Tips for the trail –All trails lead to Damascus, Virginia! We have hundreds of miles of trails for you to explore right in our backyard.
At the edge of town, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area stretches as far as the eye can see, across the highest peaks in the state, over mountain balds and spruce-fir forests, trout streams, and more than 400 miles of trail. Find paths less traveled in Cherokee National Forest just south of town. In the heart of Damascus, you’ll find the Virginia Creeper Trail, one of the most famous biking trails in the United States. Take a shuttle to the top and enjoy the scenic ride back down through the forest from Whitetop Station.
To make the most of your time on the trails around Damascus, VA, it’s important to be kind, be aware, and be prepared. Here’s some local advice:
1.) Trail Tip: BE Kind
Be respectful of other visitors and their experiences. (And remember, we are all visitors on the trail!).
Leave your bluetooth speaker at home and listen to the sounds of nature.
Leash and control your pets. Pack out pet waste.
Share the trail: Bikes should always yield to hikers and horses. Downhill yields to uphill traffic.
2.) Trail Tip: Be Aware
Safety first: Notice your surroundings. Always know your location.
Watch out for wildlife and give them plenty of space. Do not feed wildlife or leave food unattended.
Littering on trails is often accidental (at least, we hope!). If you bring something with you, pack it out too.
Reduce your impact by staying on designated trails, roads, and campsites.
In downtown Damascus, please walk bicycles when using the sidewalks.
3.) Trail Tip: Be Prepared
Know the weather forecast. The weather varies and changes more quickly at higher elevations.
Bring the essentials: clothing layers, food and water, navigation, and a first aid kit.
Don’t count on having cellphone service outside of town.
Make a plan with your group and stay together. If traveling alone, let someone know your trip plan.
Make the Damascus Trail Center your first stop downtown to pick up local maps, find must-do activities nearby to add to your trip itinerary, and learn more about hitting the trails responsibly.
Happy Trails!
Trail Alerts & Closures
For the most up-to-date information, remember to check for local closures, alerts, and warnings before you go:
We are thankful for the groups that spend countless volunteer hours in stewardship to help maintain our trails. We encourage you to support and join their efforts. If you are just visiting, we recommend connecting with your local trail clubs and organizations at home.
Get the latest trail updates for alerts and trail conditions around Damascus, Virginia. Know before you go. More information below on current conditions, including:
Virginia Creeper Trail: OPEN from Abingdon to Damascus
Virginia Creeper Trail: CLOSED upper half, set to reopen March 31, 2027
Appalachian Trail closure, detour, and shuttle options for 2026 season
New Burn Ban in Mount Rogers High Country
Beartree Lake Restoration Project in 2025-26
This is Trail Town USA. Several major trails pass through the heart of Damascus, including the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail. Nearby are multi-use trails and motorized routes in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, George Washington-Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, and Grayson Highlands State Park.
Although the upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail remains closed in the 2026 season, Damascus has many miles of other open trails nearby! Make Damascus, Virginia your basecamp for adventure. Check out some of our favorites in the region, from Grayson Highlands State Park in Mouth of Wilson, to one of our other neighboring rail-trails, the Mendota Trail in Bristol.
Looking to put in some big miles? Set your sights on the Appalachian Trail, Grayson Gravel Traverse, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, or TransVirginia Bike Route.
National Forest Maps
No signal? No problem! The new National Forests and Grasslands app by the Forest Service features offline maps, safety alerts, and a comprehensive set of recreation sites and trails – all for free. Download maps before you go:
Half of the Virginia Creeper Trail is OPEN, from the Start to the Heart, Abingdon to Damascus, about 17 miles. Our bike outfitters are providing rental and shuttle services for the Abingdon to Damascus section. Now open to e-bikes as well!
The upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail, from Whitetop Station to Damascus, saw significant damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024. The trail remains closed until it is rebuilt and is set to reopen on March 31st, 2027. There is no access to the Virginia Creeper Trail past Damascus at this time.
Work Zone: Please be alert to signage and barricades on the trail, and respect trail closures, for the safety of both the public and work crews. Closed area strictly enforced.
View all Closed Trails & Developed Recreation Sites near the Virginia Creeper Trail
Closed Trails & Developed Recreation Sites
Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, Forest Service Trail (FST) 4575, from Trestle 16 in Damascus to the North Carolina-Virginia state line just past Whitetop Station
Appalachian Trail from Highway 58 at Straight Branch Trailhead to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859 (Northbound miles 476.6.0 to 485.8)
Whitetop Laurel Fishing Trail (FST 4645)
Taylors Valley Spur (FST 4651)
Creek Junction Trailhead
Straight Branch Trailhead
Whitetop Station Parking Lot and Trailhead
Green Cove Parking Lot and Facility
The Whitetop Station Visitor Center and Green Cove Station Visitor Center remain closed as well.
Virginia Creeper Trail Set to Reopen March 31, 2027
The Forest Service has announced that the Virginia Creeper Trail is expected to fully reopen on March 31, 2027. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a backbone of the local outdoor economy. The trail brings thousands of riders, families and visitors to Damascus, Abingdon and communities throughout Southwest Virginia each year. Now residents, outfitters, and nearby businesses have a clear timeline so they can plan ahead for next year’s tourism season.
