TransVirginia Grand Depart, first finisher of 2024, Aaron Gillespie

Tag: Virginia Creeper Trail

  • Crossroads of History & Trail Culture

    Crossroads of History & Trail Culture

    Damascus Trail Center exhibit for Chain Reaction: How Bikes Led to a Trail-Town Revolution

    Chain Reaction: How Bikes led to a Trail Town Revolution

    Nestled in the Blue Ridge Highlands, Damascus stands at a crossroads of history and trail culture. Known today as “Trail Town USA,” Damascus reflects a uniquely American story – one shaped by exploration, industry, conservation, and recreation.

    Today, Damascus thrives on outdoor recreation. The Virginia Creeper Trail draws cyclists from around the world. The Appalachian Trail, which connects 14 states of the nation, passes directly through town. The many trails cement Damascus as a gathering place for riders and hikers alike. As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Damascus invites visitors to reflect on the American spirit: resilience, reinvention, and the simple joy of the journey. Here, every mile traveled is part of a story still unfolding.

    Long before the nation’s founding, Cherokee and Shawnee peoples traversed these lands. In 1759, frontiersman Daniel Boone blazed a path through the region, opening it to settlement here and out west. By the late 1700s, as the United States was born, small communities like Mock’s Mill (later Damascus) began to take root along vital pathways.

    In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Damascus became a center of the timber boom. Railroads cut through the mountains, fueling industry and growth. As America matured, so too did its values. Conservation efforts led by the United States Forest Service restored these lands, ensuring their beauty would endure for generations.

    Damascus History Tour

    Virginia Creeper Trail

    A Rail-Trail Hall of Famer

    For centuries, people and wildlife have followed this winding mountain corridor. What began as a Native American footpath later carried pioneers – including Daniel Boone. Then, carrying supplies, lumber, ore, and passengers, the “Virginia Creeper” trains moved slowly through the mountains for over 80 years, much like the native Virginia Creeper vines they were named after.

    Now, autumn in the region brings thousands of visitors. Folks come from all over to take in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the beautiful changes to the leaves.

    From Rails to Trail

    • Late 1880s: Abingdon Coal & Iron Railroad begins securing right-of-way through the mountains.
    • 1900: First train steams into Damascus; the Virginia-Carolina Railway is officially running.
    • 1912: Line extended to Whitetop, Virginia, becoming the highest standard-gauge rail station east of the Rockies.
    • 1918: Railroad stretches 75 miles to North Carolina, crossing 100+ trestles.
    • 1919: Norfolk & Western takes control, renames it to the “Abingdon Branch.”
    • 1957: Last steam engine retired; diesel takes over.
    • March 31, 1977: Final train runs. The Creeper falls silent.
    • 1987: The Virginia Creeper Trail was dedicated as a National Recreation Trail by act of Congress.
    • 2014: The Virginia Creeper Trail was inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame.
    • September 2024: Hurricane Helene destroyed 18 miles of trail and 33 trestles.
    • Late 2025: $240 million contract awarded to Kiewit Infrastructure South Co., rebuild begins.
    • March 31, 2027: The Creeper rides again!
    Virginia Creeper Trail
    Bike Outfitters & Shuttles

    TransAmerica Bicycle Trail

    US Bicycle Route 76

    Planning to bike across the country began in 1973. The route now spans between Yorktown, Virginia, and the Oregon coast. Riders climb through the Appalachians, along stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and pass through communities like Damascus.

    By 1976, with maps printed and bikes loaded with supplies, 4,000 cyclists set off. This was the start of what would become one of the most storied long-distance routes in history, in celebration of the American Bicentennial!

    Virginia holds a special place in this trail’s history. It was among the first states to receive official designation from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Established federally in 1982, Route 76 and Route 1 span Virginia, primarily on public roads. From the East Coast to its Southwestern borders, Virginia features over 830 miles of mountain scenes, small-town charm, and roads worth remembering.

    In Southwest Virginia, the route reaches one of its most dramatic landmarks: Breaks Interstate Park. Here, Breaks Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the South,” drops 1,600 feet, carved over millions of years by the Russell Fork River. After crossing the park, the TransAmerica riders roll onward into Kentucky, continuing their westward journey.

