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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.
Waid Park | Franklin County
Mountain Biking at Waid Park in Virginia's Blue Ridge
Waid Park in Franklin County is quickly establishing itself as one of the premier spots for mountain biking in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Franklin County Parks & Recreation has worked with local trail building organizations and companies to continue to expand its network of trails at Waid Park and offer unique riding options and experiences for mountain bikers of all ages and abilities.
The 500-acre park features over 15 miles of trails, featuring sections of technical singletrack, a jump line, river crossings, wooden ramps, rock gardens, and more.
You’ll encounter beautiful views of active farmland and the Pigg River Blueway, which flows through the park and is a great option for paddling & tubing. Portions of the Waid Park Trail System also follow the Old Carolina Road Trail.
Check out the following video from Bike Rumor, which features the riding at Waid Park at the 7:25 mark.
Recommended Reading - Bike Rumor - Where to Ride: Endless Mountain Biking in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >
In addition to the great network of trails, Waid Park also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, restroom facilities, and multiple parking areas.
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.
Waid Park - Suggested Routes
Waid Park - Mountain Biking Resources
- Waid Park Trail Map
- Franklin County Parks & Recreation - Waid Park
- Waid Park Trails - Trailforks
- Waid Park Trails - MTB Project
Waid Park - Location & Parking
Waid Recreation Park - 701 Waid Park Road, Rocky Mount, VA 24151
When you’re finished riding at Waid Park, take advantage of all the fun things to do in the nearby town of Rocky Mount. You can find great local restaurants & craft beverages, shopping, options for overnight lodging, and one of the best live music venues in Virginia - the Harvester Performance Center.
Waid Park is located approximately 35 minutes south of Roanoke.
Waid Park - Nearby Food & Drink
- Bowlings Place - a hole-in-the-wall stop just south of Waid Park that’s a favorite among locals for its popular hot dogs
- Rocky Mount Burger Company - casual musical-themed spot specializing in burgers (pictured above) and a wide selection of domestic & craft beer
- Twin Creeks Distillery - taste the history of Franklin County - “The Moonshine Capital of the World” at this family-owned distillery that has been producing craft spirits for generations
- The Whole Bean Coffeehouse - a great coffee shop featuring local ingredients & products in its menu of drinks, breakfast, and lunch items
- El Rodeo - tacos, queso, guac, margaritas, and all your Mexican food favorites
- Kupkakery - a local bakery that features delicious cupcakes, cheesecakes, and other sweet treats
- Ippy’s Restaurant - great atmosphere with regular live music and a menu that includes delicious seafood & steaks
- Buddy’s BBQ - award-winning NC-style BBQ with a Franklin County moonshine twist featuring house-made sauces
Mountain biking photos courtesy of Matt Ross - Franklin County Parks & Recreation
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