Get outside and enjoy the outdoors this weekend with a bike ride! May is National Bike Month in Virginia, and with dozens of trails and events, you can find something nearby that suits your skill level. Choose one of these bicycling activities and discover an affordable way to experience fun and adventure in Virginia.
Bike-Friendly Towns
Even some of the busiest cities in Virginia have bike-friendly areas that allow you to safely cycle. In Virginia Beach, bicyclers use the Boardwalk to travel three miles up and down the coast while taking in the expansive ocean views. If you have younger children, rent a surrey (shown above) and ride as a group. The city has bike lanes along some of the roads and for bicyclers looking to avoid heavy pedestrian or vehicle traffic, First Landing State Park offers miles of trails through undeveloped wilderness.
Mountain Biking
Take on a more rugged adventure this weekend and try your hand at mountain biking around Virginia. The Mountain Bike Trail at Breaks Interstate Park has about 13 miles of routes, with trails ranging from moderate to difficult. Called “the Grand Canyon of the South”, this state park has breathtaking scenery surrounding the bike paths.
Discover More Mountain Bike Trails
Bikes & Brews
Get a reward for your next bike ride in the form of a nice cold Virginia beverage when you plan near one of the Virginia Craft Breweries. The Washington & Old Dominion Trail spans over 44 miles from Arlington to Purcellville, with six breweries close to the trails. These breweries include:
- Hops Grill Brewery in Alexandria
- Capitol City Brew Company in Arlington
- Mad Fox Brewing Co. in Falls Church
- Beltway Brewing Company in Sterling
- Lost Rhino Brewing Company in Ashburn
- Vintage 50 Brew Lounge in Leesburg
Look for Bike Trails & Breweries Near You
Rails to Trails
Old Virginia railway trails have been repurposed and turned into bike trails around the state. One example of this is the James River Heritage Trail that runs through Lynchburg and the surrounding scenic countryside. The trail is nine miles long and gives stunning views of the James and Lynchburg Rivers.
See All of the Rails to Trails Routes
Whether you want a more laid back route through the countryside or are interested in challenging yourself with a daunting mountain bike trail, Virginia bike trails range in length, difficulty, and terrain to match your preferences. Try one of these bicycling activities and enjoy your two-wheeled travel during National Bike Month this May.
© pkeppel for Virginia’s Travel Blog, 2016. |
Post tags: Biking in Virginia, National Bike Month, outdoor lovers