From Abingdon to Damascus, Virginia
A Trail of Two Cities: What could be better than famous trails and friendly small towns? Check out the Blue Ridge Outdoors 2022 Top Adventure Town winners Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia for some of the best trails in the Southeast, and stay for the southern charm.
The Virginia Creeper Trail
A rail-trail that has it all, the Virginia Creeper Trail (VCT), offers countless adventures for the whole family. The trail runs 34.3 miles from Abingdon through Damascus to the border of Virginia and North Carolina at Whitetop Station. This “hub and spoke” trail connects to some of the best trail recreation in the southeast United States. To make life easier, there are eight local bike outfitters who provide shuttle services! Biking, hiking, trail running, and even cross country skiing are just some of the activities found on this multi-award winning route. The Virginia Creeper Trail also offers trailside access to trout streams and swimming holes, from Whitetop Laurel to South Holston Lake.
At the eastern end of the Virginia Creeper Trail, check out Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. It has over 500 miles of trails to explore, including Mount Rogers itself, at an altitude of more than 5,700 feet. Continue your trek through Grayson Highlands State Park. You’ll meet wild ponies in the Wilburn Ridge area and admire the surrounding alpine-like peaks. Nearby, drive or hike up Whitetop Mountain. It’s the second highest mountain in Virginia at 5,520 feet high. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, bike the whole 34 mile trail from Whitetop to Abingdon. For some serious adventure, consider the various connecting trails. You can make longer loops for multi-day backpacking and bikepacking routes.
The Friendliest Town on the Trail
In Damascus, the “Friendliest Town on the Trail”, the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs right along the sidewalk downtown. Before your adventure, head to Damascus Diner for a comforting breakfast. End the day with local spirits at Appalachian Heritage Distillery.
Rest up at the plentiful lodging opportunities in the area. Sleep under the stars at Hidden Valley Lake and Backbone Rock. Both towns are also designated “A.T. Communities.” Be sure to stop by their visitor and trail centers for information and recommendations!
Get out and discover the welcoming trails and culture in and around Abingdon and Damascus, Virginia. We promise you’ll want to return again and again!
A Trail of Two Cities trip itinerary was first published in the February 2023 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
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