When it comes to planning your next biking adventure, look no further than the hundreds of miles of trails snaking through the 41 Virginia State Parks. Home to some of the best views and waterways in Virginia, and with trails for all ages and skill levels, there’s no better way to take it all in than a day spent on your two-wheeled rig.
FIND YOUR FLOW
Want to try an all-day or multi-day excursion? Douthat State Park, in the scenic Allegheny Mountains, has over 40 miles of multi-use trails for biking that range from easy to more challenging difficulties. The park’s picturesque beauty and plentiful camping options make it ideal for a multi-day bikepacking getaway. If you’re in the mood for a shorter day trip, traverse 31 miles on High Bridge Trail State Park. Take in the views from High Bridge, a historic landmark, as you bike 2,400 feet across the Appomattox River, flowing 125 feet below.
Looking to ride some sweet singletrack and scenic routes?
Pocahontas State Park has more than 70 miles of directional mountain bike and multi-use trails. This park has all the flow and obstacles you could want out of a challenging course, including hand cycle-friendly trails. Be sure to check out the newest trails at the Swift Creek Trail System in the park.
PEDAL AND PADDLE
Take in the water views in Staunton River State Park. Choose out of eight multi-use trails to catch glimpses of Buggs Island Lake, Staunton River, and Dan River. Afterward, explore the park by kayak or canoe, and sleep under the stars in this International Dark Sky Park. In eastern Virginia, the trails at York River State Park allow you
to explore a variety of coastal habitats by bike. More than 18 miles of trail, ranging from easy to difficult, snake through this rare estuarine environment where freshwater and saltwater meet. The mountain bike-only trails allow you to push yourself as you ride through marshes and forests with views from the riverbank.
An additional ten miles of multi-use trails weave through the forest of Fairy Stone State Park. Bike along the lake shore, view spectacular wildflowers and a waterfall, and climb up to stunning overlooks. While exploring, keep an out for the legendary fairy stones, a naturally occurring stone formation that can be found throughout this landscape.
A RIDE TO THE PAST
The best part about these parks? All that offer biking, also offer hiking and hold nature and history programs throughout the year! From guided walks and canoe trips to fossil hunts and living history demonstrations, there are exciting and informative programs to suit
everyone. Programs and exhibits teach guests about those who shaped our culture and how our world works. They reveal the deeper meaning of our resources, impart new skills, and put people in touch with nature and hands-on history.
With 41 state parks dotting the Virginia landscape from the Atlantic Ocean to the Appalachian Mountains, you’re sure to find one that fits your sense of adventure. Pump up your tires, grab your helmet, and head out to a Virginia State Park today.
