The Virginia Creeper Bike Trail, a cherished landmark and economic engine in Southwest Virginia, has suffered catastrophic damage in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The storm has profoundly impacted the entire region, with the town of Damascus, a central point on the trail, bearing the brunt of the devastation. While the section of the trail between Abingdon and Damascus has been reopened, encouraging visitors to support local businesses during the holiday season, a significant portion remains in ruins.
The 18-mile stretch of the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Bike Trail from Damascus to Whitetop is particularly affected. A staggering 18 trestles, iconic features of the trail, have been destroyed or washed away by the intense floodwaters. In many areas, the trail itself has vanished, reclaimed by the swollen creeks, leaving behind a scene of widespread destruction. Trailheads, access points, essential amenities, and directional signage have also been obliterated, further compounding the damage.
Scenic Virginia Creeper Bike Trail Trestle before Hurricane Helene Devastation
For nearly four decades, the Virginia Creeper Bike Trail has been a source of joy and unforgettable experiences for countless visitors and local residents alike. More than just a recreational path, the trail is the lifeblood of Damascus and a vital economic driver for the entire region. It has become synonymous with the thriving outdoor recreation economy of Southwest Virginia, attracting tourists and supporting numerous local businesses.
The Virginia Creeper Bike Trail benefits from a broad and dedicated community, encompassing trail enthusiasts, small businesses that depend on trail-related tourism, the municipalities of Damascus and Abingdon responsible for trail sections, Washington and Grayson Counties, state and federal entities, non-profit partners, community leaders, and the US Forest Service, where the most severe damage occurred.
Rebuilding this treasured trail will be a substantial undertaking, requiring significant time and considerable financial resources. No single organization can bear the full burden of this restoration effort. Therefore, the Virginia Creeper Trail Conservancy has launched a crucial “Recovery Campaign” to gather the necessary funding. The support and commitment of the community are now more vital than ever to ensure the Virginia Creeper Bike Trail’s future. As the trail community moves into the recovery phase with renewed determination, rebuilding the trail and securing a sustainable future for the region will require a collective effort.
The Virginia Creeper Trail’s motto, “One trail… by the hands of many,” has never been more relevant. The collective hands of many are urgently needed to restore this majestic trail to its former glory.
Click here to donate and support the Virginia Creeper Bike Trail Recovery Campaign.
The Virginia Creeper Trail Conservancy expresses sincere gratitude for your invaluable support during this critical time.
The Virginia Creeper Trail Conservancy
