Bicycling

Road/Tour Biking – Circuit Trips

There are many opportunities and good circuit trips available to make for a great day or week in exploring our scenic country sides, mountains, and valleys. Stop by the Lexington Visitor Center for maps of the area.

Goshen Pass Loop – Passes through a spectacular mountain pass as the Maury River cuts through it. A most agreeable natural spot, cooler in summer. Approximately 35-52 miles depending on route. From Lexington, 11 north to 39 west. Follow through the pass. There are several routes heading south that will bring you back into Lexington. Refer to visitor center map for return options.

Natural Bridge Loop – Takes you down through picturesque Rockbridge County. You may wish to stop and see Natural Bridge. Approximately 36 miles.

Lake Robertson Loop – Great countryside over hills and valley to Lake Robertson, which has a swimming pool and other mountain bike trails. About 26 miles. Start in Lexington, follow Rt. 11 south to Rt. 251. Follow signs to Lake Robertson.

Blue Ridge Parkway – From Buena Vista take 60 east to Parkway entrance. Turn south to the Buena Vista overlook parking area. Leave vehicle here and head on bike either north or south. Both offer miles of breathtaking views, scenic overlooks and some challenging rides. Hilly terrain in both directions. Road closures may occur in winter.

River Road – A flat, 4 mile road nestled along the Maury River offering a spot for sprint training or an easy 8 mile out and back ride. Take 501 south from Buena Vista and take a right onto River Road. You may want to bike from Lexington to Buena Vista via 60 east, park in Buena Vista and ride south on 501, or park at any of the several roadside pulloffs along River Road.

Brushy Hill Loop – From town take 60 west. Left on Borden Road. Left on Beatty Hollow. Left on Turnpike. This will become Enfield Road which will bring you back into town to complete the loop. This is a scenic, moderate loop with rolling hills.

Turkey Hill Loop – Follow Main St. north, left at bridge onto 631. Continue on 631 at fork. Follow river for several miles. Right on Bethany Road. Right onto Turkey Hill. Follow back to 631. Left onto 631 brings you back to Main St. 16 mile ride over rolling hills with beautiful county vistas.

Mountain Biking

Guy's Run – The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries hunter access roads are open for cycling at the Guy's Run Game Management Unit just west of Goshen Pass on Rt. 39. Provides miles of state-managed forest, 7.8 mile trip to Hog Back Mountain.

House Mountain – House Mountain also offers a challenge to cyclists to climb to one of the highest points in the area. See "Hiking" for directions.

Lake Robertson – Has a network of trails available for treks through beautiful forest lands. From Lexington take Rt. 11 south to Rt. 251. Follow signs to Lake Robertson.

Moore's Creek Dam – (Lexington City Reservoir) ride offers a 6 mile round tripper for the more adventuresome types who like very remote areas. See "Hiking" for directions.

North Mountain Highlands Scenic Tour – This ride includes many short-circuit trails atop North mountain where you'll enjoy views of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. To reach the trails from Lexington take I-64 west to exit #43; turn left off the ramp, go straight to FDR 447. Upon entering there is a kiosk on the right with a map of the various trail options. Terrain varies, in some cases, rock outcrops will require hiking. Use caution.

Resources

Bike the Valley – Maps and On-Road, Greenways & Paths, Gravel, and Mountain Bike routes of the Shenandoah Valley for the cycling enthusiast.
www.bikethevalley.org