Discover Virginia's Premier Rail Trails for Unforgettable Fall Adventures
From rugged mountains to serene paved paths and sandy shores, Virginia delivers endless scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Embrace the vibrant fall foliage by exploring these top rail trails, beloved by hikers, bikers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Virginia stands out for its diverse landscapes, from the James River to trails leading toward the nation's capital. This fall, dive into these historic rail trails converted from old railroad beds, offering paved, accessible paths for walking, running, biking, and more.
Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail – Martinsville, VA
The Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail spans 4.5 miles through Martinsville and Henry County. Access points include Virginia Avenue, Liberty Street, Doyle Street, and Fisher Street. This paved path winds through scenic woodlands and Virginia history, tracing the former Danville and Western Railroad. Informational signs highlight its significance, while surrounding trees and wildlife provide peaceful escapes. Ideal for biking, hiking, walking, running, and rollerblading.
Dining:
- Pigs R Us / Checkered Pig – 4.5 stars – Liberty Street, Martinsville – 0.7 miles from trail
"Great BBQ, Great Portions" – selmonr
Renowned for exceptional Virginia barbecue, this spot draws trail visitors and locals with generous portions and outstanding flavors. - Hugo’s – 4.5 stars – East Church Street, Martinsville – 0.9 miles from trail
"The best bar and grill in town!!" – Betsy B.
A local favorite offering diverse menu options, including top-rated wings, perfect for groups refueling near the trail.
Lodging:
- Hampton Inn – 4.5 stars – Hampton Drive, Martinsville – 1.9 miles from trail
"Family Friendly Hotel" – Debra S.
Enjoy friendly service and comfortable rooms close to the trail, ideal for relaxation. - Comfort Inn Martinsville – 4 stars – Virginia Ave, Martinsville – 1.9 miles from trail
"Nice hotel and good service"
Provides essential comfort post-trail, with a welcoming breakfast to start your day.
James River Heritage Trail – Amherst, VA
Access the James River Heritage Trail from Percival’s Island Natural Area. This 9.5-mile paved path follows an abandoned railroad bed, blending natural beauty and history. It connects with Lynchburg’s Blackwater Creek Trail, crosses Percival’s Isle and the James River into Amherst County, offering stunning riverside views. Multiple access points make it one of Virginia's top urban trails for hiking and biking.
Dining:
- Isabella’s Italian Trattoria – 4.5 stars – Boonsboro Rd, Lynchburg – 5.3 miles from trail
"This place deserves its #1 spot" – Susan D.
Award-winning Italian cuisine and service, perfect for a rewarding meal after your trail adventure. - Mister Goodies – 5 stars – Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg – 14.2 miles from trail
"They deserve more than five stars!!!” – Luke S.
A local gem for indulgent sweets and affordable treats to satisfy post-trail cravings.
Lodging:
- Kirkley Hotel – 4 stars – Candlers Mountain Rd, Lynchburg – 5 miles from trail
"Reasonably priced hotel with luxury touches" – trvlwannab
Comfortable accommodations at a great value, with attentive staff for a restful stay. - Amherst Inn – 4 stars – Richmond Highway, Amherst – 18 miles from trail
"You will NOT be disappointed." – LH R
A quiet, convenient retreat praised by guests for its surprising comfort.
New River Trail State Park – Foster Falls, VA
Recognized as a National Recreation Trail, New River Trail State Park spans nearly 39 miles through Grayson, Carroll, Wythe, and Pulaski counties, paralleling the New River. Start at the Galax trailhead near the old red caboose and follow Chestnut Creek. Enjoy rugged yet accessible paths for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and boating. Highlights include tunnels, trestle bridges, and the historic Shot Tower.
Dining:
- Key Ingredients Restaurant – 4.5 stars – Fort Chiswell Mansion – 6.2 miles from trail
"A delicious surprise" – Jane B.
Historic setting with scenic views and exceptional dishes blending Virginia heritage. - High Plains Barbecue – 4.6 stars – East Lee Hwy – 7 miles from trail
"The food was awesome. The best BBQ I’ve ever had." – Scott ktm
Authentic slow-cooked barbecue with classic Southern sides.
Lodging:
- Comfort Inn – 4.5 stars – exit 80 off I81 – 2.6 miles from trail
"A really nice hotel" – vlayne
Family- and pet-friendly, conveniently located for exploring the park. - Hampton Inn – 4 stars – Fort Chiswell Road, Max Meadows – 6.3 miles from trail
"Nice Find" – Admin77
Highly recommended by visitors and locals for comfort near the trail.
