Outdoor Adventures Await: Trails, Biking, Running, and Paddling in Waynesboro, Virginia
Recreation thrives in Waynesboro, Virginia, an Appalachian Trail Community offering endless year-round opportunities to connect with nature. The city is actively expanding its Outdoor Recreation Network, providing seamless access to hundreds of miles of trails, routes, and waterways. Whether walking, biking, running, or paddling, adventure is just a step away in Waynesboro.
Walk the Greenway
Waynesboro's South River Greenway offers a scenic 1.2-mile path along the river, starting from the YMCA near Rife Park, passing through Constitution Park, and reaching the Port Republic Road Historic District.
Start your walk from the Waynesboro Public Library to Constitution Park and back, or opt for the 2-mile Waynesboro Walkabout loop, featuring the Greenway and Historic Downtown District. Expansions are underway to connect to North Park, Ridgeview Park, Basic Park, the future Sunset Park, and the Crozet Tunnel.
Bike the Valley
Experience Waynesboro and the Shenandoah Valley by bike, pedaling through historic neighborhoods, landmarks, rolling hills, and charming stops.
Bike the Valley features over 40 on-road and off-road routes for all levels. Use Waynesboro as your base for long tours or family rides. The rebuilt Main Street Bridge now includes 6-foot bike lanes and sidewalks, enhancing access to downtown, parks, farmers' markets, festivals, and historic areas. For repairs, visit Rockfish Gap Outfitters.
Run the Valley
Waynesboro Parks & Recreation hosts the acclaimed Run the Valley Race Series, drawing runners for events like the February Mad Anthony Mud Run and October Fall Foliage Race.
Access course maps online anytime. Favorites include the Summer Extravaganza 5K from Ridgeview Park and the Fall Foliage 5K starting at Constitution Park, passing Rife Park, and looping back via the South River Greenway.
Paddle the Waynesboro Water Trail
The South River flows through downtown, making Waynesboro a paddling haven. The Waynesboro Water Trail offers easy access for kayakers, anglers, and enthusiasts.
Launch from Ridgeview Park, Rife Park, Constitution Park, or Basic Park for a 4-mile scenic paddle (2-3 hours). Solo paddlers: Follow Parks & Recreation tips. Extend your trip north to Port Republic and the South Fork Shenandoah River toward Front Royal.
Rent kayaks at Rockfish Gap Outfitters (no shuttle), stocked with 7,000 sq ft of gear and local expertise.
UPCOMING EXPANSIONS
The Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel
Post-restoration, this 4,264-foot tunnel at Rockfish Gap will connect the Shenandoah Valley to the Virginia Piedmont via a universal access trail, linking to Shenandoah National Park, the Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, and U.S. Bicycle Route 76.
Sunset Park
At Waynesboro's highest point, Sunset Park will offer 360-degree Shenandoah Valley views, forested hiking and mountain biking trails, and a scenic overlook on former landfill. Virginia Tech’s design includes links to the Crozet Tunnel and pedestrian trails.
6 public parks. 4 miles of water trail. 2 National Parks. 1 dynamic Parks & Rec department. Hundreds of miles of trails nearby. The only missing piece in Waynesboro’s Outdoor Recreation Network is you. Plan your visit today!