The Town of Damascus, Virginia was delighted to celebrate the groundbreaking of the upper half of the Virginia Creeper Trail, on December 18, 2025, alongside the US Forest Service, Kiewit Infrastructure South Co., the Commonwealth of Virginia, and many regional partners and community members. This day marked a significant milestone in our recovery from Hurricane Helene in September 2024. As Mayor Lamb says, “We’re coming back better than we’ve ever been!” A year from now, we look forward to celebrating the ribbon-cutting with you. In the meantime, half of the Virginia Creeper Trail remains open, from the Start to the Heart, Abingdon to Damascus.
Virginia Creeper Trail Rebuild Contract
Virginia Creeper Trail Rebuild Contract
The Forest Service announced the award of the design-build contract for the Virginia Creeper Trail to Kiewit Corporation of Peachtree City, Georgia. This contract is valued at $240,580,432.12. This is for the full rebuild of the devastated upper 17-mile section of the trail between Damascus and Whitetop Station. This section of the trail remains under strict closure for the duration of the construction period, until otherwise noted. Estimated completion in Fall 2026. (posted Nov. 6)
Further updates will be shared here as they become available. Kiewit plans to share regular updates on its project website as well, linked below:
There is an Appalachian Trail closure and detour just north of Damascus in 2026. This closed area is strictly enforced. The trail is closed for 9.2 miles due to construction on the Virginia Creeper Trail. The closure area goes from US-58 at Straight Branch Trailhead to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859. (Northbound miles 476.6.0 to 485.8). US-58 roadwalk NOT recommended. The Forest Service and Appalachian Trail Conservancy have two recommended detours for hikers.
A.T. Detour & Shuttle Options
Long distance hikers can bypass the closed area via other trails nearby.
Northbound detour: Follow the Iron Mountain Trail from Damascus to the Flat Top Trail and Mount Rogers Trail. Reconnect with the Appalachian Trail at Deep Gap, 2 miles south of the Thomas Knob Shelter.
Southbound detour: Follow the Mount Rogers Trail. Two miles south of Thomas Knob Shelter, hike from Deep Gap to the Flat Top Trail and Iron Mountain Trail. Reconnect with the Appalachian Trail in Damascus.
Hikers can also arrange a shuttle around the closed section. Recommended shuttle is from Damascus to Grassy Ridge Road/VA 859 or to US-58 at Summit Cut.
With these recommended detour or shuttle options, hikers can still experience the beautiful Mount Rogers High Country. Additionally, the Iron Mountain Trail was originally part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail until 1972. Historic shelters remain available for overnight use.
Important Notes for multi-use
Wear blaze orange. The Iron Mountain Trail is open to hunting. This includes the use of hunting dogs.
Sections of the Iron Mountain Trail are multi-use. Stay alert and share the trail. Mountain biking, equestrian, and motorized use are allowed in some areas.
Note: This trail closure is partway between Damascus and the Whitetop Mountain/Elk Garden area. Hikers traveling between town and the Mount Rogers High Country must plan an alternate route for the 2026 season.
The Forest Service has issued fire restrictions for the Appalachian Trail through the Mount Rogers High Country. This burn ban is from Beech Mountain Road to Massie Gap (NOBO mile 489.4 to 502.4). Creating and maintaining campfires is prohibited. Use extreme caution with camp stoves and smoking. Pack out all trash.
This area is home to rare and critically imperiled southern spruce-fir forest. A host of rare, threatened, and endangered species depend on this forest. Hurricane Helene left behind storm debris and downed trees, creating the perfect fuel for wildfires to spread quickly. Follow these fire restrictions to help protect this unique ecosystem.
This burn ban (shown in red) is for all areas within a quarter mile of the Appalachian Trail.
Beartree Lake has been drained and organic material is being removed from the lakebed. No fishing, swimming, or paddling. The bathrooms by the beach are closed. Potable water will not be available for the 2026 season. The picnic area and group picnic pavilion are closed. Portable toilets are available at the beach area parking lot, the group picnic pavilion, and the fishermen’s parking lot. This project will continue into the 2026 season.
The Chipmunk Loop at Beartree Campground will be open for camping starting on Thursday, May 13, 2026. Bathrooms and showers remain closed. All sites are first-come, first-served. $24 per site, per night.
Grindstone Campground and its parking area is closed for the remainder of the 2026 season. The Forest Service will replace aging infrastructure and repair damage caused by Hurricane Helene. For Safety reasons please limit entry into the construction area.
Alternative parking: Across from Fox Creek Horse Campground 36.696628, -81.5326411 At the Mount Rogers Trailhead 36.689230, -81.532605
Find your way to adventure in Damascus, Virginia. There is an adventure for everyone here, from family-friendly biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail to hiking the highest peaks in the state, and everything in between.