    Fun Fact: 35.5% of US-76 is located in Virginia…more than any other state along the entire route!

    TransAmerica Bicycle Trail
    TransVirginia Grand Depart, first finisher of 2024, Aaron Gillespie

    TransVirginia Bike Route

    Biking Across Virginia

    The TransVirginia Bike Route offers the state’s best backcountry bikepacking. It traverses a variety of challenging climbs in remote areas of Virginia’s beautiful mountains, national forests, and public lands.

    Riders can follow an established route to avoid technical singletrack and the steepest grades. Typically, riders need to carry no more than one to two days of supplies between resupply points. A reliable gravel, touring, or mountain bike in good working order is recommended. Wide tires, strong wheels, capable brakes (disc brakes preferred), low gearing, and bikepacking bags for carrying essential gear will help ensure a safe and successful journey.

    Bike from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. to the historic caboose in Damascus. Follow a mix of unpaved country and forest roads, doubletrack, and rail-trails. The original TransVA Mountain 565 route remains the most challenging option for riders, with elevation gain totaling 47,284 feet.

    The TransVA Grand Depart is the Saturday before Memorial Day weekend every year. Riders depart en masse from the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. at 6am to begin their Individual Time Trials (ITT). 565 miles later, they arrive at the historic red caboose here in Damascus, Virginia!

    TransVirginia Bike Route

    Grayson Gravel Traverse

    Connecting Virginia’s High-Country Rail Trails

    The Grayson Gravel Traverse connects the Virginia Creeper Trail and the New River Trail. It’s a 72-mile journey across quiet gravel roads and mountain backways. This hidden route is long known to locals but still largely undiscovered. Grayson Gravel offers some of the finest gravel riding in Southwest Virginia.

    Riders pass through remote valleys, working farmland, forested ridgelines, and clear mountain streams flowing from the Appalachian Highlands to the New River. Beginning high at Whitetop and rolling through the Grayson County seat of Independence, it then continues downward to reach the river valley in Fries.

    With grades reaching 15%, the Traverse isn’t a casual ride. The reward for effort is solitude, remarkable scenery, and some of the finest gravel roads Southwest Virginia has to offer.

    Grayson Gravel Traverse
    ALDHA trail work at the Straight Branch Shelter on the Iron Mountain Trail

    Iron Mountain Trail

    With 34 miles of multi-use trail, this remarkable escape along the Iron Mountain ridgeline began as part of the Appalachian Trail. From 1937 until 1972, the A.T. bypassed the Mount Rogers High Country along what is now the Iron Mountain Trail.

    A lesser-known trail, this Iron Mountain route is a diamond in the rough. The trail is open to bikers, bikepackers, hikers, equestrians, and even dual-sport motorcyclists along the western portion. The Iron Mountain Trail has also become known for bikepacking. The Iron helps connect long-distance bikepacking routes, including the Eastern Divide Trail and Southern Highlands Traverse. For trail runners, it hosts the Iron Mountain Trail Run each September, with race distances up to 50 miles.

    Retro-blazing the Appalachian Trail

    For the 2026 season, the Iron Mountain Trail has been reunited with the Appalachian Trail once again. The Iron serves as the official detour during the post-Helene reconstruction of the Virginia Creeper Trail.

    Two trail shelters and a separate campsite remain from the days when the Iron Mountain Trail was a part of the Appalachian Trail. Repairs and maintenance done by volunteers and members of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy help keep these sites ready for the various groups of users who still seek shelter as they travel across the backbone of Iron Mountain.

    Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    Celebrating America’s 250th

    First displayed as a public exhibit at the Damascus Trail Center, Chain Reaction: How Bikes Led to a Trail-Town Revolution, invited visitors to explore the rich trail history and cultural significance of Southwest Virginia as part of America’s 250th anniversary in the 2026 season. The exhibit was a reflection on the American spirit: one of resilience, reinvention, and the simple joy of the journey.

    The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence and the 50th anniversary of the Bikecentennial. The Chain Reaction exhibit highlights Damascus’s unique role as a hub at the intersection of several nationally recognized trails, including the Virginia Creeper Trail, the Iron Mountain Trail, the TransVirginia Bike Route, and U.S. Bicycle Route 76. This temporary exhibit served as a waypoint on these long-distance routes. The Damascus Trail Center is a symbol of welcome for all cyclists and travelers to “Trail Town USA.”

