From the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia State Parks are ideal for bikers to explore.
Virginia State Parks have more than 55 miles of biking and mountain biking trails, approximately 138 miles of hiking and biking trails, and around 256 miles of multiuse trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. (It’s difficult to measure exactly how many miles of trails exist in Virginia State Parks, because more trails are added every year.)
Here are just a few examples of biking opportunities in Virginia State Parks.
Just 20 miles from Richmond, Pocahontas State Park is a mountain biker’s dream destination. With more than 58 miles of trails available for mountain biking, you can choose from directional and multiuse trails, including single-track, machine-built flow and hand-cycle friendly routes. These trails are part of the International Mountain Bicycling Association Bronze-Level Richmond Regional Ride Center, making it one of the top biking destinations in the region. Choose from on-site yurts, cabins and campsites to be close to the action and to extend your visit. Visit again and again as more trails are added and the system continues to expand.
In coastal Virginia, York River State Park was the first Virginia State Park to create a bike-only trail guide.Nine multiuse and eight mountain bike-only trails are enough to fill a day with excitement and fun. Trails range from short and easy to the Marl Ravine Trail. The 6-mile, single track trail is for advanced riders only. HELMETS ARE REQUIRED. Twists and turns follow steep ravines cut into ancient shell deposits from the Tertiary Period when the entire area was under a shallow sea. The trail is steep and narrow in places, with occasional overhanging obstructions. Riders should familiarize themselves with trail etiquette and rules of the road before attempting Marl Ravine Trail.
Surrounded by the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Douthat State Park sits among the mountains near the Virginia border. Choose from 22 different trails varying in difficulty and length as you explore this mountainous retreat. All told, the park has more than 40 miles of multiuse trails. Fish for trout and bass in Douthat Lake or rent a canoe from the boathouse for some fun on the water. Fuel up at the restaurant overlooking the lake or pack a picnic to eat by a waterfall. Reserve a campsite by the lake and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the water.
In central Virginia, Staunton River State Park is the perfect biking destination by the water.
Take in views of Buggs Island Lake, Staunton River and Dan River as you race along one of eight multiuse trails. Beginner and intermediate riders will find plenty of loops to choose from as they test their skills outside. Cool off after a day on the trails with a paddle on the water, freshwater fishing or a swim in the pool. This International Dark Sky Park is also the perfect spot to make camp and watch the stars. Rent a telescope from the park for ideal viewing and don’t forget to check the schedule for interpretive programs.
For more on everything Virginia State Parks has to offer, visit virginiastateparks.gov.
