The Virginia Creeper Trail is roughly 34 miles long from White Top Mountain to Abingdon. The first 17 miles from White Top to Damascus is all downhill. It is perfect for any skill level. The trail is not winding or difficult and everyone can have fun doing it. The second half has a relatively small but unremitting incline, so the return to Abingdon can be tiring pedaling all the way.

This past weekend a group of friends went to Abingdon to ride the Creeper and visit the Highlands Craft/Arts/Music Festival.

Who we were: We ranged in age from 5-65.
Where we stayed: Because our group was large and included a number of kids we opted for the Hampton Inn. It was an excellent choice. It is clean and has a pool, free internet, included breakfast in the rate and is convenient to town. The rooms are adequately sized and have microwaves, fridges, and coffee makers. For the kids, flat screen tv's and games.

Where we dined:
We had lunch at Ellis' Drug Store which had been recommended by hotel staff. It was not very good although the service was cheerful and pleasant. Review posted on TA.
We had a group dinner at Wild Flour. I would highly recommend this choice. The food was excellent and we all enjoyed our meals. Review posted on TA.

It was a lovely way to spend a weekend with friends. GO!

Is Wild Flour in Abingdon? I haven't heard of it before.

Thanks for the trip report, cmcfong. I would love to try the trail someday.

Great report, cmcfong. I wish that trail weren't so far away. . . I'd love to do something like that.

Instead we went down to Mt. St. Helens last weekend and did a bit of biking there. What an amazing place!

But your choice sounds way better for a group of friends of mixed ages. What fun that must have been.

cmcfong, we've been planning a trip to ride the Creeper trail off and on all summer. We were supposed to go two weeks ago, but it was raining here with a forecast for thundershowers all day in Abingdon/Damascus, so we stayed home. Anyway, we're still going to try to go over on a weekend soon, so I thought I'd ask if you used a shuttle company and if so, which one? Also, did you ride the entire trail or just half? There are a lot of websites about the trail, but every time I look at them, I have more questions than answers!

Betsy, we used the VA Creeper Bike Shop in Abingdon for the shuttle. There is a parking lot right at the trail head. Take your bike off and ride about a half block to your left and there is the shop. Very inexpensive and easy. It is just across the street from the Trail Cafe if you want breakfast first. I did the whole trail....celebrating my SIXTY SECOND birthday and I loved it!

Rae, the Wild Flour is very good. It is on highway 11 in Abingdon and right next door to the Stop for ice cream. Good stuff.

Enzian, I will be in touch about the Mt. St. Helens' ride. I think my hiker group is seriously considering your neck of the woods for our 2010 trip. We are going to Red Lodge, MT in four weeks so look for my report. And, remember you are always a welcome guest in Pinnacle if you want to come east and try this trail!

Birdie, do it...you will love it! Beautiful part of the state.

If you're just doing the White Top to Damascus portion of the Creeper Trail, we use The Bike Station in Damascus. http://www.thebike-station.com/ It's $13 for transport only, or $24 with bike rental.