Landmarks
The Virginia Creeper Trail
Following the route of an old railroad bed, the Virginia Creeper Trail is named for the steam engine that once chugged along it and for the Virginia Creeper vine that populates the area. With the abandonment of many railroads in the 1970s, a national movement gained momentum to convert train tracks into trails.
A coalition of local citizens, government and the US Forest Service banded together to acquire the old railroad right-of-way, and thus the Creeper Trail was born in 1987. The 34-mile multi-use trail begins in Abingdon, a popular access point at Mile 0, and then carries on through rolling farmland to Damascus at Mile 15.5. From there, the Virginia Creeper winds up to its highest point at Whitetop Station, offering plenty of amenities and activities along the way.
"Spectacular scenery and a gentle ride make the Virginia Creeper Trail a true bucket list experience."
The gentle grade and easy access points make the Creeper Trail fun for all members of the family, young and old.
Anyone looking to see spectacular scenery and cover a lot of ground with minimal effort, especially families seeking an outdoor activity that everyone can enjoy. With options to make this trail extremely easy or very difficult, anyone can find their perfect activity and have a great time on the Virginia Creeper Trail.
Anglers use the trail to access some of the best trout fishing in Virginia. Equestrians take advantage of the easy footing and wide path available to horses (a code of conduct mandates that cyclists yield to horses so they don't get spooked).
Railroad historians search for date spikes and relics from the days when the trail was a working line that hauled people and timber from deep in the southwest Virginia mountains.
In 2014, the Virginia Creeper Trail was inducted in to the Rail-to-Trail Hall of Fame.
This national honor has only been given to 27 trails. The Rails to Trails Conservancy singled out the Creeper Trail for its remarkable scenery, fascinating railroad history, and excellent trailside amenities. Visit the Virginia Creeper Trail and see why it's a Hall of Fame Trail!
Get started
Do you think about a visit to the Virginia Creeper Trail? It's one of the most accessible trails, with plenty of outfitters, lodging, and dining nearby. It's equally popular with beginners and advanced riders; multiple entry points mean you can enjoy a leisurely 2-hour ride or challenge yourself with an all-day, 66-mile round trip. Although biking is popular with visitors, don't forget that hiking and horseback riding are also permitted.
The most common activity for first-time visitors is biking the section from Whitetop down to Damascus. Bike rental companies in Damascus and Abingdon will shuttle you to the top of the mountain for a leisurely 17-mile coast/pedal down to Damascus.
The ride takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. Stops along the way include the old railroad station at Green Cove, operated by the US Forest Service; check out the high trestle at Creek Junction, where the trail runs beside some of the best trout fishing in Virginia; or stop for a bite of lunch in the community of Taylor's Valley.
The trail is multi-use, and you'll also see hikers, joggers, and horseback riders as you make your way down the mountain.
The Virginia Creeper Trail Welcome Center, located at Mile Marker 0 in Abingdon, is open Friday - Monday, 10:00 - 4:00. The welcome center has ample information on the Trail and surrounding communities. Along with information, the welcome center also has Abingdon & Creeper Trail merchandise!
The section of the trail from Abingdon to Damascus is wide and level and winds through rolling farmland. Along this course section, it's not uncommon to see grazing horses and cows. Some might even come right up to the fence to say hello!
Start your adventure at The Creeper Trail Welcome Center in Abingdon, where you'll find free parking, or contact one of the local outfitters to arrange bike rental and shuttle service to White Top Station.
The Creeper Trail Bike Shop is located on Pecan Street, just two blocks from the trailhead. The shop offers bike rentals, sales and repairs, and a shuttle service.
The Martha Washington Inn & Spa offers a shuttle service available for guests and the general public.
Additional outfitters are located in Damascus, VA, a short drive from Abingdon.
History
The Virginia Creeper Trail runs on a rail right-of-way dating to the 1880s. In the early part of the last century, the rail line carried lumber to feed the busy sawmills of Virginia and North Carolina. Its name was inspired by the steam engines that slowly crept up the mountainside, although some argue that the name actually comes from the native Virginia Creeper vine that can be found growing along the trail.
By the 1970s, many railroads were abandoned so the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy began converting old railroad beds into trail systems for hikers and bikers. After the last train ran the route in 1977, the idea for The Creeper Trail was born, and it was completed in 1984.
Much of the trail goes through private land. In many places, the public trail corridor is only 80’ wide.
It is maintained by public-private partnerships between the U.S. Forest Service, the Towns of Abingdon and Damascus, and Virginia Creeper Trail volunteers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
The trail is very dog-friendly! You must follow some rules: All dogs must be on a 6-foot or shorter leash. You must ensure they don’t suddenly approach cyclists, especially children in an unfamiliar environment on a bicycle. All dog owners are required to clean up after their pets. Bring along a bag, or you can find some disposal bags at various points along the trail.
Are motorized vehicles allowed on the trail?
Special needs buggies and adult tricycles are welcomed on the trail. ADA-approved chairs and scooters are also allowed on the trail, including battery-operated ones. Golf carts and other motorized vehicles are prohibited on the trail.
How long does it take to bike the trail?
It takes an average of 5.5 hours, including a few stops along the way to bike the entire trail while enjoying the scenery and a bite to eat. From Whitetop to Damascus – 17 miles or so, you can count on approximately 2.5-3 hours and the ride from Damascus to Abingdon is another 17 miles and will take about 2.5 hours.
How is Cell Phone Reception?
Because of the terrain and the rural nature of the trail’s location, cell service is very limited and can be considered “spotty at best”, though service is available in Damascus and Abingdon. Please remember this as you make your plans, and, enjoy being unplugged for a while!
Are Ebikes allowed on the trail?
Generally, ebikes are prohibited on the trail, especially in the National Forest portions from Whitetop to Damascus.
Does the trail close for inclement weather?
The trail does remain open in inclement weather situations such as rain and snow. Use your best judgment when using the trail during poor weather conditions.
