The best road cycling routes in Giles County

Giles County, often called "Virginia's Mountain Playground," offers a diverse road cycling landscape. You'll encounter scenic river valleys, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain, with many routes providing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Options range from challenging climbs and switchbacks to more gentle slopes along creeks and rivers like the New River.

Yes, Giles County has several options for easier rides. The region offers about 10 easy routes. For a relatively flat and fast experience, consider sections of the Twin Depots Scenic Trail (Route 61) or the Mary Ingles Trail (MIT), an off-road paved path along the New River. An example of an easy route is the Hethwood Pond loop from Virginia Tech.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Giles County offers about 16 difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Elgood Loop, starting from Narrows, is known for its long, steep climbs and switchbacks towards Glen Lyn and the West Virginia line. Another challenging option is the Duck Pond – Duck Pond loop from Blacksburg, which features substantial elevation changes.

While many road routes are on public roads, the Mary Ingles Trail (MIT) provides a car-free, paved experience along the New River for about 7 miles, making it suitable for families. Additionally, the Twin Depots Scenic Trail (Route 61) offers flatter sections that can be more accessible for family rides.

Road cycling in Giles County offers views of the New River, one of the world's oldest rivers, and the expansive Jefferson National Forest. You might also encounter picturesque areas like Wolf Creek and Mill Creek. For a scenic stop, Dismal Falls near Pearisburg is accessible via a short trail, and Mountain Lake near Newport provides a beautiful natural setting.

Giles County offers beautiful cycling experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while fall transforms the roadways and mountains into vibrant displays of color, making it an enticing time to ride. Summer provides warm weather, and winter can offer crisp, clear rides, though conditions may vary.

Yes, many of the routes in Giles County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Hethwood Pond – Duck Pond loop from Virginia Tech is a popular moderate circular route. Another option is the Sinking Creek loop from Sinking Creek, which is a more challenging circular ride.

The charming towns within Giles County, such as Pembroke, Pearisburg, Narrows, Rich Creek, and Glen Lyn, often serve as excellent starting points for rides. These towns typically offer public parks and amenities where you can find parking, restrooms, and access to local shops before or after your ride.

The road cycling routes in Giles County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from scenic river valleys to challenging mountain climbs, and the low-traffic roads that allow for an immersive experience in "Virginia's Mountain Playground."

Yes, Route 42, accessible from the Village of Newport, is designated as a scenic byway. It offers a picturesque 30-mile ride towards New Castle and back, providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Many routes in Giles County are known for their relatively low traffic, especially those that traverse scenic valleys and rural areas. The New River Valley Bicycle Association highlights routes with "often low traffic." The Mary Ingles Trail (MIT) is an excellent car-free option, and sections of the Twin Depots Scenic Trail (Route 61) also offer a quieter experience.

Giles County hosts several cycling events throughout the year. Notable events include "Spring Up Wolf Creek," a 42-mile flat ride suitable for all levels, and the challenging "Mountains of Misery" century and double century rides. The Wilderness Road Ride Gran Fondo also offers various distances on paved roads for all cycling abilities.