Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

Bike Meet-Up "Ride-the-Rails: Galax to Gambetta Tunnel"

Location of New River Trail State Park in Virginia

Where

New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
Galax- 212 East Stuart Dr. Galax, Va 24333

When

May 16, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

This is an intermediate and fun ride for cyclists of all skill levels that covers 21.4 miles out and back and lasts about 2.5 hours. This is a great time of year to enjoy spring wildflowers along the trail and a unique trail feature: a 195 ft tunnel.

Gravel or road tires work on New River Trail. It depends on the rider's skill set and preference. This program is entirely weather dependent. It will be cancelled due to inclement weather or unsuitable trail conditions. Please note there is a $7 parking fee charged year-round at all New River Trail State Park access points.

Group Ride: The ranger-led bike meet-up will meet at the Galax parking area. Be ready to ride at 5:30 p.m. Rides will be at a group pace. Riders may turn around at any point depending on fitness, preferred distance, and riding comfort. You must provide your own bike.

Etiquette: Be sure to leave no trace, ride within your limits, and anticipate other trail users. Stay right, pass left. Be aware of surroundings, especially on multi-use trails where you will encounter hikers, runners, and horseback riders. Pedestrians and equestrians have the right of way. Communicate your presence when approaching from behind.

Maintain Your Bike: Inspect your equipment before you ride. Check your tires for proper air pressure. Be sure your brakes are in working order. Lubricate and check the chain for broken links or rust. Carry a flat repair kit (tube, pump, tire levers) and a multi-tool.

Bring Appropriate Gear: Make sure you’re dressing for the weather. Bring appropriate layers. Bring snacks, fuel, and plenty of water. Always wear a helmet (required) and appropriate safety gear.

2024 Rides
3/28, 4/4, 4/11: Redbud Ride - Austinville to Byllesby Dam (17.2 miles roundtrip)
4/18: Fries to Gambetta Tunnel (14 miles RT)
4/25: Foster Falls to Ivanhoe (16 miles RT)
5/16: Galax to Gambetta Tunnel (21.4 miles RT)
6/13, 6/27: Bike & Brunch - Draper to Hiwassee (8.6 miles RT)
7/4: Red, Bike & Blue Ride - Austinville to Buck Dam (12 miles RT)
8/15: Galax to Chestnut Falls (12.8 miles RT)
9/12: Ivanhoe to Byllesby (11.4 miles RT)
9/19: Draper to Hiwassee (8.6 miles RT)
10/3: Fries to Fries Junction (10.6 miles RT)
10/17: Fall Color Ride - Foster Falls to Ivanhoe (16 miles RT)
10/24: Fall Color Ride - Cliffview to Chestnut Yard (8.4 miles RT)

Biking new river trail

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov

Event types

Outdoor/Nature/Natural History

Additional dates

Bike Meet-Up "Bike & Brunch: Draper to Hiwassee" - June 13, 2024. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Bike & Brunch: Draper to Hiwassee" - June 27, 2024. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Red, Bike, and Blue Ride: Austinville to Buck Dam" - July 4, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Ride-the-Rails: Galax to Chestnut Falls" - Aug. 15, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Ride-the-Rails: Draper to Hiwassee" - Sept. 5, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Ride-the-Rails: Ivanhoe to Byllesby" - Sept. 12, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Ride-the-Rails: Fries to Fries Junction" - Oct. 3, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Fall Color Ride: Foster Falls to Ivanhoe" - Oct. 17, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Bike Meet-Up "Fall Color Ride: Cliffview to Chestnut Yard" - Oct. 24, 2024. 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.