Virginia Creeper Trail

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SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA RAIL TRAIL

Virginia Creeper Trail

A multi-use trail linking Abingdon and Damascus, with a railroad past, creekside scenery and a route shaped by the Appalachian foothills.

Route
Abingdon through Damascus toward Whitetop Station

Full trail length
About 34 miles

Trail uses
Walking, biking and horseback riding

Current access
Abingdon–Damascus section open; check for updates

The Virginia Creeper Trail follows a former railroad corridor through the mountains and valleys of Southwest Virginia. Its full route runs about 34 miles from Abingdon, through Damascus, to Whitetop Station near the North Carolina line. The trail is known for its trestles, streams and changing scenery, but visitors can also choose a shorter outing rather than tackle the whole route.

Trail access has changed since Hurricane Helene damaged the upper section in September 2024. As of October 17, 2026, the Abingdon-to-Damascus section is open, while the Damascus-to-Whitetop section remains closed for rebuilding; Visit Damascus says the upper section is set to reopen March 31, 2027. Check official trail information before setting out, as conditions and access can change.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

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Why visit the Virginia Creeper Trail?

The trail combines an easy-to-follow rail corridor with a distinct sense of place: old railroad infrastructure, Appalachian scenery and two very different town gateways. The Abingdon-to-Damascus section passes through rolling farmland and along waterways; the full route continues into forested mountain country toward Whitetop Station. Its former railroad grade makes it possible to plan a modest walk or ride, or—when the whole route is open—a longer point-to-point trip.

Damascus sits roughly midway along the full route and is a natural place to pause, explore the trail’s railroad story and find local visitor services. Abingdon, at the western end, offers another starting point and a trail welcome center. For a current picture of which sections can be used, consult the official trail updates rather than relying on older descriptions of the full ride.

Start here

The Abingdon trailhead is the western gateway, at Mile 0, near the town’s historic downtown. Visit Abingdon lists the trail welcome center at 300 Green Spring Road. Damascus Town Park is a central access point in town, with trail information and connections to nearby services. Consult the current trail map for access points, facilities and mile markers before choosing a start and finish.

For a first visit, consider an out-and-back on the open Abingdon-to-Damascus section, or begin at one of its intermediate access points. Do not plan a ride or hike through Damascus toward Whitetop while the upper section is closed. When arranging a shuttle or bike rental, confirm the operator’s service area, schedule and current trail access directly; availability can vary.

What to see and do

Ride or walk the open lower section

Explore the Abingdon-to-Damascus corridor at your own pace. Plan a return trip or arrange transport in advance, and verify trail access before departure.

Follow the railroad corridor

Notice how the trail’s route, bridges and former rail locations reflect its origins as a railway through the region.

Pause at Alvarado

Alvarado is one of the trail’s named access points between Abingdon and Damascus. Check the current map for its location and available facilities.

Explore Damascus

Use Damascus as a base for the open lower trail section, and stop at the Damascus Trail Center for current trail information when it is open.

Plan for the upper trail’s return

The mountain section toward Whitetop Station remains closed as of October 17, 2026. Check official updates before planning a future visit.

History and significance

The route developed from a railroad built to connect Abingdon and Damascus and later extended into the mountains. The line carried passengers and supplies into the area and transported timber and other materials out. After the railroad’s final train ran in 1977, public agencies and local supporters worked to turn the corridor into a recreational trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail was dedicated as a National Recreation Trail in June 1987.

Today, the trail is a shared public resource involving the towns of Abingdon and Damascus, the U.S. Forest Service and trail supporters. The corridor’s history is still visible in its route and railway structures, while its present use connects visitors with the communities and landscapes of Southwest Virginia.

Planning a visit

• **Check the status first.** As of October 17, 2026, the section from Abingdon to Damascus is open; the upper section from Damascus to Whitetop is closed for reconstruction. Visit Damascus lists March 31, 2027, as the planned reopening date. Confirm the latest notices before travel.
• **Choose a manageable route.** The trail map shows mile markers, access points, restrooms, picnic shelters and other facilities. Use it to plan an out-and-back or a shorter section suited to your group.
• **Confirm rentals and shuttles.** Local outfitters may offer equipment rental and transportation, but service depends on current trail access and operator availability. Contact providers directly before making plans.
• **Respect closures and private property.** The trail passes through a mix of public and privately owned land. Stay on the route, follow posted signs and barriers, and do not enter closed work areas.
• **Check services before relying on them.** Restrooms, visitor centers and seasonal stops may have limited or changing hours; confirm current details with the relevant town or trail organization.

Nearby attractions

Abingdon, Virginia
The trail’s western gateway, with a trailhead near the town’s historic downtown.

Southwest Virginia
Explore the wider mountain region surrounding the trail and its gateway towns.

References

External links

• Virginia Creeper Trail updates — Visit Damascus
• Trail overview and maps — Virginia Creeper Trail Conservancy
• Virginia Creeper Trail in Abingdon — Visit Abingdon Virginia