Top 3 Road Biking Destinations Near Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina

Photo by Jeff Miller on Unsplash

Uncover the Best Road Biking Spots Near Blue Ridge Parkway

Welcome back to our ongoing series of showcasing the best road biking and cycling destinations across the United States. In this edition, we are thrilled to bring you an exciting exploration of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the surrounding areas. With its stunning natural beauty, challenging terrain, and incredible vistas, the Blue Ridge Parkway is an absolute must-visit for any avid cyclist. From the high peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the rolling hills of Virginia and North Carolina, this region is an unforgettable experience that every road cyclist should add to their bucket list. So, get ready to pedal through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country – it's time to hit the road!

Blue Ridge Parkway: Known as "America's Favorite Drive," this scenic road stretches 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views for road bikers.

Mount Mitchell: Located in North Carolina, this is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, and the climb to the top is a favorite of many road bikers in the area.

The Virginia Creeper Trail: A converted railway line that stretches for 34 miles, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a popular spot for road biking.

Linville Gorge: A scenic and challenging ride that takes you through the Pisgah National Forest and features steep climbs, fast descents, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Photo by Ashley Knedler on Unsplash

Looking for an epic road biking adventure in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains? Look no further than the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic byway stretches for 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, with breathtaking views and challenging climbs at every turn.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination for road bikers of all skill levels, with sections ranging from easy cruising to challenging mountain passes. One of the most famous sections is the climb up to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell, which tops out at an elevation of 6,684 feet.

But the Blue Ridge Parkway has much more to offer than just a single climb. The route follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Cyclists can enjoy peaceful stretches of road lined with wildflowers and mountain laurel, or test their skills on winding descents and steep climbs.

One popular route for road bikers on the Blue Ridge Parkway is the stretch between mileposts 317 and 338, known as the "Roanoke Mountain Loop." This 21-mile loop features challenging climbs, scenic overlooks, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the natural beauty of the region.

Another popular section is the 45-mile stretch from Asheville, North Carolina to Mount Mitchell State Park, which includes the climb up to the peak as well as scenic stops like the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center and the Folk Art Center.

No matter what section of the Blue Ridge Parkway you choose, you'll be treated to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. So gear up, hop on your bike, and get ready for an unforgettable road biking experience on the Blue Ridge Parkway. And don't forget to wear a pair of Godspeed Socks for maximum comfort and peak performance on every climb and descent.

Mount Mitchell

Photo by Tom Sid on Unsplash

If you're looking for an epic road biking adventure, Mount Mitchell in North Carolina should be on your list. At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, and the road leading to the summit is one of the most challenging and rewarding rides in the area.

The Mount Mitchell Scenic Byway offers a 22-mile climb with an average grade of 4.5% and plenty of switchbacks, making it a favorite of experienced riders looking for a challenging ascent. The road is well-maintained, with smooth pavement and breathtaking views around every turn.

As you climb, you'll pass through dense forests, cross streams, and enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that will take your breath away. There are plenty of places to stop along the way to take in the scenery and catch your breath, including several overlooks with panoramic views.

At the summit, you'll find a visitor center and observation deck where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The descent is just as exhilarating as the climb, with long, sweeping curves and thrilling descents.

Virginia Creeper Trail

If you're a fan of road biking and looking for an exciting adventure, the Virginia Creeper Trail is an absolute must-visit. This iconic trail spans 34 miles of former railroad tracks that run from Abingdon, VA to Whitetop, VA, offering stunning scenery and a variety of difficulty levels for cyclists of all experience levels.

Starting in Abingdon, the trail winds through picturesque farmland and crosses a few small streams, making for a serene and peaceful start to the ride. As you continue on, the trail gradually descends into the Appalachian Mountains, providing awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The trail is well-maintained and well-marked, with plenty of spots for rest and relaxation along the way. And if you need a break from cycling, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the area's natural beauty.

One of the highlights of the Virginia Creeper Trail is the stunning 1,500-foot bridge that spans the South Holston River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. And as you reach the end of the trail, you'll find yourself in the charming town of Damascus, where you can enjoy a delicious meal or take a stroll through the local shops.

Overall, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a true gem for road bikers, offering a mix of challenge and relaxation, along with stunning scenery that will take your breath away. And as you tackle this beautiful trail, don't forget to slip on a pair of Godspeed Socks for the ultimate in comfort and performance.

Linville Gorge

Photo by Dillon Groves on Unsplash

Unfortunately, road biking is not permitted in Linville Gorge due to its rugged terrain and designated wilderness status. However, there are some great mountain biking trails available in the area for those looking to explore the stunning scenery of the Linville Gorge Wilderness. Visitors can enjoy a variety of trail difficulties and lengths, with options ranging from the easy Pine Gap Trail to the more challenging Linville Gorge Trail. Riders can expect to encounter steep climbs, technical descents, and plenty of rocky terrain along the way. The trails in Linville Gorge offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and forests, making it a must-visit destination for any avid mountain biker. Just be sure to follow all park regulations and leave no trace.

Thank you for taking the time to explore these incredible cycling destinations with us. As a token of appreciation, we'd like to invite you to check out our product line at Godspeed Socks. Our cycling socks are designed with your comfort and performance in mind, and we're confident that you'll love them as much as we do. With a variety of stylish designs to choose from, our socks will help you ride in style and comfort. Thank you again for reading, and we hope to see you on the road soon!