The best gravel rides in Bedford County

Komoot currently features 5 challenging gravel bike routes in Bedford County. These routes offer a diverse experience across the region's varied terrain.

Bedford County's gravel trails feature a mix of rolling hills, remote forest roads, and scenic mountain views, where the Piedmont Plateau meets the Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll encounter both gradual inclines and significant elevation gains, with routes often passing through extensive forests and farmlands.

Yes, Bedford County is known for its challenging gravel routes. For instance, the Glenwood Furnace loop from Foot of the Mountain Café is a difficult 49.9 km route with over 748 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Piney Mountain loop from Union, which covers 50.1 km with over 1070 meters of climbing.

While many routes offer serious climbs, Bedford County also provides options suitable for those new to gravel biking. Falling Creek Park, near Roanoke, offers a diverse network of well-maintained trails, including the Lakeside Trail and Meadow Trail, which are more accessible. Events like "Gravel Camp Bedford" also highlight beginner-friendly routes and support for new riders.

Many gravel routes in Bedford County offer stunning views of natural landmarks. You can often see the iconic Peaks of Otter. Specific routes might take you past viewpoints like Onion Mountain Overlook or Thunder Ridge Overlook. Some trails also offer glimpses of Sharp Top Mountain or cross the James River via the Crossing the James River bridge.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Bedford County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Peaks of Otter Lodge – Onion Mountain Overlook loop from Arcadia, a 54.1 km circular route with significant elevation.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Bedford County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and occasional snow or ice, especially at higher elevations.

While many routes are challenging, areas like Falling Creek Park offer trails that can be more suitable for families, such as the Lakeside Trail or Meadow Trail, which feature rolling terrain and scenic views. These parks often have amenities like picnic areas.

Many trailheads and parks in Bedford County, such as Falling Creek Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. Routes often start from locations with available parking, like the Glenwood Furnace loop from Foot of the Mountain Café, which implies parking near the café.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Bedford County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and picturesque landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the remote, scenic forest roads that offer a true escape into nature.

Falling Creek Park, located near Roanoke, is a premier gravel biking destination with a diverse network of well-maintained trails for all levels. It features trails like the Lakeside Trail and Creekside Trail, along with amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas. More information can be found on the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge website.