Where to Ride in Lexington, Virginia

Ready to go for a ride?

Check out some of our favorite bicycle routes in Lexington, VA and Rockbridge Country.

The Chessie Nature Trail

 

Best for: Gravel bikes

Surface: Gravel / packed dirt

Distance: ~7 miles one way

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

The Chessie Nature Trail is a rail trail that connects Lexington and Buena Vista following the Maury River. It has year-round public access for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The trail is a mostly level path (dirt and gravel surface) that’s perfect for gravel bikes and casual rides.

Good to Know:

  • Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.

  • There are no major facilities along the trail, so bring water and snacks.

  • Watch for cattle pastures — stay on the trail and close gates.

  • Visit Friends of the Chessie Trail for more trail rules and tips.

Get there:

Lexington: Park at Jordan’s Point Park or Old Buena Vista Road.

Buena Vista: Park at the Buena Vista Boat Landing.

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Brushy Hills Preserve

A narrow dirt trail at Brushy Hills near Lexington, Virginia winds through a green forest with tall trees and dense foliage.
A trail sign for Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, situated next to a stone building with a sloped metal roof. The trail is surrounded by green trees and budding leaves, with a dirt path leading into a wooded area.

Best for: Mountain bikes

Surface: Singletrack

Distance: Trails are ~ 1 mile each (but can be linked for longer rides)

Difficulty: Moderate

Brushy Hills Preserve is a short 10-15 minute drive from downtown Lexington. Picture a forested network of trails that to explore! It’s a perfect get-away to get a quick mountain bike ride in and a great way to enjoy cooler temps in the summer.

Good to know:

  • There are no facilities so pack ahead and bring water and snacks.

  • The preserve is open year-round; best riding is spring through fall.

  • Visit Friends of Brushy Hills to more about the preserve and upcoming events

Get there:

Trailhead parking is 10 minutes from Lexington on Union Run Road

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U.S. Bicycle Route 76 (TransAmerica Trail)

U.S. Route 76 bicycle route sign with a bicycle icon on a green background.

Best for: Road bikes and touring bikes

Surface: Paved roads

Distance: Varies

Difficulty: Depends on segment

Have you heard of the 1976 Bikecentennial, the cross-country ride via US Route 76 (now the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail), that celebrated America's 200th Anniversary?

Lexington, VA sits right along this famous route which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Riders can follow local stretches west toward Buchanan or east toward the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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