Maps & Trail Guides

Virginia Creeper Trail

From a historical perspective, the Creeper Trail is a fascinating ride. The trail runs along a rail right-of-way that dates to the industrial expansion across the US in the 1880s and the accompanying iron ore speculation that ran even southward down to the western portion of Virginia.

The Creeper Trail is open to bikers, hikers and horseback riders. There are several places to park horse trailers while you enjoy a great ride. Other parking areas at the trailhead in Abingdon, Alvarado, Green Cove, Straight Branch, Whitetop and Creek Junction.

New River Trail State Park

A "Rails to Trails" project, New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad track. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties. The trail's gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike, and ride horseback.

The park's Foster Falls area offers guided horseback trips; canoe and bike rentals; boat launches; gift shops; and a horse arena. There are access points to the trails at Allisonia, Chestnut Yard, Cliffview, Dannelly Park, Draper, Dora Junction, Foster Falls, Fries, Galax, Gambetta, Hiwassee, and Ivanhoe.

The park includes:

• Two tunnels: 135 feet and 193 feet long
• Three major bridges: Hiwassee – 951 feet; Ivanhoe – 670 feet; Fries Junction – 1,089 feet
• Nearly 30 smaller bridges and trestles