Offering scenic landscapes and rural charm, Rockingham County, Virginia, is a top destination for biking enthusiasts. As the state’s largest agricultural producer, it features picturesque farmlands and diverse terrains. Nearly one-third of the area is designated as National Park or National Forest, providing abundant natural beauty to explore.
Hills and Hollows
Prepare for an epic journey of 300 miles with 22,000 feet of elevation gain and 25% unpaved surfaces on the Blue Ridge Hills & Hollows (BRHH) gravel bikepacking loop. This mixed-surface route connects eight county memorials around Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park (SNP) and showcases the finest dirt and gravel roads in the region. The memorials along the route honor the families and communities displaced during the park’s formation in the 1930s.
At HillsandHollows.org, riders can prepare for their trip with sample itineraries, find nearby bike and gear shops, learn about the best resupply and camping areas, and explore alternative routes. For example, the Hills & Hollows route can easily be combined with Skyline Drive, a scenic 105-mile stretch with an elevation gain of 9,847 feet, featuring fantastic views and unforgettable climbs. The best bikes for this route are gravel bikes or road bikes with wider tire clearance. Mountain bikes are also suitable, though slower and without the need for suspension. Mole Hill Bikes has everything you need to make sure you’re ready to roll.
After a day of riding, Rockingham County offers fantastic fall festivals, including the Broadway Autumn Festival on September 14, Dayton Days Autumn Celebration on October 5, Massanutten Fall Festival on October 12, and Elkton Autumn Days from October 19-20. For refreshments, you can visit The Valley Pantry & Deli, Cave Hill Farms Brewery, and Elkton Brewing Co. Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting Back Home on the Farm, exploring Mulberry Hills Pumpkin Patch, and hiking in Shenandoah National Park.