    This project was part of a statewide initiative. Chain Reaction was one of nine projects funded through the PEDAL (Public Exhibitions, Displays, Art, and Logos) grant program by Virginia Tech and the Virginia Association of Museums.

    Bike 76 VA Podcast
    Article: Pedal Through the Past

  • Peak Happiness

    Peak Happiness

    Wild ponies along Wilburn Ridge on the Appalachian Trail near Damascus

    Explore Trails Less Traveled

    While the Appalachian Trail receives most of the attention, there are several other trails and parks in the Washington County region. So, for those who wish to venture off the beaten path, here are six places to enjoy a day hike in the region.

    Grayson Highlands State Park

    Tucked between Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Grayson Highlands offers views of the surrounding 5,000-foot-high peaks. Hiking trails within the park lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks, but the main attraction is the park’s wild ponies. There are also trails for mountain biking and horseback riding.

    Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    The options at Mount Rogers are as expansive as the recreation area itself, with more than 400 miles of trails located within the approximately 200,000 acres of national forest land. Popular attractions include the same herd of wild free-ranging ponies, massive rock formations and the highest elevation road in Virginia.

    Virginia Creeper Trail

    The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile pathway stretches from Abingdon through Damascus and onto Mount Rogers. The trail crosses nearly 50 wooden trestles and passes a diverse landscape, ranging from open farmland to dense forests to flowing streams. In 2014, the trail was inducted into the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame.

    Salt Trail

    One of the easiest ways to enjoy the great outdoors is along the Salt Trail, which runs for nearly 9 miles from Glade Spring to Saltville in Smyth County. This trail is mostly flat as it passes through both woodland and farmland, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride. [The Salt Trail is another historic rail-to-trail project, and is still a work in progress.]

    Mendota Trail

    The Mendota Trail is a new rail-to-trail project located in western Washington County. The 12.5-mile hiking and biking corridor runs from Mendota to Bristol. [The Mendota Trail opened to the public in 2023.]

    Appalachian Trail (Section Hike)

    Of course, there is always the biggest trail of them all. The Appalachian Trail enters Washington County from the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, crossing the state line just south of Damascus. From there, it continues into the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and the massive 1.8-million-acre Jefferson National Forest (with nearly 23,000 acres located in Washington County) before cutting across a corner of Grayson Highlands State Park.

    This article, Peak Happiness, was first published in the 2024 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.

  • A Perfect Day

    A Perfect Day

    Bikes parked in front of the Damascus Diner

    Uncover Hidden Gems

    Looking to spend a full day wandering around Washington County and experiencing all that the area has to offer? Here’s a curated itinerary to help you have the most fabulous day imaginable, from morning until night.

    Morning

    Start the day off on the right foot: with breakfast and coffee, obviously! If you’re craving a full, hot meal with all the fixings, you simply must grab a table at [The Damascus Diner]. If grab-and-go is more your style, head on over to [The Coffee Thief] for a cup of coffee and delicious pastry.

    After enjoying your morning meal, it’s time for a little action to get the blood pumping. Find the nearest bike rental retailer (like Adventure Damascus & Sundog Outfitter) and hop on their provided shuttle to Whitetop Station, skipping an uphill climb.

    When you’re ready to start your ride, you’ll travel downhill along the Virginia Creeper Trail all the way back to Damascus. That’s 17 beautiful miles and one of the most breathtaking and relaxing bike rides you’ll ever take, thanks to the very gentle downward grade and incredible Virginia scenery.

    Of course, if biking isn’t your thing, you can always go for an easy hike along the Appalachian Trail. Be sure to stop by the Damascus Trail Center first to plan out your route.

    Afternoon

    After such invigorating outdoor excursions, it’s a safe bet that you’re hungry again, right? Stop in at Wicked Chicken Winghouse and Tavern to refuel on wings, burgers, fresh salads and more.

    If day drinking sounds appealing right about now, you could also head over to The Damascus Brewery and try something off an extensive catalog of craft brews. To remember the whole experience, purchase one of the many memorable and unique souvenirs at Discover Damascus.

