Between Franklin County, Roanoke County, Botetourt County, and the cities of Roanoke and Salem, Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers cyclists and bikers boundless exploration and a lifetime of memories. Whether you prefer rolling road rides or tough trail climbs, every kind of two-wheeled rider will find their own bit of biking paradise in this region.
Ride around the Roanoke Region
Home to some of the best hikes in the U.S., Roanoke is also the perfect place to bring your bike! Located in the middle of “Virginia’s Blue Ridge” , Roanoke offers an unparalleled biking experience with its diverse landscapes and extensive trail network. With a vibrant cycling community and a reputation for producing elite athletes, this region promises unforgettable rides for cyclists of all levels.
Mountain Biking
Carvins Cove is renowned for its extensive network of trails, catering to all skill levels with over 60 miles of singletrack. Explore Park provides fun routes through the forest and near the Roanoke River , perfect for both beginners and seasoned bikers. Mill Mountain Park features challenging climbs and rewarding descents, all with stunning views of the city. For those seeking rugged backcountry adventures, the North Mountain and Arcadia areas of Jefferson National Forest in Botetourt Countyoffer some of the toughest and most exhilarating trails in the region.
Road Cycling and Family-Friendly
The Blue Ridge Parkway and the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail offer world-class cycling routes in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its challenging terrain, has been a training ground for Olympians. This region is also home to Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24, America’s premier women’s cycling team, which has produced numerous Olympians and gold medal winners.
For casual, relaxing rides, explore the Roanoke Valley Greenways and local parks like Waid Park and Jamison Mill Park. These areas offer scenic, easy-going paths perfect for leisurely biking and family outings. For all your cycling needs, visit Cardinal Bicycle, Roanoke Mountain Adventures, or Just the Right Gear, which provide everything from bike rentals to expert advice.
More to Explore
For those seeking adventure beyond biking, Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers a wealth of experiences. Hike the Appalachian Trail’s VA Triple Crown, including Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs, for some of the region’s most breathtaking views. Paddle or tube along the Upper James River Water Trail in Botetourt County for a refreshing water adventure.
Celebrate everything outdoors at the annual Roanoke GO Outside Festival, happening October 18-20, 2024. This signature outdoor event of the year includes equipment demos, live music, unique shows, and more! With its expansion to two locations—Downtown Roanoke and Explore Park—there’s even more to discover this year.
Complete your visit with a trip to the Roanoke Star atop Mill Mountain, offering iconic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains—ideal for memorable selfies and scenic photos. After a ride in Mill Mountain Park, unwind with a visit to Big Lick Brewing Co., Golden Cactus Brewery, or Tuco’s Taqueria in downtown Roanoke.
Adventure Around Every Turn in Franklin County
Calling all trail riders, road cyclists, and adventure seekers to Franklin County, Va. Explore an area rich in beautiful scenery and culture in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Get your adventure started at Waid Park, a 500-acre park featuring over 16 miles of trails. You’ll ride sections of technical singletrack, river crossings, wooden ramps, and rock gardens, plus you can test your abilities on a jump line, riding skills loop, and more. Along the way, you’ll encounter active farms and the Pigg River Blueway flowing through the park. You can even hop on a section of the Historic Old Carolina Road Trail, a roadway settlers used in the 1700s.
Then head out to Jamison Mill Park for an additional 300 acres and six miles of interconnected loop trails. Located on the sprawling Philpott Lake, you’ll have views for days, plus easy access to a quick cool down in the water. You can even stay at the campground, open from April through October, for easy access to the trails.
If you’re looking for a quick jaunt, the 1.5-mile Maurice Turner Trail, in the charming town of Boones Mill, is the perfect escape into nature. Or, if road cycling is more your jam, the Franklin County Freewheelers Bicycle Club can help you find the best back roads around for picturesque views and challenging climbs. Franklin County hosted the 2023 USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championships in June 2023. Cyclists can ride the National Championship Course through the hills of western Franklin County and compare their times to the best in the world.
Head to Smith Mountain Lake for a mix of entertainment and recreation, from concerts at Coves Amphitheater and world-class fishing to lakefront lodging. Enjoy meals at Napoli Cowboy and Sago’s, and local spirits at Roosters Rise N Shine Distillery. Visit Bridgewater Plaza for family fun, Twin Creeks Distillery for weekly old-time jams, and Anastasia’s Speakeasy for prohibition-themed cocktails. For more information, visit VisitFranklinCountyVA.com.
Scenic Mountain Rides in Salem
Mountain bikers and road cyclists will both love the City of Salem, VA, for its wide variety of biking options, not to mention endless après-ride fun.
The Blue Ridge Mountains that surround Salem are filled with awesome mountain biking trails. There are hundreds of miles of trails within minutes of downtown Salem, including Carvins Cove Recreation Area and Explore Park. A more leisurely option is the Roanoke River Greenway, a popular multi-use trail that connects Salem and Roanoke.
There are also lots of peaceful back roads for road cyclists to enjoy a long ride through the countryside. Many riders consider it a bucket list item to ride America’s most famous scenic road, the Blue Ridge Parkway.
After a day of riding the trails, you’ll be ready for some refreshment. Raise a glass at Olde Salem Brewing and Parkway Brewing Company. These locally-owned breweries serve great IPAs, pilsners, lagers and some of their own creative concoctions all in a fun, friendly atmosphere where riders are always welcome. The dining scene in Salem is just as diverse as the outdoor recreation options. Stroll down Main Street in Salem’s lovely downtown and you’ll find dozens of great dining choices. Sample southern comfort food at Gina’s Food With Flavor; Dine in style at Frankie Rowland’s Steakhouse; Savor great sandwiches and salads at Macado’s; And experience the wings and famous calzones at Mac and Bob’s, an institution in Salem for more than 40 years.
Salem is located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge and easily accessible from I-81 and Route 460. Extend your stay at the Lofts at Downtown Salem where they offer an indoor bike rack, wash area out back and have free loaner bikes for guests to use downtown. If you’re looking for a destination that offers endless fun in the great outdoors, plan an adventure at VisitSalemVA.com.
