Virginia Creeper

**Cyclesome** · 01-04-2009, 07:20 AM

Thinking about doing the Virginia Creeper with friends. Any infromation about distance, the ride itself, shuttles, lodging, time of year, etc. who be appreciated.

**Blueberry** · 01-04-2009, 08:46 AM

I think there are a few threads with specific info on where to stay - my dad is up there, so I don't have to find a hotel/places to eat.

From Whitetop to Damascus is just about all down hill. You really don't have to pedal much - but the grade going the other direction isn't bad (it was a railroad bed). There are LOTS of places that have shuttles from Damascus to White Top (easy ride down). There's plenty of parking in Damascus, if you want to park and ride both ways. Not sure exactly what the mileage is - but I think in the 15 range. Total is about 33.

Anytime of year is Ok - probably best from April - late October. It's beautiful in the fall, but really crowded unless you go during the week.

Let me know if you have more specific questions.

**Zen** · 01-04-2009, 02:53 PM

Have you seen this?

**KathiCville** · 01-06-2009, 06:11 AM

Great link, Zen!!

A terrific non-biking side trip, Cyclesome, if you have time and inclination, is a walk on the AT on the summit of Whitetop. The views are spectacular. (See pic below w/small dog in middle.) The Virginia Creeper Trail might offer similar breath-taking views; I bet CA_in_NC would know.

Hiking to the top of Mount Rogers (right next door, elevation 5729') is a great outing, too. Encountering the wild ponies on the trail is a treat---'though my dog Samantha has mixed feelings about 'em!

**Cyclesome** · 01-06-2009, 10:39 AM

Great site, Zen. Thanks for the Information for all.

**Zen** · 01-06-2009, 11:51 AM

I was looking at that site myself.
If I had someone to drive me down there I'd like to go west to east in one day, stay at the Iron horse Campground* then go back.

I tend to get sleepy driving that far, though

*their site says they 'provide full hook-ups'

**Cataboo** · 01-06-2009, 03:49 PM

Originally Posted by Zen

I was looking at that site myself.
If I had someone to drive me down there I'd like to go west to east in one day, stay at the Iron horse Campground* then go back.

I tend to get sleepy driving that far, though

*their site says they 'provide full hook-ups'

I sent the site to a friend down in Richmond, suggesting we do it together - but if I'm driving down there - I could take you. Except she's one of those friends who's always painting or renovating her house instead of doing fun things with me, which makes it a very hypothetical trip.

I'm not sure if we'd cycle & camp partway to do some hiking, or straight in one day.

Does your bike require full hook ups?

**Zen** · 01-06-2009, 04:38 PM

I was thinking of , uh..., another type of hook up entirely

**Cataboo** · 01-06-2009, 04:41 PM

Originally Posted by Zen

I was thinking of , uh..., another type of hook up entirely

True, but they don't mention the quality of those types of hookups... They're full ones, but discerning customers might want some assurance as to the abilities and size of the facilities.

**Zen** · 01-06-2009, 06:34 PM

That's the way it is on the road.

I've been noodling around various sites regarding this trai all evening. Google Earth was interesting.
And I found this-
http://vacreepertrail.blogspot.com/

**Cataboo** · 03-13-2009, 06:14 PM

My friend Julie & I were talking about doing this again today, trying to pick a weekend...

Has anyone done it? It calls it a mountain bike trail, and I could use my mountain bike... but I think my flaming surly with the 700x28's would probably work fine as well... (however, I could be fairly miserable if I take the wrong bike)

Zen, you're welcome to ride down with me & come with us - I think we'll probably just be biking half way, setting up camp & going hiking and then doing the rest the next day.

**Zen** · 03-13-2009, 06:45 PM

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** · 03-13-2009, 06:50 PM

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

**Zen** · 03-13-2009, 06:53 PM

Late April is booked

May is clear

Unless someone buys my house

**AnnieBikes** · 03-16-2009, 12:01 PM

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.

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