Where does the Creeper Trail start and end?
Find the official VCT map and other Creeper Trail merch here! The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a 34.3-mile rail-to-recreation trail, traversing through two counties from Abingdon, Virginia, through Damascus, and ending just past Whitetop Station in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, at the Virginia-North Carolina border.
How long is the Virginia creeper National Recreation Trail?
The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a 34.3-mile rail-to-recreation trail, traversing through two counties from Abingdon, Virginia, through Damascus, and ending just past Whitetop Station in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, at the Virginia-North Carolina border.
Where do you stop on the Virginia Creeper Trail?
Riders stop at one of the high trestles on the Virginia Creeper Trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 35-mile (56 km) multi-purpose rail trail. Located in southwestern Virginia, the trail runs from Abingdon to Whitetop, Virginia, near Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and the North Carolina state line.
Where does the Virginia creeper start and end?
The 34-mile multi-use trail begins in Abingdon, a popular access point at Mile 0, and then carries on through rolling farmland to Damascus at Mile 15.5. From there, the Virginia Creeper winds up to its highest point at Whitetop Station, offering plenty of amenities and activities along the way.
Where does the Virginia Creeper Trail begin and end?
The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a 34.3-mile rail-to-recreation trail, traversing through two counties from Abingdon, Virginia, through Damascus, and ending just past Whitetop Station in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, at the Virginia-North Carolina border.
How long does it take to ride the whole Virginia Creeper Trail?
5.5 hoursIt takes an average of 5.5 hours, including a few stops along the way to bike the entire trail while enjoying the scenery and a bite to eat.
How long does it take to go down the Virginia Creeper Trail?
approximately 2.5 to 3 hoursView Elevation Profile. Heading down from Whitetop to Damascus takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. Add another 2 hours or so to travel from Damascus to the trail head in Abingdon.
Where do you stop on the Virginia Creeper Trail?
Whitetop Station trailheadSo just to say you covered the entire trail, ride to the end from the Whitetop Station trailhead. Stop by the visitor center at Whitetop Station (limited hours April–October) for an introduction to the trail. The original station was demolished in 1977, but a new building captures the feel of the railroad's past.
How difficult is Virginia Creeper Trail?
It is not downhill, but flat to slightly uphill. The entire 34 miles is doable in a day. over a year ago. The upper part of Whitetop is steep (probably first 3-4 miles) and I would think you could do up to 12 miles in before it got too steep for you.
How much does it cost to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail?
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? The most popular "Combo Package" (bike rental/shuttle) is $39.99. You can bring your own bike andget the Shuttle Only to Whitetop for $24.99.
What is the best part of the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The most popular secton of the Virginia Creeper is the eastern section that goes from Whitetop Station, which has an elevation of 3500 feet to Damascus, Virginia which is about 1900 feet. That means you get to ride downhill for 17 miles.
Do you have to wear a helmet on the Virginia Creeper Trail?
As the trail traverses private and public property, we ask that all users exercise respect and courtesy. The trail is for non-motorized traffic only. Though helmets are not required, they are highly recommended and are standard issue with bike rentals.
What type of bike is best for Virginia Creeper Trail?
Mountain bikes, hybrid bikes and cruisers work very well, as do cyclocross bikes, "gravel bikes" and other such adventure and touring bikes. Skinny road bike tires are best saved for another day (28 millimeter and larger road bike tires should be fine, however).
Where does the Creeper Trail start in Abingdon?
The 34-mile multi-use trail begins in Abingdon, a popular access point at Mile 0, and then carries on through rolling farmland to Damascus at Mile 15.5. From there, the Virginia Creeper winds up to its highest point at Whitetop Station, offering plenty of amenities and activities along the way.
How many bridges are on the Virginia Creeper Trail?
Forty seven trestles and bridges provide scenic views of the region's creeks, farmland, and mountain forests. The Virginia Creeper Trail is rich in beauty and regional history.
Are bathrooms open on the Virginia Creeper Trail?
For the protection of trail users and employees with limited personal protection equipment (PPE), all restroom facilities, visitor and welcome centers and certain picnic shelters are closed.
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail worth it?
As the trail meanders down the mountain you get plenty of opportunities to see the river and cross over many bridges. The scenery is pretty and worth it doing it for that. The Appalachian Trail shares the Creeper Trail for a short ways.
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail paved?
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail paved? No. The trail is a smooth hard packed surface of dirt, crushed cinders, and fine gravel. The trail drains well in most places so there are just a few muddy spots.
What is the best part of the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The most popular secton of the Virginia Creeper is the eastern section that goes from Whitetop Station, which has an elevation of 3500 feet to Damascus, Virginia which is about 1900 feet. That means you get to ride downhill for 17 miles.
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail all downhill?
HOW LONG IS THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL? The trail, centered around Damascus, travels 17 miles east up to Whitetop Station downhill and 17 miles west down through the valley and back up to Abingdon.
Where is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
Located in southwestern Virginia, the trail runs from Abingdon to Whitetop, Virginia, near Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and the North Carolina state line.