Also known as Trail Town USA, the Appalachian Trail enters the state of Virginia just a few miles outside of Damascus, then runs down the sidewalk of Main Street. The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches across the middle of town two blocks to the south. Wheeled tourists pass through on the TransAmerican and TransVirginia road cycling routes, as well as the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail, Crooked Road, Boone Trail Highway, and South East (SEBDR) and Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route (MABDR) motor routes. Damascus is a gateway town to Mount Rogers, the highest peak in the state of Virginia, at an elevation of 5,729 feet.
Choose Your Adventure
Before you hit the trail, stop by the Damascus Trail Center. The center opened in 2022 as a partnership between the Town of Damascus and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). Friendly staff are available to answer questions and connect visitors with a wide range of outdoor resources across the region.
The Virginia Creeper Trail is one of the most famous biking trails in the country. This scenic trail is a top pick and attracts an estimated 200,000 visitors per year. Book a shuttle with any of the eight bike outfitters in town. Cruise downhill along the scenic 17-mile section from Whitetop Station back to Damascus. The trail is beginner-friendly. It passes through Jefferson National Forest on a relaxed railroad grade. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, bring along a fishing pole or swimsuit and plan for a few extra stops along the way.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
At the edge of town, step into Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. This 200,000 acre tract of public land includes four wilderness areas, elevations of over 5,000 feet, and over 500 miles of trails. In addition to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, find backcountry horseback riding on the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail. Find ridgeline mountain biking and trail running on the Iron Mountain Trail. Drive the highest road in the state to the summit of Whitetop Mountain for unbeatable sunset views. Hike among wild ponies on the high elevation balds at nearby Grayson Highlands State Park for sweeping 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Although Damascus gets a lot of hype for its trails, one of its best-kept secrets is the abundant waterfront access. Trout streams Whitetop Laurel, Tennessee Laurel, and Beaverdam Creek all converge in town to form the South Fork of the Holston River. Whitewater boaters love to chase the seasonal flows of Whitetop Laurel Creek and the milder South Fork of the Holston. Flatwater paddling can be found at Beartree Lake and South Holston Lake. Accessible fishing spots are located at Creek Junction Accessible Fishing Trail and Beartree Lake. There are cold, clear swimming holes around nearly every bend, both along the Virginia Creeper Trail and at Backbone Rock Recreation Area.
Looking to try something new? Let the locals be your guide and choose from guided fly fishing with [Stone Fly Co.], horseback riding with Appalachian Horseback Riding Adventures, or [stop by Damascus Outfitters] to check about a hiker shuttle.
Explore Downtown
Pick up your morning coffee at [Wilson’s Cafe] or [The Coffee Thief].For a heartier sit-down breakfast, the Damascus Diner is the best around. From May to October, stop by the Damascus Farmers Market for your pick of produce and fresh-baked snacks.
At the end of the day, refuel at one of the local restaurants. The first stop off of the Virginia Creeper Trail is Wicked Chicken Winghouse and Tavern, known for its sandwiches, wraps, bowls, and wings. Swing by [The Tipsy Bear] for wings, burgers, wood-fired pizza, and more. For upscale dining, have a seat on the waterfront patio at the Damascus Old Mill Inn and order the filet mignon or blackened trout.
Ice cream before dinner? Find a wide selection of hand-dipped ice cream flavors at both Wicked Chicken and [The Coffee Thief]. If you don’t want to wait until you get back to town, stop halfway down the Virginia Creeper Trail in Taylors Valley at Hellbender’s Cafe.
Take your pick of spirits and cocktails at Appalachian Heritage Distillery, the only (legal) distillery on the entire Appalachian Trail. Grab a local beer at The Damascus Brewery. Both watering holes are dog-friendly. Find rotating taps at most of the restaurants and a bourbon bar at the Damascus Old Mill Inn. Follow the sound of music to discover new artists along main street on most weekends.
Extend Your Stay
Damascus boasts a variety of lodging options and a long list of reasons to extend your stay. Choose from traditional bed and breakfasts, cabins, RV and tent camping, hostels, and a boutique hotel. Most of the lodging is just a short walk or bike to downtown – a different kind of park and ride.
Popular bed and breakfasts include Lady Di’s B&B, Barrett House Riverside Lodging, and [Wheeler’s Inn]. Not only do you get a place to sleep and a delicious meal, but you can also expect an extra dose of small-town hospitality and invaluable local knowledge.
Find your home away from home at one of the many vacation rentals in town. For larger groups, book multiple cabins at Damascus Cabins or Creeper Trail Cottages, or stay together at the six-bedroom Virginia Creeper Lodge. For a unique boutique hotel experience, [The Speckled Trout Outpost] offers thirteen suites and charming amenities right on main street.
Bring your own lodging to Damascus Creekside RV Park or Laurel Creek RV Park. Find more private, scenic campgrounds nearby at Backbone Rock Recreation Area and Beartree Lake Recreation Area.
If you’re thinking of extending your stay in Southwest Virginia, use Damascus as your basecamp and venture out to catch a performance at the Barter Theatre, try your luck at the new Bristol Casino, ride offroad at Doe Mountain Recreation Area in Tennessee, and check other Virginia state parks off the list with Hungry Mother State Park and Natural Tunnel State Park.
Plan your next adventure today!
The Find Your Way to Adventure trip itinerary was first published in the September 2022 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.
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