The best traffic-free bike rides in Rockbridge County
4.3
(3)
244
riders
16
rides
Road cycling in Rockbridge County offers routes through the Shenandoah Valley, flanked by the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. The region features a landscape of rolling hills, river valleys, and forested areas. Cyclists can navigate smooth byways and roads that often follow the Maury and James Rivers, providing varied terrain for different skill levels. The area is characterized by its natural features, including Goshen Pass and the distinctive silhouette of House Mountain.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Rockbridge…
Last updated: August 17, 2026
37
riders
114km
06:18
2,320m
2,320m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
80.2km
03:43
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
7
riders
50.8km
02:24
540m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
74.6km
04:05
900m
910m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
73.2km
03:23
840m
840m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Rockbridge County
Tips from the Community
Woods Creek Park is a lovely local park on the western side of Lexington, Virginia. There is a playground, open green spaces, and a picnic pavilion. The Woods Creek Trail also runs through and ends at this park, making it a great place to begin or end your hike along it.
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The Woods Creek Trail is a gravel multi-use trail that links the historic Jordan's Point with Woods Creek Park through the Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute's (VMI) campuses. This is a great urban trail on the northwestern side of Lexington.
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The Jordan's Point Historic District is located in Jordan's Point Park in Lexington, Virginia. Developed around 1800 by John Jordan and John Moorhead, the site originally housed a sawmill. In 1806, they dammed the Maury River and constructed a cotton mill in 1808. Although only foundations and the millrace remain from these early industrial activities, notable surviving structures include the miller's house, built around 1815, which is now a local museum, and a chapel built in 1874. The district's historical significance was recognized in 2016 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Ravens Roost Overlook is at Milepost 10.7 on the Blue Ridge Parkway and is one of the most popular overlooks in this part of Virginia. From an elevation of 3,200 feet, you can look down into the old farming valley and along mountain ridges running perpendicular to the parkway.
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Located at Milepost 1.5 and at an elevation of 2,148 feet on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rockfish Valley Overlook is a more popular stop than the nearby Afton Overlook. The Rockfish Valley Overlook is a little more than 200 feet higher in elevation and offers a wide open view of Rockfish Valley with a mountainous backdrop.
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Located just 0.2 miles into the parkway, Afton Overlook is the first official overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Like many of the overlooks of the parkway, this view is of the nearby town. As you climb and descend through the mountains, you get many more views of the network of valleys, rivers, and towns that help make up this unique region of the country. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469 mile paved highway through the states of Virginia and North Carolina. The road is extremely popular for cyclists, cars, and motorcycles, so you should always exercise caution biking on the roadways. Being maintained by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its overlooks and access to natural and wilderness areas. Only paved roads (no paths or trails) are open to bikes within the boundaries of the parkway, and you can expect to see other visitors at most overlooks, trailheads, and campgrounds. Biking any section of the Blue Ridge Parkway offers an immersion into Southern Appalachia. Taking on the entire road in a multi-day push is an extreme undertaking for serious cyclists; that being said, any section of the parkway can be doable for cyclists with some road biking experience and the right gear.
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It's worth parking your bike at the visitor center to hike the short walk to the top of Humpback Rocks. The views over the parkway are spectacular. The visitor center has exhibitions on historic mountain farming life that are also worth checking out.
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Leave your bike at the start of the trail and hike 1.2 miles (1.9 km) to the magnificent White Rock Falls. The views are just as impressive as the falls.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Rockbridge County?
Rockbridge County offers 14 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are primarily moderate to difficult, providing a good challenge for experienced cyclists.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Rockbridge County?
The most enjoyable seasons for no-traffic road cycling in Rockbridge County are typically spring and fall. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the scenery of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains is particularly stunning with blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes in Rockbridge County?
While many of the listed routes are moderate to difficult, the region does offer options like the Chessie Nature Trail, a relatively flat, seven-mile rail-trail connecting Lexington and Buena Vista, which is ideal for leisurely rides and families. For a dedicated road cycling experience, consider routes with lower elevation gains or shorter distances, though these may still involve some rolling hills.
What kind of scenic viewpoints can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Rockbridge County's routes offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints, especially along the Blue Ridge Mountains and through areas like Goshen Pass. You can expect vistas of the Shenandoah Valley, rolling farmlands, and the winding Maury and James Rivers. Highlights such as Thunder Ridge Overlook provide expansive views.
Are there any waterfalls or natural monuments accessible from these cycling routes?
Yes, Rockbridge County is home to several impressive natural features. You might encounter Lace Falls, a picturesque 30-foot waterfall within Natural Bridge State Park, or Wigwam Falls. The iconic Natural Bridge of Virginia, a 215-foot-high natural limestone arch, is also a significant landmark in the area.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic road cycling in Rockbridge County?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience in Rockbridge County, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the peacefulness of the low-traffic roads, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs through the mountains.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling in the area?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Rockbridge County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Laurel Hill loop from Bunkin Hill offers a substantial ride of over 80 km, while the Woods Creek Park loop from Lexington is a popular 50 km option.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking availability varies by route. Many routes start from towns like Lexington or Buena Vista, where public parking is often available. For routes that venture into more rural areas or state parks, designated parking lots are usually provided. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along these routes?
Rockbridge County features quaint downtowns like Lexington, which offer opportunities for breaks at farm-to-table bistros and locally owned shops. While some routes might pass through smaller communities with limited services, planning your stops in towns or carrying sufficient provisions is recommended, especially on longer, more remote rides.
What is the typical difficulty level for no-traffic road cycling routes in Rockbridge County?
Most of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Rockbridge County are rated as moderate to difficult. This is due to the region's mountainous terrain, which often includes significant elevation gains and descents. Routes like the Woods Creek Park – Woods Creek Trail loop from Lexington, for instance, are classified as difficult, featuring over 900 meters of elevation gain.
Can I find shorter, moderate no-traffic road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are moderate options available. The Poplar Hill loop from Buena Vista is a moderate 35 km route, offering a good balance of distance and elevation without being overly strenuous. The region also has shorter, flatter sections like River Road along the Maury River, suitable for easier rides.
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