From it’s beginning as a Native American foot trail to its current use as a multiple use recreational trail, the Virginia Creeper Trail has seen many changes in 100+ years of existence. In the early 1900s, the trail was used as a rail line to haul lumber and passengers from Abingdon, VA to Elkland, NC (Now Todd, NC). A one-way trip of over 34 miles (54.72 km) that will find you passing over 100 trestles and bridges.
The Virginia Creeper Trail provides a 34 mile (54.72 km) passage through southwest Virginia’s mountains well suited for hiking, horseback riding and bicycling, as well as a convenient path to many great fishing locations. The Creeper Trail received its name for the methodical way the train moved up the gradual incline to the top of the mountain.
The history of the VCT is as long and twisty as a railroad itself. Where the VCT lies today was once part of the Norfolk & Western Railway’s Abingdon Line. Starting in the 1800s, trains began transporting timber from old-growth forests located atop Whitetop Mountain to a lumber mill in Damascus, Virginia. The line earned the nickname of “The Virginia Creeper” due to the sluggish speed it traveled up and down the steep mountain grades. In fact, rail workers were able to walk beside the train and pick berries before hopping back on.
By the late 1920s the local lumber industry had shut down, and for the next 50 years the line served as a passenger train helping to connect the isolated mountain towns in the region. By the late 1970s, Abingdon dentist Dr. French Moore Jr. began to champion the idea of converting the defunct rail line into a trail. He met fierce opposition from some of his neighbors and locals in other towns along the line who feared the change that this new resource might bring.
Moore persevered. With help from his state senator, Rick Boucher, and the backing of the National Park Service, he was able to see his vision come to fruition in 1987 when the entire 34.3-mile Virginia Creeper Trail was opened to the public. Today the VCT is considered one of the best rail trails in the eastern United States, regularly attracting thousands of visitors each year. That tourism traffic has turned the towns of Abingdon and Damascus into recreation hubs, providing a base of operations not just for the Creeper Trail but for Southwest Virginia’s other outdoor hidden gems.
Areas like Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Grayson Highlands State Park, and Iron Mountain Trail are all easily accessible from these towns and offer plenty of options for a multi-day trip to the region. The VCT is tucked into a sparsely populated corner of Virginia and runs from Abingdon to Whitetop Mountain on the Virginia/North Carolina border.
Hikers, bikers, and equestrians share the crushed-limestone and hard-packed dirt trail. It’s extremely popular with families looking to have an all-day, or even overnight, bike trip. Kids will love the downhill, coasting friendly nature of the trail from Whitetop to Damascus.
At times the trail parallels Whitetop Laurel Creek through a deep narrow gorge where there are both spectacular whitewater rapids and the occasional quiet swimming hole. At other times the trail crosses trestles, some of which are more than 500 feet (0.15 kilometers) high and afford insanely beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. White steeple churches and homes from an early era dot the landscape as you enter and exit towns.
The Bike Station wants you to have the best possible experience on The Virginia Creeper Trail. We maintain our bikes in top condition and provide repair kits with each group of rental bikes. Our experienced drivers always take it slow and easy to the top of the mountain to give you the most comfortable ride.
On this page, you’ll find the answers to our most frequently asked questions and complete information to prepare you and your group for a fun and successful ride on The Virginia Creeper Trail. If you need further information please give us a call.
Your Virginia Creeper Trail experience begins at our location: 401 E 3rd Street, Damascus, Virginia. We’ll get you set up with a shuttle and bike rental. From there, we’ll transport you and your bike—whether it’s a rental or your own—to the trailhead in Abingdon. You’ll then enjoy a scenic 17-mile ride back to our shop in Damascus, where your adventure concludes right at our doorstep.
No, the trail is not closed. The upper section between Whitetop and Damascus sustained substantial damage from Hurricane Helene and is presently under repair. The good news is that the scenic 17-mile stretch between Abingdon and Damascus is fully open and in excellent condition—perfect for a ride! Give us a call to plan your visit.
The ride from Abingdon to our shop in Damascus covers approximately 17 miles.
Yes—restroom facilities are available at the Abingdon trailhead and Alvarado Station (with limited food and snack items), with porta-johns also located at the Watauga Parking Area. However, there are no food or water stations on this section of the trail, so we recommend bringing your own supplies.
The ride typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. We encourage riders to take their time—there are many beautiful spots to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Shuttle/Rental times: 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30
Shuttle only (bring your own bike): 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Shuttle/Rental times: 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, and 12:30
Shuttle only (bring your own bike): 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30
Helmets are strongly recommended for your safety but not required by the state of Virginia. A helmet is included with each rental—be sure to pick one up before you head out on the trail.
The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches 34 miles, beginning in Abingdon, passing through Damascus, and ending at Whitetop Station. It’s commonly divided into two distinct 17-mile sections:
The upper half runs from Whitetop to Damascus, featuring a steady downhill grade and high elevation.
The lower half runs from Abingdon to Damascus, offering a more gradual and scenic ride with mild elevation changes.
Elevation details:
Abingdon: 2,087 ft
Damascus: 1,952 ft
Whitetop Station: 3,576 ft
Each section offers its own unique experience and scenery, making the trail a great choice for riders of all levels.
Yes, the trail is safe and well-suited for all skill levels. It features hard-packed gravel and wooden trestles. While cell service is limited on the Whitetop to Damascus section, the Abingdon to Damascus section generally has service throughout. Emergency access points are located along the trail if needed.
The Virginia Creeper Trail is accessible and welcoming to riders with special needs. We accommodate tricycles, e-bikes, and pull-behind buggies, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the trail. Service animals and leashed dogs are welcome companions—just be sure to keep them under control at all times. Our goal is to make the trail experience enjoyable and safe for all visitors.
Yes, e-bikes are allowed on the Virginia Creeper Trail. We offer e-bike rentals, and if you bring your own, we’re happy to shuttle it for you. Just select the “Bike Trail Shuttle Only” option when booking online.
There are no restaurants on the Abingdon to Damascus section of the trail. However, when open, Alvarado Station offers snacks, ice cream, and souvenirs.
Yes! There are a total of 47 trestles along the 34-mile-long Virginia Creeper Trail, repurposed from the original railroad infrastructure. The upper half of the trail, from Whitetop to Damascus, features 30 trestles, while the lower half includes 17 trestles. These crossings offer scenic views and an added sense of adventure to your ride or hike.
Parts of the trail are within the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, and the Appalachian Trail runs concurrently with The Trail for a few miles. Camping may be allowed on these public lands. The Trail also passes through private property which should be respected.
Nope! Our location is just about 100 yards from the Virginia Creeper Trail, making it easy to hop on and start exploring. You can rent a bike for 4 or 6 hours and enjoy the trail at your own pace—no shuttle needed.
The Virginia Creeper Trail features a surface primarily made of crushed limestone, cinders, and gravel sections. This mix creates a firm, stable, and comfortable ride that’s gentle on your tires and great for all skill levels. The surface holds up well in light to moderate rain, though it can become softer or slightly muddy in some spots after heavy downpours.
Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your own bike. We offer a shuttle-only service for riders who prefer to use their own gear. When making a reservation online, simply select “Trail Shuttle Only (Bring Your Own Bike)” and choose your preferred day and time.