Whitetop

The Whitetop to Virginia Creeper Trail and TransVirginia Bike Route loop, when fully open, promises a varied touring bicycle experience, blending the gentle grades of a rail-trail with the ruggedness of a bikepacking route. You'll traverse picturesque landscapes, from the lush mountain forests and rolling farmlands of the Virginia Creeper Trail, crossing its 47 iconic trestle bridges, to the remote mountain areas and challenging gravel roads of the TransVirginia sections. This moderate route covers 8.6 miles (13.9 km) with 765 feet (233 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 4 minutes, offering a unique contrast in terrain and scenery.

It's crucial to note that the Virginia Creeper Trail section from Damascus to Whitetop Station is currently closed due to hurricane damage, with an estimated reopening in late 2026 or early 2027. This means the full loop is not presently possible. For the open sections of the Virginia Creeper Trail, shuttle services are available from nearby towns, and the trail is generally easy and family-friendly. However, the TransVirginia portions demand good fitness and preparation for unpaved, challenging climbs, so always check current conditions.

The Virginia Creeper Trail is celebrated as one of the best "rails-to-trails" in the eastern United States, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and railroad history. In contrast, the TransVirginia Bike Route caters to self-supported bikepacking, designed for multi-day trips through remote mountain areas and aiming to be an iconic East Coast gravel bikepacking adventure. This loop, once fully restored, would bridge these two distinct cycling worlds, providing a comprehensive tour of Virginia's diverse cycling landscape.