7 Most Bike-Friendly Towns in Virginia

For those looking for a two-wheeled adventure in the United States’ South Atlantic region, the beautiful state of Virginia has you covered. Not only is the Commonwealth of Virginia a popular destination for cyclists for its outstanding scenery, it also boasts several small towns that provide excellent infrastructure and scenic trails designed to keep bike enthusiasts pedaling. Well-maintained bike paths? Yes. Challenging mountain trails? Naturally. Vibrant local cycling communities? Of course!

Whether you’re interested in a leisurely ride along a flat coastal path or prefer rugged mountain trails, Virginia has a destination that fits the bill. Find out more with this list of the seven most bike-friendly towns in Virginia.

Abingdon

Located in southwestern Virginia and situated on I-85 connecting Knoxville, Tenneessee with Washington, D.C., Abingdon is a must-visit for cyclists due to its proximity to the Virginia Creeper Trail. This awesome 34-mile scenic rail trail stretches from Abingdon to the town of Damascus and further into North Carolina, offering a smooth ride through forests, over rivers, and past picturesque mountain views. It’s particularly popular in the fall when the foliage creates a colorful backdrop.

Abingdon also has a strong cycling community, supported by local groups like the Virginia Creeper Trail Club, a non-profit set up to maintain the trail network. Several cycling events are also worth mentioning, the best being April’s Virginia Creeper Fest which celebrates all aspects of outdoor recreation including, of course, biking.

Lexington

Lexington’s Shenandoah Valley location makes it a no-brainer for two-wheeled adventurers. This extremely bike-friendly destination features everything from scenic road rides through rolling hills and picturesque farmland to bike paths that lead to landmarks like the Natural Bridge, a geological wonder that’s accessible via the 36-mile Natural Bridge Loop. Lexington is also home to several designated bike routes that cater to different skill levels. From leisurely rides through town to more challenging trails like the House Mountain to one of the highest peaks in Virginia's portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Cycling enthusiasts will also find a supportive community through groups like the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition which organizes events and advocates for bike safety. The town also hosts happenings like the Lexington Road and River Relay, a fun triathlon-style event that combines biking with kayaking (or canoeing) and running.

Farmville

Not to be confused with the online simulation game (although it’s equally delightful), Farmville, Virgina has made a name for itself as a bike-friendly town. The highlight for cyclists here is High Bridge Trail State Park, a superb 31-mile bike route that runs through the heart of the community. It’s a perfect ride for cyclists of all levels thanks to its flat, crushed limestone trail which follows an old railway line. The highlight is High Bridge itself, a former railroad bridge turned pedestrian and bike path that boasts great views of the Appomattox River and the surrounding countryside.

Farmville’s bike culture is supported by several local businesses, including High Bridge Bike Rental and Repair which offers great rides for tourists to the town’s main attraction. The Friends of High Bridge Trail is another good source of biking info and helps maintain the trails and organizes cycling events, while the park itself operates a number of fun moonlight rides throughout the year.

Williamsburg

Home to one of Virginia’s top tourist attractions, Colonial Williamsburg, the town of Williamsburg has created unique bike-friendly experiences. A highlight is undoubtedly the Capital Trail, a fantastic 52-mile paved path connecting Williamsburg to Richmond. One of Virginia’s top cycling attractions, the trail passes through scenic landscapes, past historical markers, and through several enchanting small towns, making it a popular route for cyclists of all ages.

Biking through Colonial Williamsburg is a must-do here, with organized bike tours available if you don’t have your own set of wheels. Cycling groups like the Williamsburg Area Bicyclists (WAB) promote cycling safety and organize regular group rides and welcome new members or queries from visiting cyclists. Williamsburg also has several bike-friendly businesses, with locations like Conte's Bike Shop and Trek Bicycle Williamsburg providing sales, rentals, and repairs.

Blacksburg

Blacksburg is another bike-friendly community that’s easy to get to thanks to its location on I-81. Home to Virginia Tech, this charming college town offers a variety of cycling opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Most notably the Huckleberry Trail, a 15-mile paved path that connects Blacksburg to the nearby town of Christiansburg. Urban riders will be pleased to learn that the town also has a comprehensive network of bike lanes, making navigating its cyclist-friendly streets an easy (and safe) undertaking.

Blacksburg's cycling culture is bolstered by the presence of groups like the New River Valley Bicycle Association, which organizes rides and advocates for better biking infrastructure in the region. Enjoy competitive cycling? Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, events like the Blacksburg Classic combine running with cycling and are a great excuse for a visit.

Staunton

Its historic charm and scenic location in the Shenandoah Valley make Staunton a very appealing destination for cyclists. The town is a key stop for cyclists exploring the Shenandoah Valley, with numerous bike routes taking riders through rolling hills, past vineyards like Wolf Gap Vineyard & Winery (be sure to stop for a tasting), and even providing a chance to visit Civil War landmarks like Staunton’s Railroad Station Area, a major hub for goods for the Confederacy. The town itself features bike-friendly streets and easy access to nearby cycling routes.

Prefer mountain biking? Well, you’re in luck. Staunton is located close to some of the best trails in the George Washington National Forest, each offering plenty of rugged terrain to tackle, along with stunning views. Highlights on the cycling calendar include the Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival. Now in its 30th year, this event draws cyclists from around the country to enjoy the spectacular local fall colors.

Bristol

Located on the border between Virginia and Tennessee, Bristol is a charming small town that’s known for its vibrant music scene and bike-friendly atmosphere. The town offers a variety of cycling routes, including access to the scenic Mendota Trail. This 12.5-mile rail-trail ride runs through picturesque countryside, passing over rivers and through pretty valleys, with excellent views of the Appalachian Mountains along this well-maintained path.

Bristol is also known for its proximity to the Virginia Creeper Trail, which stretches 34 miles from nearby Abingdon, offering further cycling adventures for those seeking a longer ride. It also hosts events such as the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion where cycling is promoted as a healthy way to explore. Several bike shops in town offer rentals, repairs, and gear, including Mountain Sports, Boyd's Bicycle Shop, and the Blended Pedaler.

The Final Word

Whatever your biking preferences, there’s little doubt Virginia’s small towns provide cyclists with a wide range of opportunities to explore and have fun. Whether you enjoy gentle rides through historic destinations like Williamsburg or more challenging mountain trails like those in the National Forest near Staunton, Virginia’s best small towns cater to riders of all interests and skill levels. So, what are you waiting for? Get pedaling and check out these seven bike-friendly towns in Virginia.