Virginia Creeper

[Zen]

That would be great. I've got a lot going on this summer but once you pick a date I'll see if it works for me.

[Cataboo]

We were thinking late April or sometime in May - try to avoid the summer crowds.

[Zen]

Late April is booked
May is clear
Unless someone buys my house

[AnnieBikes]

I live a half hour from the VA Creeper Trail. Avoid riding there in the summer like the plague. This is a very lovely, wonderful rail-trail but it gets REALLY crowded on the weekends in summer. Almost any pretty weekend can be crowded but it is really a fun place to ride. May would be perfect with the wildflowers, too.

The total miles from Damascus to Whitetop and back is 35+. Most people who try it are fairly new riders and take the local shuttle to the top and ride back, an almost, but not completely, pedal free ride!!! There are loads of companies which will shuttle you to the top but riding up is really nice. There are lots of bike shops in town with everything you could ever want for your bike...or hike for that matter. The Appalachian Trail runs right through town, deemed "the friendliest town on the AT." There are lots of great eateries in town as well.

I would recommend a wider than 28 tire, however. There are some rocks and the surface is mostly cinder, so wear dark socks There are also lots of trestles to cross and lots of nice places for a picnic by the Whitetop-Laurel Creek which runs nearly the whole length of the trail. I have ridden my cross bike on it with 32's and was fine.

Have fun. It is a splendid place to ride.

[Cataboo]

Thanks for all the helpful info. I guess I'll have to take my mountain bike.

[Zen]

The Flaming Surly would do. I ride 32's on that type surface.