6-Day Appalachian Rail Trails History Bike Tour

Please meet at the Hampton Inn & Suites Roanoke Airport at 8am.

We'll start the day with a 1.5-hour drive from Roanoke, VA, to the Whistle Stop Day Use Area in the Jefferson National Forest. Our 24-mile ride takes us through the scenic Potts Valley, past grazing bison, to the charming town of Paint Bank, VA, for lunch. After lunch, we’ll shuttle to Lexington, VA, where we will spend three nights at the historic Col Alto estate, now a beautifully restored Hampton Inn. 
Accommodation: The Hampton Inn & Suites-Historic Lexington
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 24 miles (38 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier

The second day of your adventure is filled with excitement. Begin with a 1 ½ hour shuttle to Pamplin, VA, to explore the High Bridge Trail, home to Virginia’s longest recreational bridge and one of the longest in the nation. Midday, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in the historic rail town of Farmville, known for its charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Farmville is also home to Longwood University, founded in 1839, and was the site of the first non-violent student demonstration in 1951—a pivotal event in the Brown v. Board of Education case.

As the day winds down, we’ll return to our comfortable inn in Lexington for a well-deserved overnight. 
Accommodation: The Hampton Inn & Suites-Historic Lexington
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Biking: 34 miles (54 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier

Day 3 is a delightful mix of exploration and culture, with the iconic Natural Bridge State Park as the highlight. Your adventure begins just a few miles from Lexington in Natural Bridge, VA, where we will hike to the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge and explore the magnificent caverns. Lunch will be at the delightful and quirky Pink Cadillac Diner.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to explore historic Lexington, VA, famous for its Civil War history and well-preserved architecture, or enjoy a scenic ride along the Chessie Trail, which follows the beautiful Maury River.

End your day with dinner of your choice before returning to the Hampton Inn for one last night. 
Accommodation: The Hampton Inn & Suites-Historic Lexington
Meals: Breakfast

Biking: 2-18 miles (3-29 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier to Intermediate

Today, you bid farewell to the charming landscapes of Virginia as you embark on a 3-hour shuttle to ride the Greenbrier River Trail in "wild, wonderful West Virginia." This 77-mile rail trail follows the stunning Greenbrier River, offering scenic views of its free-flowing waters. 

Along the way, we’ll visit two iconic landmarks: the 80-foot Falling Spring Falls and Humpback Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Virginia. 

After your ride, shuttle 1 hour to a comfortable inn atop Snowshoe Mountain, perched at an impressive elevation of 4,848'. Here, you can relax and take in the rugged beauty of West Virginia’s untamed terrain. The Greenbrier River Trail and your Snowshoe Mountain accommodations promise a memorable and rejuvenating experience as you continue your adventure. 
Accommodation: Corduroy Inn
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Biking: 21 miles (33 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier to Intermediate

On this exciting day, you'll continue your exploration of the Greenbrier River Trail by shuttling 30 minutes to Cass, WV, a unique and historic town nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Cass is famous for its heritage railroad and rich history. The adventure continues with a visit to Sharp Tunnel, an engineering marvel that's part of the Greenbrier River Trail. This tunnel takes you through the heart of a mountain and adds a touch of wonder to your journey. Your next destination is Marlinton, a picturesque town situated on the Greenbrier River. It's known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing and kayaking, and offers a delightful place to explore.  

After concluding your day's ride, you'll shuttle 50 minutes to Lewisburg, WV, a town renowned for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and delightful small-town atmosphere. You'll spend the night at the General Lewis Inn, a beautifully restored historic gem that captures the essence of the town's charm. With its classic Southern architecture, lush gardens, and well-appointed rooms, the inn offers a unique blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort. 

Lewisburg is a town where you can explore the picturesque streets, visit quaint shops, and enjoy a taste of local flavors at the town's restaurants. Known as "America's Coolest Small Town," Lewisburg embodies the warm and inviting spirit of West Virginia.

Accommodation: General Lewis Inn (on the April 27 departure, you stay at the Home2Suites)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Biking: 35 miles (56 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier

The conclusion of your tour begins with a 30-minute shuttle to Renick, WV, where you gear up to ride the final miles of the Greenbrier River Trail to Caldwell, WV. As you wind through the picturesque trail, soak in the last of the scenic beauty that the Greenbrier River has to offer. Before you bid farewell to this unforgettable adventure, you have a special treat in store. Enjoy an amazing lunch at the world-famous Greenbrier, where you can savor delicious cuisine and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days.

After lunch, embark on a 1.5-hour drive back to Roanoke, where your journey began. Take this time to reminisce about the breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and the incredible memories made during this Appalachian Rail Trail adventure.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Biking: 23 miles (37 kilometres)
Terrain: Easier