By mhctourism in December, 2010
The new Dick & Willie Passage rail trail is a wonderful new resource for our community. Guests can access the trail from four trailheads to enjoy miles of running, walking, cycling and in-line skating. In addition to being surrounded by nature, the trail offers convenient access to the Uptown Martinsville shopping and dining district that features boutique shops, art galleries, museums, restaurants, two performing arts theaters, discount furniture outlet shopping and a special photo opportunity with America's largest wooden chair.
Both residents and visitors may borrow a bike and helmet to ride for free through the "Bike MHC" program
at the Doyle St. Trailhead. This service is available on the following days:
-- Tuesdays from 11 am to 2 pm
-- Thursdays from 3-6 pm
-- Saturdays (1st, 4th & 5th) from 8 am-12 pm
-- Saturdays (2nd & 3rd) from 10:30 am-12:00 pm
Contact (276) 403-5087 for more details on "Bike MHC".
Additional information about area trails and other area attractions, restaurants, lodging and events can be found at the Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center at 54 West Church Street.
From the Dick & Willie Passage exit onto the Uptown Spur Trail (between the Doyal Street and Liberty Street trailheads). At the end of the Uptown Spur Trail walk/bike up Franklin Street past the Historic Henry County Courthouse and go one more block over to Church Street.
Plan your trip ahead by calling 1-800-PACE-4-YU or go online at www.Visitmartinsville.com.
By radams1969 in December, 2010
This is a great trail for many different activities. I ran it and also biked it. It is really nice that you feel like you are really "in the woods" for much of the trail but you are right in town. There are 2 places that you can bike right off the trail, eat lunch and finish the trail. The trail is well taken care of and the signs, fences etc. are really nice.
By rhett in December, 2010
Two of us began biking the trail @ El Parral Restaurant @ 670 Commonwealth Boulevard in Martinsville in the late afternoon in November 2010 and rode it to the opposite terminus and back. The weather was cool on a clear and crisp fall day. What a splendid ride. 100% paved; mostly a gentle uphill grade for about 2 miles then down. The length is about 4.5 miles (one way) for a perfect trip length out and back. The return trip was mostly downhill and fast. The trip takes you through a number of different commercial and residential neighborhoods and offers natives a whole new perspective of travel through the town. The view ranges from urban to woodsy with only one crossing of a traffic road. Attractive wooden fencing adorns several short stretches. The paved surface is awesome.
Much care and thought has gone into trail planning with the placement of several port-a-potties and bench seats at various appropriate spots along the way. What a wonderful trail for little ole Martinsville, VA. Why you can even stop for lunch at Dominoes pizza which is almost on the trail.
You don't ride this trail without meeting friends along the way so allow plenty of time!
Much thanks to those with the foresight to implement such a terrific trail; I'm sure there are already plans on the table to extend this beautiful trail towards Collinsville. I can't wait.
H Rhett