Watch: The Confluence Trestle on the Virginia Creeper Trail

The Confluence Trestle (Trestle 12) near Alvarado Station on the Virginia Creeper Trail.

What is the Virginia Creeper Trail?

The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile multi-use rail-trail from Whitetop Station to Abingdon, Virginia, passing through Damascus. It is one of the most famous multi-use trails in the United States and was inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame in 2014.

Is the Virginia Creeper Trail open?

Yes! The lower portion of the trail is open now from Abingdon to Damascus (about a 17-mile ride).

• Closed temporarily: Whitetop Station to Damascus, badly damaged by Hurricane Helene in September 2024
• Scheduled to reopen: March 31, 2027

How far is the Virginia Creeper Trail from Curated Properties vacation rentals?

The Virginia Creeper Trail is about 1.3 miles from all four Curated Properties vacation rentals in Abingdon.

• Ride your bikes from the property, or drive and park across from the trail's terminus
• Parking: a gravel lot there, and another around the corner on A Street SE on King's Mountain Road

Can I ride an e-bike on the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Yes. The open Abingdon to Damascus section has allowed e-bikes since December 2024. Curated Properties guests can charge e-bikes in the garage.

• Whitetop Station to Damascus (currently closed): Forest Service land, and e-bike rules for this section may change when it reopens - check for updates in March 2027

Where can I rent bikes or get a shuttle for the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Shop in Abingdon is our favorite. There are also bike outfitters in Damascus that offer rentals and shuttles year-round, including service to the Abingdon trailhead.

How hard is the Abingdon to Damascus section of the Virginia Creeper Trail?

It is family-friendly and suitable for active beginners.

• Abingdon to Alvarado: downhill, with some light pedaling
• Alvarado to Damascus: less than a 1% grade

Where do I park and find restrooms on the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Free parking is available at the Abingdon trailhead, Watauga, Alvarado Station, and the Damascus Town Park.

• Restrooms: Abingdon trailhead, Alvarado Station, and Damascus Town Park
• Snacks and drinks: Alvarado Station Outpost, open daily 10 am to 4:30 pm, April through October

How far are Damascus and Whitetop Station on the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Distances along the trail from Abingdon:

• Damascus: about 17 miles
• Whitetop Station: 34 miles

Can I store my bikes at Curated Properties vacation rentals?

Yes. Curated Properties guests have secure bike storage and e-bike charging in the garage, using the same door code as their unit entry. Please tell the host you'll be bringing bikes.

Where should I stay for a Virginia Creeper Trail trip?

Curated Properties upscale vacation rentals are about 1.3 miles from the trail in Abingdon.

• Hilltop Oasis Abingdon: sleeps 8-10, best for groups; a boutique villa with a chef's kitchen, numerous amenities, and a private, in-town setting close to the major attractions
• The Oasis Abingdon: sleeps 2-6, upscale design with numerous amenities
• Cozy Oasis Abingdon: sleeps 2-4, perfect for a couple or small family
• The Nest Abingdon: sleeps 2-4, cozy and romantic with a spa bathroom and jetted soaking tub

What should I wear to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Bring layers, because parts of the trail are shaded and can be cool to cold even when it is sunny.

• Bring a day pack to store snacks and layers
• Pack a lighter coat for warmer months and a heavier coat for cooler months
• Bring a raincoat and/or gloves: both are lightweight to pack and make the ride much nicer when needed

What should I pack to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail?

Definitely pack water and snacks.

• Water: a liter or more; small water bottles are sold at Alvarado Station, but it is not open year-round
• Snacks: Abingdon to Alvarado is mostly downhill or flat, but Alvarado to Damascus has a gradual incline and you may need extra energy
• Fun extra: stop by the river, walk down for a break, and skip some rocks

What is the Virginia Creeper Trail like to ride?

The Virginia Creeper Trail was an active railroad from Abingdon through Damascus and into North Carolina, the main cargo and passenger line for a very rural area. It runs through valleys and alongside mountains.

• Abingdon to Alvarado: the outskirts of Abingdon, lightly forested areas, farmland, along the Middle Fork of the Holston River, and over Trestle 12, the famous Confluence Trestle
• Alvarado Station: a seasonal gift and snack store, bathrooms, parking, and a park across the road beside the South Fork of the Holston River with picnic tables, two shelters, and a grassy lawn
• Alvarado to Damascus: along the South Fork and then Laurel Creek, through forests and open fields with fenced livestock, with places to play in the river, arriving in Damascus, known as Trail Town USA

It is absolutely a beautiful ride, known as the Start to the Heart.