If you’re looking for a cycling adventure that combines challenging climbs, remote mountain landscapes, beautiful valleys, and a journey through the heart of rural Southwest Virginia, the Heart of Appalachia Bicycle Route deserves a place on your bucket list!
Many maps show the full route as approximately 128 miles. However, the ride featured in this guide is a recommended 99-mile cycling adventure through some of the most scenic and memorable landscapes in the Heart of Appalachia.
You can ride a section of the route, complete the three-day itinerary, or turn your trip into a bikepacking adventure with overnight stays at recommended campgrounds and other lodging options along the way.
For riders planning to experience the entire 99-mile ride, we recommend beginning in Burkes Garden in Tazewell County, Virginia, with lodging and camping options suggested along the route.
This is an expert-level ride best suited for experienced cyclists who are comfortable with challenging climbs, changing road surfaces, remote stretches, and the demands of mountain cycling.
The Heart of Appalachia Bicycle Route is a 99-mile adventure through remote wilderness, scenic farmlands, and the beautiful Clinch River Valley. Truly a hidden treasure of a ride! Endurance cyclists may choose to tackle the route in a single day, while those seeking a more leisurely adventure can experience it as a multi-day bikepacking trip. Possibly one of the best cycling experiences in Southwest Virginia, this route showcases bicycling at its best in the Heart of Appalachia — Best of Virginia’s West!
Heart of Appalachia Bicycle Route: A 99-Mile Adventure Through Southwest Virginia
Before You Ride
- Recommended route: 99 miles
- Difficulty: Expert
- Recommended starting point: Burkes Garden, Tazewell County
- Trip style: Three-day ride, individual sections, or bikepacking adventure
- Cell service: Generally good in many areas, but coverage can vary in remote mountain and forest sections
- Navigation: Use the mapping app of your choice; Ride with GPS is recommended
- Camping: Several options are available along or near the route
Prepare for 40% gravel, 60% asphalt, unparalleled beauty of national forest, farmlands, and fertile river valleys
What is the Heart of Appalachia Bicycle Route?
The Heart of Appalachia Bicycle Route was created decades ago by Frank Kilgore, a passionate Southwest Virginian and advocate for the outdoors. His vision helped establish a route that showcases the region’s mountain scenery, rural communities, and extraordinary outdoor recreation opportunities.
Today, we proudly promote this route in honor of Mr. Kilgore and the legacy he left for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to ride a short section, complete the three-day itinerary, or challenge yourself with an endurance ride, this journey offers an opportunity to experience Southwest Virginia at your own pace.
Come for the ride. Stay for the scenery. Discover the communities, landscapes, and one-of-a-kind experiences that make the Heart of Appalachia special.
Wildlife and Natural Encounters on the Trail
One of the most exciting aspects of riding this bicycle route is the chance to experience Appalachian wildlife in its natural habitat.
Prepare to encounter:
The entire HOA bicycle route travels amazing forest and farmlands, making wildlife encounters especially memorable.
The combination of national forest/wilderness lands, farmlands, and fertile river valleys created a thriving environment where wildlife continues to return and expand.
Camping and lodging options
Recommended Camping Options
Depending on your itinerary and availability, consider these locations:
- Jefferson National Forest: Dispersed camping may be available in designated or otherwise permitted areas. Check current Forest Service regulations before setting up camp.
- Slates Family Farm Campground: Honaker, near the Clinch River; seasonal operation, generally April through October.
- Cleveland River Bend Campground: An option to investigate when planning your route and overnight stops.
- Mountventures: Near St. Paul, offering another option for an overnight adventure.
Confirm campground locations, operating dates, reservations, and bicycle access before departure.
