When: September 12 to 13, 2026 (Rain or Shine)
Join the VeloPigs for a two-day bikepacking adventure on Virginia’s beautiful New River Trail State Park.
You may want to make your way on Friday. You can stay the night at a hotel close to the trail or camp. You will need to make your own arrangements for Friday. A couple of us plan to stay at a hotel. As soon as we find one, we will post it here so you can make your arrangement.
The Ride
Saturday, September 12
Pulaski to Cliffview Campground
Approximately 48 to 49 miles
Sunday, September 13
Cliffview Campground to Pulaski
Approximately 48 to 49 miles
Total Weekend Distance: Approximately 96 to 98 miles
The New River Trail follows a former railroad corridor through southwestern Virginia. It offers beautiful views of the New River, historic bridges, tunnels, and dams, as well as small communities along the way.
Saturday’s ride will include stops at several points of interest, including Hiwassee River Bridge, Foster Falls, the historic Shot Tower, Ivanhoe, Buck Dam, Byllesby Dam, and Fries Junction. We will also have designated stops for water, restrooms, food, and group regrouping.
Saturday evening, we will camp at Cliffview Campground near Galax. We are also planning a visit to Creek Bottom Brewing, Distillery & Restaurant for a well-earned post-ride beer.
Sunday morning, we will pack up our bikes and make the return trip from Cliffview to Pulaski.
What to Expect
This is a bikepacking ride, so riders will need to carry their camping equipment, clothing, food, and other necessary gear on their bikes.
The trail is primarily crushed stone with gradual railroad grades. Although there are no major mountain climbs, riders should be prepared for approximately 50 miles of riding on consecutive days while carrying bikepacking gear.
If you dont want to camp, there are a few hotels close to the trail. You need to coordinate that yourself.
We are currently planning for approximately 6-12 riders.
Interested in Joining Us?
Let us know if you are interested in participating. Complete the form below.
A complete trip itinerary will be sent directly to each person interested in the ride. The full itinerary will include hotel information, campground reservations, daily schedules, Ride with GPS routes and elevation profiles, water and restroom locations, points of interest, food stops, emergency information, and a complete bikepacking packing checklist.
Come spend a weekend riding, camping, and exploring one of Virginia’s most scenic rail trails!
