Powhite Park Trail Review: Richmond, VA

Located in the scenic Richmond, Virginia, the Powhite Park offers an exhilarating ride for mountain biking enthusiasts. It boasts a distinctive terrain filled with technical challenges, making it a sought-after spot for cyclists looking for that extra thrill.

Overview

• Distance: 8 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Richmond, Virginia

Trail Description

The trail at Powhite Park is graded as moderate to difficult. The sinuous nature of the fast singletrack means riders should expect a mixture of terrains, from twisty, hilly paths to technical log sections. There’s a notably thrilling rocklog drop off that seamlessly ends into a long air log crossover. However, with the added complexity come the rewards – the trail offers great speed and opportunities for adrenaline-pumping climbs.

Navigating the Trail

• Getting there:
  • Take the 95 south to 195 WestSouth to Powhite Parkway (Route 76) south towards Chesterfield.
  • Exit at Jahnke Rd. East after crossing Chippenham Parkway.
  • Head east on Jahnke Rd., cross back under Chippenham Parkway. The Powhite Park entrance will be on the left.
  • Drive an additional 50 yards right to the Chippenham Medical Center and U-turn.
  • The park will be on the right. Park near the circle drive; the trailhead begins in the woods at the far end.
• Trail Tips:
  • On entering, riders are faced with a daunting climb out. This section might be one of the most challenging climbs in RVA.
  • Navigate through the bark section for a downhill experience. While it's quite steep, it's equally entertaining.
  • Upon reaching a wooden bridge, cyclists have three options:
    1. Left: A path with roots, not extremely hard.
    2. Right: A slightly consistent climb.
    3. Straight: A challenging ascent. For those less fond of climbs, the left or right path might be a better choice.

Despite its exciting terrains, some riders have noted that the trail isn’t marked optimally. While the highway noise gives some sense of location, it’s recommended to bring glasses and water. If local trails like the north bank and buttermilk are wet, Powhite Park serves as a great alternative.

Trail Condition and Maintenance

Powhite Park, although thrilling, has faced challenges in terms of maintenance. Recent storms have led to blockages from fallen tree trunks, making some sections inaccessible. Fortunately, some dedicated riders have taken it upon themselves to clear out obstructions. The dry creek bed "half pipe" remains a favorite section for many and has remained untouched by the storm damages.

Final Thoughts

While the park's size might be on the smaller side, it makes up for it with a diverse array of sections that provide endless fun. The creek bed offers numerous features, making it a must-ride spot. However, due to occasional neglect, some trails might seem unused, making it imperative for riders to remain vigilant.For those in or around Richmond, Powhite Park promises an adventurous outing, worth every pedal stroke. Happy Riding!