Where is the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina?
The trail accommodates hikers, cyclists and equestrians on its descent from Abingdon to Damascus, near the North Carolina state line – passing through National Forest, crossing a number of restored trestles and the Appalachian Trail.
What is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a dream come true for anyone who wants to become immersed in the beautiful scenery of the Southwest Virginia and get a firsthand look at its unique history and landscapes. Visitors can make their time on the trail as leisurely or as strenuous as they please, spending anywhere from a few relaxing hours to several exploratory days in the area.
What is the Creeper Trail?
While it’s primarily a biking trail, it’s also a popular destination for hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Safety and etiquette: The Creeper Trail is a regional treasure shared by many. Visitors and locals alike also share the common goal to enjoy the unique experience ...
How far down to Damascus to ride the Virginia Creeper?
From there, visitors can bike 17 miles down to Damascus to be picked up.
Is Virginia Creeper a mountain bike trail?
While technically considered a mountain biking trail, the Virginia Creeper is well-maintained and consists mostly of crushed stone, so it can be easily navigated on a hybrid or road bike.
How wide is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
Much of the trail goes through private land. In many places, the public trail corridor is only 80’ wide. It is maintained by public-private partnerships between the U.S. Forest Service, the Towns of Abingdon and Damascus, and volunteers with the Virginia Creeper Trail Club.
How long is the Creeper Trail?
The 34-mile multi-use trail begins in Abingdon, a popular access point at Mile 0, and then carries on through rolling farmland to Damascus at Mile 15.5. ...
Why is the Virginia Creeper Trail named after the railroad?
Following the route of an old railroad bed, the Virginia Creeper Trail is named for the steam engine that once chugged along it and for the Virginia Creeper vine that populates the area. With the abandonment of many railroads in the 1970s, a national movement gained momentum to convert train tracks into trails.
What is the trail from Abingdon to Damascus?
The section of the trail from Abingdon to Damascus is wide and level, and winds through rolling farmland. Along this section of the trail, it's not uncommon to see grazing horses and cows. Some might even come right up to the fence to say hello!
When was the Creeper Trail completed?
After the last train ran the route in 1977, the idea for The Creeper Trail was born, and it was completed in 1984. Much of the trail goes through private land.
Where did the name Maude Bows to the Virginia Creeper come from?
Its name was inspired by the steam engines that slowly crept up the mountainside, although some argue that the name actually comes from the native Virginia Creeper vine that can be found growing along the trail. "Maude Bows to the Virginia Creeper," by the famous photographer O. Winston Link.
Where to stop for trout fishing in Virginia?
Stops along the way include the old railroad station at Green Cove, operated by the US Forest Service; check out the high trestle at Creek Junction, where the trail runs beside some of the best trout fishing in Virginia; or stop for a bite of lunch in the community of Taylor's Valley. The trail is multi-use, and you'll also see hikers, ...
Where is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a 34.3 mile rails-to-trails recreation trail located in beautiful Southwest Virginia. Traversing through two counties from Abingdon, Virginia, through Damascus, and ending at Whitetop Station in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, at the Virginia-North Carolina border.
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail in the Hall of Fame?
The Virginia Creeper Trail remains one of the United State's premier rail-trails, and was honored as the inductee into the 2014 Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame and a recipient of numerous local, regional and national accolades.
What is the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile, multi-use recreational path in southwest Virginia. Depending on the direction you take, it runs north from Whitetop Mountain to the town of Abingdon, Virginia, or south from Abingdon to Whitetop.
Why Should You Start Planning a Virginia Creeper Trail Trip?
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a beautiful pathway that winds through Appalachian forests and picturesque agricultural valleys while crossing over 47 former railroad trestles. On the trail, you pass babbling mountain streams, sprawling hillside Christmas tree farms, and quaint mountain communities.
Who Would Enjoy the Virginia Creeper Trail?
The Virginia Creeper Trail is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, especially for those who begin at Whitetop Mountain. You’re basically cycling down a mountain for the first 17 miles!
Where to Start and End the Virginia Creeper Trail
Technically, the Virginia Creeper Trail begins at its northernmost point at Abingdon and runs southbound through Damascus before ending at Whitetop Mountain. However, the most popular segment of the trail runs from Whitetop to Damascus. The entire 17-mile ride heading north is downhill as you coast down Whitetop Mountain and into Damascus!
How to Get a Rental Bike
Most bike rental services are in Damascus, but there is one in Abingdon too. Book your rental reservation directly through one of the eight rental companies in the area. Your rental company will be able to provide information regarding shuttle services as well.
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing varies based on which company you use and whether you plan on cycling the full 34 miles or not. We rented two bikes for the entire 34 miles through Bicycle Junction for about $180 in August 2021.
Where Should You Stay?
Because the Virginia Creeper Trail passes through several communities, it can be a bit confusing trying to figure out where to stay when you visit! We recommend choosing either Damascus or Abingdon as your home base. Regardless of which town you choose, you will be able to access bike rental companies and shuttle services!
