Whether you prefer the challenge of a 100 mile bike ride or a leisurely 10 mile bike tour with stops, the Charlottesville VA area has many choices for you! Charlottesville has been designated a “Bicycle Friendly Community” by the League of American Bicyclists. There are many scenic routes for both mountain and road biking. So bring your bike with you for your stay at Foxfield Inn; biking is fun in almost every season!
There are more than 30 well detailed paved road routes developed by the Charlottesville Bicycle Club. Length of the rides averages about 30 miles, with turn cues. There are an equal number of mountain biking routes developed by the Charlottesville Mountain Biking Club; these include some shorter trails more suitable for beginners.
When planning your trip, take note of the following:
- The area to the east of Charlottesville is more open and rolling, while the area to the west (between the city and the mountains) is more hilly–and the hills are moderately steep.
- The Shenandoah Valley (to the west of the mountains) tends to be scenic open farmland.
- Routes traveling up and down the valley are more flat, while those going across the valley have rolling hills.
With so much to choose from, we are highlighting several iconic routes that you should consider:
#1 – Charlottesville Challenge
This is a 45 mile intermediate ride through the beautiful Albemarle County countryside. The trip follows National Bike Route 76. It turns off and explores some of the more rural areas south of Charlottesville before touring through the UVA campus. The start is at the shopping area on Ivy Rd, near the Ivy Rd/Alderman Rd intersection. Park for free in the parking lot.
#2 – Culpeper Cruising
If you choose to take a ride to Culpeper, about an hour from the Inn, there are a number of choices for rides. You will see a range of small towns, Civil War battlefields, farms, rivers and some great views. The routes vary from 18 miles to 60 miles in length.
#3 – Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive
Bicycling along the Blue Ridge Parkway is generally on every cyclist’s bucket list. Rockfish Gap, which is 20 miles west of Charlottesville, is the intersection of Milepost 0 of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the southern end of Skyline Drive.
Both roads are scenic masterpieces and can be both hilly and heavily traveled. For a starting point, take either US 20 or I-64 to the top of the mountain and park in one of the several spots that are available. Be aware that you will need to buy a pass to enter Shenandoah National Forest. The routes are hilly and expect a lot of car traffic.
#4 – Mountain Biking in Shenandoah Park
There are several mountain biking trails in and around Shenandoah National Park; all are appropriate for experienced riders. The easiest access that is close to the Inn is in Crozet, about 15 minutes away.
Biking Tips
Wherever you plan on biking, please always plan your trip in advance and take heed of the following safety notes:
- ALWAYS wear a helmet.
- Because of the level of traffic, avoid US 29, US 33, US 250 and Rt 151.
- There are very few roads with paved shoulders; when there are you are NOT required to ride on them.
- Consider using a mirror either on your helmet or handlebars to allow you to see cars and riders behind you.
Feel free to ask us if you have any questions, we would love to steer you in the right direction. After a day on the trails, your comfortable room will be waiting for you at Foxfield Inn!
