6 Top Mountain Biking Trails and Craft Breweries in Virginia's Blue Ridge
Mountain biking and craft beer form the heart of Roanoke Valley's vibrant culture in Virginia's Blue Ridge.
With more than 300 miles of world-class trails and a thriving brewery scene, combine your next adventure with exceptional bikes and brews.
Test your skills on these premier trail networks, then refresh at a nearby brewery to celebrate your Blue Ridge day. Explore six curated biking and beer pairings.
1. Biking: Mill Mountain Park
Experience thrilling urban mountain biking at Roanoke's Mill Mountain Park, home to the iconic Roanoke Star and panoramic downtown skyline views. The park features nearly 10 miles of trails. Climb from the base via Woodthrush Trail or Monument Trail. For descents, tackle the newest Understory Trail with its technical challenges and stunning vistas.
Learn more: Download a trail map of Mill Mountain Park.
Breweries: Big Lick Brewing Company, Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room, Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage
Perfectly located near Downtown Roanoke, these spots offer standout craft beers. Sample specialty microbrews at Big Lick Brewing Company. Discover newcomers like the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room on Market Street and Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage at The Bridges complex below Mill Mountain.
2. Biking: Waid Recreation Park
For beginner-friendly rides, Waid Park in Franklin County offers ADA-compliant trails. For more challenge, explore paths along the Pigg River, ideal for biking, tubing, and paddling. Enjoy over 10 miles of trails for hiking and biking.
Breweries: Hammer & Forge Brewing Company & Sunken City Brewing Company
En route back to Roanoke along US 220, stop at Hammer & Forge Brewing Company in Boones Mill. Try the bold Elder Mountain IPA or smooth Blue Lakes Blonde Ale. Heading to Smith Mountain Lake? Visit Sunken City Brewing Company at Westlake Towne Center for Dam Lager and cornhole.
3. Biking: Explore Park
Pack your bike for a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip and discover Explore Park at Milepost 115. Over 14 miles of trails meander through lush forests along the Roanoke River. Spot birds and wildlife on this Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail site.
Learn more: Explore the Adventure Plan for Explore Park.
Brewery: Twin Creeks Brewing Company
From Explore Park, access Vinton via Parkway exit at Milepost 112 to Route 24. Twin Creeks, Vinton's first microbrewery, rotates taps, hosts food trucks, and features live music for complete evenings of enjoyment.
4. Biking: Carvins Cove
Renowned as an East Coast mountain biking haven, Carvins Cove offers 60+ miles of multi-use trails from easy fire roads to expert double black diamonds like Rattlin’ Run. This 12,700-acre preserve includes a 600-acre reservoir for fishing and paddling, suiting all skill levels over multiple days.
Learn more: Download a trail map of Carvins Cove.
Brewery: Parkway Brewing Company
Relax on the scenic outdoor patio at Parkway Brewing Company, a local favorite since 2012. Post-ride favorites include Get Bent Mountain IPA, Bridge Builder Blonde, and Majestic Mullet Krispy Kolsch.
5. Biking: Jamison Mill Park
This new Franklin County park on Philpott Lake features over six miles of moderately challenging trails with lake views and interpretive stops on local history.
Brewery: Chaos Mountain Brewing Co.
A short drive away, this award-winning Franklin County brewery offers flagships like Cheeky Monkey Belgian Blonde and Mad Hopper IPA, plus seasonals such as Edge of the Sun Lime Lager or Legless Horseman Pumpkin Ale—ideal midway to Roanoke.
6. Biking: Falling Creek Park
Falling Creek Park delivers family-friendly biking for all levels: advanced singletrack, pumptrack, leisurely paths, and skills areas. Over 10 miles of trails complement picnic spots, disc golf, playground, and skate park.
Brewery: Beale’s
Satisfy your post-ride cravings at Beale’s in Bedford, specializing in German-style beers and pit-smoked BBQ like pulled pork, sausage, and brisket. Enjoy the pet-friendly outdoor patio.
