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A helpful set of guidelines to ensure you ride responsibly and minimize your impact on the local trails and natural environment.
Arcadia - Jefferson National Forest | Botetourt County
Mountain Biking in Arcadia & the Glenwood Horse Trail in the Jefferson National Forest
The Glenwood Horse Trail in the Jefferson National Forest is the star of this Botetourt County trail system, with a number of choices for loops or a shuttle option if you are up for the 60+ miles of advanced singletrack with fire road connectors.
You will be treated to spectacular scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains as the trail system in Arcadia follows the edges of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail. Take care when near the Appalachian Trail as bikes are not allowed.
We guarantee you will travel miles and miles without seeing another person in this breathtaking backcountry environment. It is important to wear blaze orange during hunting seasons as hunting is permitted on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Primitive dispersed camping is available in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, creating the possibility of mountain bike touring, camping, and/or bikepacking. However, due to the lack of facilities in this area, you will need a good water filtration system. The U.S. Forest Service operates the North Creek Campground near Arcadia, where there are 15 tent pads, vault toilets, and potable water.
We also recommend the National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map #789 as a guide as cell service will be spotty at best.
Before You Ride: Familiarize yourself with the Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics for Mountain Biking - a set of guidelines to help you enjoy the trails responsibly and minimize your impact on the natural environment.
Arcadia & Jefferson National Forest - Suggested Routes
- Arcadia Loop - Pine Ridge/Cove/Little Cove (MTB Project)
- Arcadia Showcase (Ride With GPS)
- Mineshaft Trail via Bobblets Gap (MTB Project)
- Blue Ridge Parkway Epic - Glenwood, Mineshaft, Spec Mines, Dody (MTB Project)
Arcadia & Jefferson National Forest - Mountain Biking Resources
- U.S. Forest Service - George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
- Dispersed Camping in the Jefferson National Forest
- National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map #789
Parking Areas
Day Creek Horsetrail Lot - Blue Ridge, VA 24064
Bobblets Gap Overlook - Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 93.1
Pico Road - Buchanan, VA 24066
When you’re not riding, check out the nearby Town of Buchanan in Botetourt County. It’s a charming small town located on the bank of the beautiful James River, and you can enjoy some time on the water by booking a paddling or tubing trip with Twin River Outfitters, which is located in Buchanan. You can get a great view of the river with a walk across the historic Buchanan Swinging Bridge.
Buchanan also features a variety of great local shops, restaurants, and various options for an overnight stay.
Arcadia & Jefferson National Forest - Nearby Food & Drink
- Foot of the Mountain Cafe (pictured above) - a local spot right off Interstate 81 at Exit 168; known for featuring some of the most delicious burgers in Virginia’s Blue Ridge
- Buchanan Fountain & Grille - historic diner and soda fountain featuring old-fashioned ice cream, shakes, pies, burgers, and sandwiches
- The Witt Stop - delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and an impressive assortment of specialty desserts, including cheesecakes, muffins, cakes & pies
- 1772 Rooftop on Main - fantastic rooftop bar in Historic Downtown Fincastle, specializing in craft cocktails and seasonal small plates
- Town Center Tap House - family-friendly restaurant and craft beer sports bar located at Daleville Town Center; featuring over 40 beers on tap
- Tizzone Wood-Fired Kitchen & Wine Bar - local restaurant specializing in wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, authentic Italian fare and a large selection of great wine
- Three Li’l Pigs Barbeque - bright, casual BBQ joint with signature sauces and a great outdoor patio, offering sandwiches, burgers, and BBQ platters
Arcadia & Jefferson National Forest - Local Outdoor Shop
- Outdoor Trails - a great selection of gear & clothing, catering both to the expert outdoors person and the novice enthusiast
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