    This article, A Perfect Day, was first published in the 2025 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.

  • Trailtown Fitness Run Club

    Trailtown Fitness Run Club

    Join Alyx & Amanda for a free community run club at 5:45 pm on Wednesday evenings.

    This entry level runner with a hiking option will be all pace friendly with alternating trail options thru beautiful Damascus, Virginia.

    Come and join Amanda or Alyx for around an hour total on the Appalachian or Creeper Trails.

  • Reeled In

    Reeled In

    Trout fishermen on Laurel Creek by the Damascus Old Mill LOVE sign
    Fall Season on Whitetop Laurel

    Lifelong Anglers Share Their Love for the Sport

    “My love for fishing has never failed me,” says Alan Necessary, owner of Washington County’s successful supply store, Appalachian Baits. “It’s such a stress reliever for me. Whether you catch a fish or not, it gets your mind off any other problems you may have in life.”

    Mountainous terrain stretches across Southwest Virginia, carving some of the most coveted rivers and streams for fishing enthusiasts near and far. The shimmering scales of various freshwater fish, like bass, trout, walleye and musky, attract anglers from all over the country.

    Generational Anglers

    Around this region, a wholesome love for fishing seems almost like a common trait passed down within families. “My grandfather, my dad and my entire family have all been trout fishermen,” Necessary says.

    Bruce Wankel, who opened Virginia Creeper Fly Shop in 1994, offers similar sentiments toward the familial feeling. “Growing up, my family thought fishing was the most fun a person could have,” he says. “And it seemed like there was always something interesting going on around the local streams, rivers and TVA lakes where we fished.”

    It’s important to acknowledge, as locals will remind you, that fishing is clearly a cherished and traditional sport in the Washington County area. It’s not merely about gain or competition. This is immersing yourself in the simplicity of nature and spending time with the people you care about. Why not backdrop those memories with some gorgeous Appalachian scenery?

    Fly fisherman in Laurel Creek

    Activities Bait Attention

    The key to the increasing popularity of Washington County streams and lakes? It may have something to do with the growing number of outdoorsy businesses, campsites and public trails.

    “I purposefully suggest folks in my audience to come and stay not just for a day of guided fly-fishing with us, but to put together a plan for a long weekend, or better yet, a full week of activities in the area,” Wankel says.

    Perhaps the easiest way to blend an outdoorsy vacation with a fishing agenda is to visit the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus. Each year, over 150,000 people head to the picturesque 34-mile bike trail. “You’ll see a lot of bike riders on the Creeper Trail that have fly rods or spinning equipment on their backs. Just about everywhere along the trail, there’s some sort of stream beside it,” Necessary says.

    While in the area, be sure to watch for festivals and competitive fishing derbies to catch some angler action. After reeling ‘em in, Washington County features a roster of restaurants, art galleries, theaters and live-music venues for your itinerary.

    Fishing Hot Spots

    “There’s such a wide variety of fish in this county, alone. You can fish the rivers, lakes and mountain streams to target just about any species of freshwater fish that you want to catch,” Necessary says. A few of the most recognizable spots in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee are South Holston Lake, Whitetop Laurel Creek, Beaverdam Creek and Beartree Lake.

    Whitetop Laurel Creek is a hot spot for trout – rainbow, brown, brook and wild trout. In addition, Big Tumbling Creek is deliberately stocked three to four times a week with trout during the warm seasons. It’s another gem for anglers – perhaps even the most far-reaching. “I was just at Big Tumbling today and met a guy that had traveled from Ohio. He’s staying here for a week just to fish Big Tumbling,” Necessary says.

    The combination of abundant fishing opportunities, breathtaking scenery and a welcoming community creates an experience unlike any other. Those who cast a line in this part of Appalachia will not only leave with memories that will last a lifetime, but also a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and rich traditions that define this region.

    This article, Reeled In, was first published in the 2025 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.

  • Mountain Magic

    Mountain Magic

    fall colors from Trestle 16 on the Virginia Creeper Trail

    A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

    Mountain Magic: Outdoor enthusiasts praise the region’s abundance of nature.

    Washington County is a prime location for outdoors enthusiasts of all levels. At the intersection of several famous trail systems, the region is a desirable destination for anyone seeking to live closer to nature and be a part of a community full of adventurers. 

