Virginia’s Blue Ridge is known as the East Coast’s Mountain Biking Capital. Mountain biking and cycling are both popular activities around the Roanoke Valley, and with all the scenic trails, challenging pathways, and gorgeous vistas, it’s easy to see why. In fact, there are more than 400 miles of trails for biking, so air up your tires, put on your helmet, and get out there for a biking excursion in the Blue Ridge. Take a look at a few popular spots for varying skill levels.
Explore Park
Explore Park in Roanoke County offers a variety of paths and terrains, from easy outings to more challenging trails. This makes it a fine place to start if you’re new to mountain biking, and you can return to is as your skills improve. There are 14 trails total at the park, including nine miles specifically designed for biking. While you’re at Explore Park, check out the Blue Ridge Bike Center, which helps beginners learn the basics of mountain biking, familiarize themselves with trail techniques, and hone their biking abilities. Explore Park offers overnight lodging like cabins and campsites if you’d like to make a long weekend out of your adventure, and while you’re there, you can also enjoy other outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and standup paddle boarding.
Mill Mountain Park
Roanoke has the rare distinction of including a mountain inside city limits, and when you bike Mill Mountain Park, you can enjoy views of the town while also exploring the great outdoors. Nearby and easily accessible, the trail lets you take a break from the city below without ever being too far away, and as you ride, you’ll see landmarks like the Roanoke Star and the Mill Mountain Zoo. You’ll even see a pair of statues modeled after your chosen transportation, so be sure to snap a photo of the “Big Ol’ Bikes” statues.
Waid Park
At Waid Park in Franklin County, more than 15 miles of biking trails wind their way through the 500-acre park. The destination is a great choice for thrill seekers, as the trails include ramps, a technical singletrack, river crossings, a jump line, and rock gardens. When you need a break, you can relax at the park’s facilities, which includes picnic space and restrooms. The Pigg River Blueway also flows through the park, offering aquatic adventure like tubing and kayaking.
Dragon’s Back
If you’re looking for a real challenge, head to North Mountain to ride what enthusiasts call the “Dragon’s Back.” Named for the distinctive shape of its ridgeline, this trail system has earned high praise from professional mountain bikers, as the trails offer both the complexity that experts crave along with beautiful scenery in the wooded wilderness.
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Berglund Automotive Group
When you want to switch from two wheels to four, we’ll have the right ride ready for you within our family of dealerships around Roanoke. Berglund Automotive Group is sure to have the vehicle you need in our diverse selection, so take a look around our online inventory, then come see us at any of our dealerships. We look forward to seeing you on the lot soon.
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