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When preparing for outdoor activities like mountain biking, it is important to consider the landscape and climate that can affect your trip. Here are the geography, climate, and other things you should know about the region of Virginia.
The majority of Virginia is covered in lush forests and mountains that provide many opportunities for outdoor activities. It is surrounded by 1.8 million acres of George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, allowing mountain bikers to have access to over 1,000 miles of trails, including forest roads. Most of the forest remains untouched, with areas that can only be accessible if you are on foot, bicycle, or horseback.
The Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia make up a huge portion of the landscape. It is home to eight mountain ranges with five peaks reaching more than 5,000 feet. Bike trails mainly pass through forests and mountains with gravel roads, so make sure to equip sturdy mud tires if you want to go mountain biking in Virginia.
Here are the total population and density of Virginia:
| Total Population | 8,683,619 (2022) |
| Population density (person per sq. km) | 219.3/sq mi (84.7/km2) |
Virginia’s climate varies according to elevation and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. During the summer, it can get very humid due to the abundant water along the East Coast. However, the air is much cooler, with less humidity in the mountains during all seasons.
You can go mountain biking in Virginia in any season, but the best time to go is during the summer and early fall when there is less rain, and the tracks are dry. If you prefer to experience the outdoors during the winter season, Virginia’s Blue Ridge also has plenty of winter biking trails that you can try.
| Month | Temperature |
|---|---|
| January | 8.6 °F |
| February | 12.3 °F |
| March | 25.2 °F |
| April | 38.6 °F |
| May | 51.6 °F |
| June | 61.6 °F |
| July | 67.6 °F |
| August | 65.5 °F |
| September | 58.1 °F |
| October | 43.7 °F |
| November | 30 °F |
| December | 14.7 °F |
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is an all-in-one mountain biking destination with countless trails and amenities for your convenience. You can go on an outdoor adventure with the whole family, as there are plenty of kid-friendly trails accessible for biking, hiking, and paddling. Helpful amenities such as bike rentals, repairs, lodgings, and guided trips are also offered within the region.
Aside from its amazing trails, Blue Ridge’s breathtaking views and iconic spots also make for perfect family photos. You can take a picture under the Roanoke Star, the Natural Bridge of Virginia, the Swinging Bridge over the James River, or from an overlooking view along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You can keep the young ones entertained at kid-friendly museums and attractions that showcase the history and culture of the region. Check out vintage steam locomotives at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, play with the whole family at the Roanoke Pinball Museum, and learn something new at the Science Museum of Western Virginia.
The Roanoke Star, also called the Mill Mountain Star, is one of Virginia’s most iconic landmarks. It is the largest artificial star in the world, towering as high as 88.5 feet. It is located at the top of Mill Mountain, where you can relax on the vast amount of green space while enjoying the breathtaking view of surrounding valleys. On your way to the mountain’s summit, you can also visit the Mill Mountain Zoo and Discovery Center.
The famous Blue Ridge Parkway also offers 469 miles of scenic travel across Virginia and North Carolina. It is mainly designed as a leisure road for motor vehicles, but mountain bikers are also welcome to traverse the parkway. However, make sure to proceed with caution since it does not have designated bike lanes.
No matter where you are in the region, you can constantly enjoy the picturesque view of lush forests and mountains in Virginia.
You can enjoy mountain biking in Virginia in all seasons, but it is best to hit the trail during the summer and early fall when there is less rain, and the tracks are dry.
The New River Trail is the longest biking trail in Virginia. It extends up to 57 miles.
Virginia is one of the best mountain biking destinations in the United States since it has a wide variety of trails for all kinds of mountain bikers. The forest and mountain-covered terrain provides many opportunities for challenging yet relaxing outdoor adventures.