    As a lifelong Damascus resident, Michael Wright has made a living promoting Washington County’s outdoor wonders through his local businesses. He owns and operates Adventure Damascus Bicycles, Damascus Outfitters, and Trailhead Designs, as well as Hellbender’s Cafe on the Virginia Creeper Trail. The area’s prime location amid the Appalachian Mountains brings with it an abundance of outdoor amenities. Hikers can hop onto portions of the Appalachian Trail, which cuts through the area, or the Virginia Creeper Trail, offering over 34 miles of multiuse paths. 

    “Damascus is truly a haven for outdoor enthusiasts,” Wright says.

    Hiker on the Appalachian Trail on a sunny winter day
    Family biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail in early fall

    Appalachian Bound

    Living among the natural beauty of the area has allowed Wright to build a life and career in the outdoors industry, from opening the first full-service bike shop on the Virginia Creeper Trail to a high-quality outfitter for Appalachian Trail hikers. “I have been able to create many jobs, make a living and raise a family in the small community I grew up in,” Wright says. “I have also felt that it was my duty to try and share the beauty of the area and help create some fun memories for as many visitors as I can.”

    Damascus has become known as the “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail.” This is due in part to the number of amenities for thru-hikers making the journey from Georgia to Maine. Damascus Outfitters carries all the essentials a hiker might need, along with fun souvenirs to remember the journey by. 

    The Damascus Trail Center, in collaboration with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, helps educate visitors about the history and significance of the trail and Damascus’ role in stewarding the land. 

    Wright sees proximity to nature and outdoor opportunities as essential to the overall health of individuals and their communities. “Our walkaable communities and our local trail systems help to improve a person’s mind and body,” Wright says. 

    While the area’s natural beauty alone is enough to draw visitors, its hospitality is what makes people want to stay. The “Friendliest Town on the Appalachian Trail” doesn’t just cater to hikers. It’s for anyone with an appreciation and desire to connect with its natural abundance. “Washington County is not just a place to live – it’s a place to thrive,” says Wright.

    Backbone Rock near Damascus Virginia
    Wild ponies along Wilburn Ridge on the Appalachian Trail near Damascus

    Local Favorites

    Mount Rogers is Virginia’s highest peak. The hike offers views not only of the surrounding mountains but of the wild ponies that reside there. Hikers can also enjoy a short trek to Buzzard Rock on Whitetop Mountain. For a fun bike trek, start out at Hellbender’s Cafe in Taylors Valley and ride to Straight Branch. Or, for an easy day out, Wright suggests a picnic at Backbone Rock.

    Livability Magazine, Washington County

    This article, Mountain Magic, was first published in the 2025 issue of Livability magazine. Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at Livability Washington County.

  • Tips for the Trail

    Tips for the Trail

    Day hikers on the Appalachian Trail in the Mount Rogers High Country near Damascus, VA

    Hit the Trails Responsibly

    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!

    Summer day hiking in the Mount Rogers High Country near Damascus, VA
    Scout troop biking the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus, Virginia

    Trail Alerts & Closures

    Be sure to check for the latest updates on alerts and trail conditions around Damascus, Virginia. Know before you go.

    Damascus Area Trail Updates

    Check for any additional updates from land managers and nonprofit partners here:

    Additional resources

    Trail Maintenance

    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.

  • Damascus Area Trail Updates

    Damascus Area Trail Updates

    Scout troop biking the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus, Virginia

    Trail Updates Around Damascus

    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
    • Feb-Apr: Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law

    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.

    Appalachian Trail Updates
    National Forest Alerts

    Damascus is your basecamp for adventure

    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:

    Forest Service Maps & App

    Virginia Creeper Trail: Open

    Virginia Creeper Trail, Start to Heart, Abingdon to Damascus

    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!

    Bike the Virginia Creeper Trail

    Virginia Creeper Trail: Upper Half Closed

    New bridge getting set in place for Virginia Creeper Trail rebuild, provided by Kiewit
    New bridge replacement on Virginia Creeper Trail rebuild 2026

    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 Closure Order
    Groundbreaking of the Virginia Creeper Trail, Whitetop section
    Groundbreaking of the Virginia Creeper Trail, Whitetop section
    Virginia Creeper Trail Set to Reopen March 31, 2027

    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.

