TransVirginia Bike Route - Fries Loop

The New River Trail State Park, which forms a significant part of this loop, begins in downtown Fries. You can find parking facilities in Fries, Virginia, to start your ride. As this is a loop, you'll return to your starting point.

The terrain varies significantly. Sections along the Turkey Fork and the New River Trail State Park are primarily crushed stone, following a former railway bed, which is generally wide, level, and non-technical. However, other portions of the TransVirginia Bike Route incorporate more challenging surfaces, including gravel, dirt roads, and double track, with approximately 39% paved sections. While the tour is listed for 'racebike', be prepared for varied unpaved conditions.

Given the 'difficult' rating and the inclusion of challenging, unpaved sections of the broader TransVirginia Bike Route, this specific loop is generally not recommended for beginners. While parts of it, particularly the New River Trail, are easy and level, the overall route involves significant elevation changes and varied surfaces that require a good level of fitness and bike handling skills.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to ride this route. During these seasons, you'll experience pleasant temperatures, vibrant foliage, and blooming wildflowers along the New River. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may bring cold temperatures and potential snow or ice, making some unpaved sections less accessible.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the New River Trail State Park sections of this route, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

While there isn't a specific permit required for the 'TransVirginia Bike Route - Fries Loop' itself, parts of the route may pass through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Generally, there are no entrance fees for accessing trails within the National Recreation Area, but it's always wise to check the official Mount Rogers NRA website for any specific regulations or fee requirements that might apply to certain facilities or activities along your planned route.

Riders will enjoy beautiful natural scenery, especially along the New River, with opportunities to observe animal and bird life. Highlights include passing through the town of Fries, riding along the Turkey Fork trail, and potentially seeing the Spring Valley Christmas Tree Farm. The route also features historic trestle bridges and riverside benches, offering picturesque spots to rest and take in the views.

Yes, this route extensively uses sections of the official TransVirginia Bike Route (46% of the route) and the New River Trail (1% of the route). It also briefly touches upon other trails such as the East Fork Trail, Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, Tate, Middle Street, Mike's Gap Trail, Yellow Branch Trail, and Stroupe Hollow Road.

While the New River Trail State Park, accessible from Fries, typically has facilities, the more remote sections of the TransVirginia Bike Route may have limited or no access to restrooms, potable water, or food. It's highly recommended to carry sufficient water, snacks, and any necessary supplies for the entire duration of your ride, especially given the route's length and difficulty.

Given the mix of crushed stone, gravel, dirt roads, and paved sections, a gravel bike or a mountain bike would be ideal for this route. While the tour is listed for 'racebike', a traditional road bike with very narrow tires might struggle on the unpaved and potentially rougher sections. Wider, more durable tires are highly recommended for comfort and traction.

The estimated duration for completing this loop is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes of active riding time. However, this is an estimate and can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the type of bike you're riding, the number of stops you make for breaks or sightseeing, and trail conditions. Plan for a full half-day or more to comfortably enjoy the ride.