Washington & Old Dominion Regional Park – Ashburn, VA
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail, rooted in Civil War-era railroads, connects Virginia's rural past to the DC area. This well-marked path is popular for biking and hiking, passing urban areas and branching trails through historic towns. Flexible access points make it versatile for all levels.
Dining:
- Blue Ridge Grill – 4.5 stars – Brambleton, Ashburn – 6.8 miles from park
"Good local food." – Evelyn Z.
Family-like service with diverse options like salads, ribs, and oysters. - Sweetwater Tavern – 4.5 stars – Waterview Plz, Sterling – 4.7 miles from park
"Excellent!" – hineconsult
Beloved for flavorful meals, a must-stop near the park.
Lodging:
- Holiday Inn Express – 4.5 stars – Elden St, Herndon – 5 miles from park
"Visiting DC great place to stay" – Phil A.
Trusted chain in a prime location with plenty to explore nearby. - Lansdowne Resort – 4 stars – Woodridge Parkway, Leesburg – 9.4 miles from park
"Beautiful resort" – Karastar
Luxurious relaxation amid Virginia's scenic beauty.
Virginia Capital Trail – Richmond to Williamsburg
The 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail links historic Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and modern Richmond. Multiple access points allow family segments or full challenges, including the refreshing Canal Walk along the James River—ideal for immersing in presidential history and Virginia's evolution.
Dining:
- The Boathouse – 3.5 stars – E Old Main St, Richmond – 1 mile from trail
"I LOVE the location of this restaurant." – Katie B.
Stunning James River views with fresh seafood and ample seating. - Cul’s Courthouse Grill – 4 stars – Courthouse Rd, Charles City – 0.5 miles from trail
"The hospitality we experienced here was second to none!" – Shonna S.
Conveniently across from trail parking, offering hearty meals and warm service.
Lodging:
- Omni Richmond – 4.3 stars – S 12th St – 1.2 miles from trail
"Great hotel, perfect location and beautiful views." – Brittany C.
Upscale comfort with James River vistas and exceptional service. - Chickahominy Riverfront Park – 5 stars – John Tyler Hwy – 1 mile from trail
"I use this place as a starting point for the Capital to Capital bike trail." – George J.
Camping and relaxation directly off the trail for outdoor enthusiasts.
Virginia Creeper Trail – Abingdon to Whitetop
The 34.3-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, named for historic steam engines, was championed by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in 1986. With 11 access points and mostly level terrain, it's family-friendly, passing ponds and groves for relaxed hikes or bike rides.
Dining:
- Creeper Trail Café – 3.5 stars – Chestnut Mountain Rd, Damascus – 0.1 miles from trail
"If you’re coming down…I suggest you stop here and get some food to relax and replenish." – Bryson M.
Prime location with affordable fare for quick refueling. - Mojo’s Trailside Coffeehouse – 4 stars – Douglas Drive, Damascus – 5 miles from trail
"This is a great little place to hit up, especially right before you hit the creeper trail!" – Alex K.
Coffee, smoothies, and local art for an energizing break.
Lodging:
- Laurel Creek RV Park – 5 stars – Orchard Hill Rd, Damascus – 0.1 miles from trail
"This park is exactly what I was looking for." – L.D.
Level sites with picnic tables for overnight trail-side stays.
Tobacco Heritage Trail – Five Southern Virginia Counties
Spanning nearly 174 miles across Brunswick, Charlotte, Halifax, Mecklenburg, and Lunenburg counties, the Tobacco Heritage Trail showcases forests, farms, and small towns via abandoned rail beds, roads, and bridges—immersing visitors in Virginia's rural history and stunning landscapes.
Dining:
- Bistro 1888 – 4 stars – Main St, South Boston – 0.4 miles from trail
"The seafood dishes were absolutely fresh, impeccably prepared, and quite delicious." – Chris M.
Elevated menu with fresh specials loved by locals and visitors. - Molasses Grill – 4.5 stars – S Main St, Halifax – 5.5 miles from trail
"Very impressive, definitely a fan, and will definitely come back." – Shuk C.
Fine dining with perfectly crafted dishes for post-trail indulgence.
Lodging:
- Best Western Plus – 4 stars – Thompson Rd, South Hill – 1.7 miles from trail
"Comfortable and convenient." – Audrey S.
Welcoming rooms and views for a comfortable stay.
About the Author: Kemry Johnakin is an English Major at Brigham Young University-Idaho, hopes to write the next great American novel, and is greatly unsettled by the lack of oxford commas used in government paperwork.