    Forest Service: Reopening Announcement
    Virginia Creeper Trail Groundbreaking

    Groundbreaking, December 2025

    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

    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:

    Kiewit: Creeper Trail Rebuild
    Bike the Start to the Heart

    Appalachian Trail Detour

    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.

    Appalachian Trail Updates

    Burn Ban in Mount Rogers High Country

    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.

    US Forest Service Order
    Appalachian Trail Alert

    beartree Lake Restoration Project

    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 through the remainder of the 2026 season.

    US Forest Service: Beartree Project

    Grindstone Campground

    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

    Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law

    Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law is in effect from February 15 through April 30 each year. It is important to note that some localities may have even more restrictive regulations on outdoor burning than the state’s 4 PM Burning Law. All burners are encouraged to check with their locality before starting any outdoor burning.

    The 4 PM Burning Law bans open-air burning prior to 4:00 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass which could carry fire to the woods. Burning is allowed between 4:00 p.m. and midnight as long as the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times.

    Virginia’s 4 PM Burning Law

    (Updated September 22, 2026)

  • A Trail of Two Cities

    A Trail of Two Cities

    Signpost Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus Virginia, Rail Trail Hall of Fame

    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. 

    Group biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail
    Group biking the Virginia Creeper Trail

    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.

    Kayaking on South Holston Lake near Trestle 12 of the Virginia Creeper Trail

  • Road Trip to Trail Town USA 

    Road Trip to Trail Town USA 

    Backbone Rock near Damascus Virginia
    Hiker on Whitetop Mountain
    Hiker on the Appalachian Trail in the Mount Rogers High Country during the rhododendron bloom

    More than a Quick Stop

    Let’s take a road trip to Trail Town USA! Just a few miles off I-81, Damascus, Virginia is a hidden gem for road trippers seeking a family-friendly, affordable getaway. It’s even become a surprising spring break stopover for travelers from the Great Lakes and Canada en route to the coast. With its walkable, bikeable downtown, and direct access to both the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus offers more than a quick stop — it’s a launchpad for unforgettable mountain adventures.

    The Road to Outdoor Exploration

    This road trip season comes with exciting news. The long-anticipated reopening of US-58 just past Damascus is happening six months ahead of schedule in late May. Known as the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway, this stretch of road once again connects travelers to iconic outdoor destinations like Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and Grayson Highlands State Park! 

    Also known as Trail Town USA, Damascus is an outdoor paradise with something for everyone. The 17-mile Virginia Creeper Trail is now open to e-bikes, offering scenic rides from Abingdon to Damascus. Whitetop Mountain, home to Virginia’s highest road, provides stunning views and popular hiking on the Appalachian Trail. The peak, at 5,525 feet, is also perfect for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing. Damascus is a central hub for dual-sport motorcyclists, connecting the Mid-Atlantic and new Southeast Backcountry Discovery Routes from Florida to the NY-PA state line.

    Support Local

    Damascus has plenty to offer, from the hearty, homestyle meals at The Damascus Diner to the lively atmosphere at The Tipsy Bear, with trivia, karaoke, and a Sunday Bloody Mary Bar. Explore quirky shops like Green Cove Collective and [Traildog & Co.], plus classics like Sundog Outfitter. Stay at The Speckled Trout Outpost, a boutique hotel on Laurel Avenue, and don’t miss Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, known as the only legal distillery on the Appalachian Trail.

    Group of motorcycle enthusiasts in front of Appalachian Heritage Distillery
    Appalachian Trail Days Hiker Parade on Laurel Avenue in Damascus, VA

    Proximity – How Far to Trail Town USA

    • Knoxville, TN – 140 miles SW
    • Raleigh, NC – 240 miles SE
    • Atlanta, GA – 330 miles SW

    Trail Town USA Pitstop!

    Just 4 miles from Damascus, Backbone Rock is home to the world’s shortest tunnel. This is a popular spot for picnics, trout fishing, and swimming holes. It also features a campground and short hikes to the rock’s summit and a waterfall.

    The Trail Town USA Road Trip itinerary was first published in the June 2025 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine.