water, cliffs, and trees while they last, because the landscape is about to change again, this time to peaceful, sprawling ranchland. As you continue your journey toward Abingdon you will run into cattle gates across the trail. These gates mark your entrance to the Creeper's expansive grazing meadows. This tranquil farmland accompanies you for much of the remainder of the journey. About a half mile from Abingdon is a public park with restrooms, picnic areas, and a water fountain. Just across the last bridge, you will reach the endpoint. If you are traveling to the Virginia Creeper from out of town, consider that many bike shops in Damascus and Abingdon offer bike rentals and a shuttle up to the Whitetop Station trailhead.

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Parking & Trail Access:

To get to the Whitetop Station trailhead, follow US Hwy. 58 east from Abingdon into Grayson County. Turn right on VA Route 726 and head south toward the North Carolina border. You will see the parking area off of 726. To get to the Abingdon trailhead, head south on Main Street (US Hwy. 11) in Abingdon and turn right onto Pecan Street. There is a large locomotive engine on display by the trailhead, which can be spotted off to the left of the parking lot.

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Seasonal Restrictions:

The Virginia Creeper Trail is open year-round. If severe weather occurs, parts of the trail may be closed for repairs.

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Reviews:

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May 2009 Great ride

By ltbike on December 24, 2009

We biked this trail for the first time in May of this year. We ride Trek Hybrid bicycles. There were a few rough spots at the beginning, but no problem. Beautiful trail and we loved it. Rode the entire trail and would do it again. We are from Arkansas and were there hiking and biking.

Fantastic part 2

By funriding on October 11, 2009

I failed to mention the ride between Abingdon and Damascus -- it is just as wonderful. Just around 7 miles from Abingdon is a long bridge -- it is picture perfect view of two rivers coming together. I highly recommend this ride of the trail. On this part of the trip there are fewer places to stop for food and drink so be prepared with plenty of water and snacks to keep up energy. Remember to be considerate of others riding the trail by staying on the left when riders are coming around you or you see riders coming toward you. Please remember to put your trash in a trash can and not on the ground along the trail.

Fantastic

By funriding on October 11, 2009

This is a wonderful rails to trails. In Demascus there are plenty of B&B places to stay, but if you care to have a bit more rustic experience, you can stay at the Iron Horse. Iron Horse has individual connected cabins with just a bed and place to hang some clothes. The clean showers are in a different building just a short walk or 1 second bike ride. It is really nice sitting on the deck enjoying the peaceful setting with a nice creek running close by. We really enjoyed staying at the Iron Horse. Now, to the bike trail. It is a wonderful trail. If you happen get a ride up to White Top and don't feel ready to head down the hill, try going the other way for a few miles. That part of the trail isn't kept up as nicely but it is a easy ride all the same. There are lots of places going down the hill to catch your breath to get a bite to eat, an ice cream cone, almost anything really, or just enjoy the view. Just remember one thing - watch yourself when crossing roads, stay to the left when people are riding by you, give people a nice heads up to let them know you're passing, and last but not least -- please do not litter.

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Trail Facts

Trail End Points: Abingdon to White Top
Counties: Grayson, Washington
Trail Length: 34 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt, Dirt
Trail Activities: Walk, Horseback, Bicycle, Cross Country Ski, Mountain Bicycle, Fishing