How to Explore Charlottesville and Albemarle County on Two Wheels

Tap into the expertise of local guides who can show you the ropes as you explore Charlottesville and Albemarle County on two wheels. Whether you're looking for an e-bike cruise to award-winning wineries or a custom cycling route, these tour operators will set you up for an excellent day of adventure.

Many of the parks in Albemarle County maintain great trail networks. Walnut Creek Park has a number of routes for riders of all experience levels as well as a large reservoir for kayaking and stand-up paddling boarding and a disc golf course.

Preddy Creek Park is a great place for beginner riders to boost their skills with fun and flowing trails and loops of different lengths. Other parks with mountain bike trails include Mint Springs Valley Park, Patricia Ann Byrom Forest Preserve, and Biscuit Run Park. Be sure to keep an eye on Biscuit Run Park - work is being done on a new downhill skills area within the park that would be the first of its kind in the area!

One of the newest trail networks to be established in Charlottesville, the Heyward Community Forest is located just southwest of Charlottesville and adjoins the Ragged Mountain Natural Area. Volunteers have come together to build a few mountain bike-inspired trails, and the community continues to develop this area for a diverse network of trail users.

In addition to biking at Heyward, you can add on a hike at Ragged Mountain Natural Area and a paddle on the beautiful reservoir. Afterwards, you can bike to Jefferson Park Ave, near the University of Virginia, where you’ll find a popular stretch of businesses and restaurants. Grab a drink or a bite to eat at Atlas Coffee, Mashumen, or Durty Nelly’s.

*2026 NOTE* Ragged Mountain Natural Area is currently under construction, with multiple main trail closures and no access to the reservoir for paddling or other water activities. Find updates here.

The Rivanna Trail is one of the most unique recreation offerings in the area with the full length of the 20+ mile trail circumventing the City of Charlottesville. The trail surface varies – you’ll find pavement, crushed gravel, and dirt singletrack throughout the route, offering a little bit of something for everyone. Look for the white diamond with green circle and the letters “RTF” to guide you along the trail.

Hosted annually on National Public Lands Day in September, the Loop De’Ville Festival is a celebration of the local trail community with events such as guided hikes, bike rides, walks and other community events. The festival celebrates the 20+ mile Rivanna Trail and is a great way for new users to explore the trail with group leaders who are familiar with the route.

This year’s festival takes place on September 27, 2026 with an after party on Saturday night. The party will take place at Rivanna River Company and includes free music and pop-ups from local food and drink vendors.

When you leave Charlottesville and enter surrounding Albemarle County, you will be greeted with quiet rural roads, plentiful wineries and breweries, and some of the best views in Central Virginia. Head out to Crozet, located in the western part of the county, for scenic roads along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Start your ride at a local coffee shop in town and end it at one of the area’s many wineries or breweries with breathtaking views of the mountains. You may also find yourself in Scottsville, due south of Charlottesville, where you can follow the James River as it meanders through the valley, discover local wineries along your route, and visit historic Valley Street.

Bringing your own set of wheels? Need new gear or repair services? Our local outfitters will equip you with everything you need to ride!

No bike? No problem. Charlottesville makes it easy to get rolling, whether you’re looking to rent for the day or borrow for a quick spin around town. With a variety of local outfitters and community programs offering everything from cruisers to road bikes, you’ll find an option that fits your pace and your plans.

Looking to ride with a likeminded group either on the road or dirt trails? Many of the local bike shops and bike clubs offer group rides weekly for riders of all experience levels. Check out their websites for regular updates and keep an eye on the Bike Charlottesville calendar.

Now that you know where to ride, it’s time to plan your stay! Choose from a cottage or B&B in the countryside closer to those rural rides or browse the many hotels located in Downtown Charlottesville where you can walk to restaurants, bars, and the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall.

We hope you’ll explore all the incredible experiences our destination has to offer – from wine and craft beverage trails to live music to an incredible restaurant scene. We can't wait to welcome you to Charlottesville and Albemarle County soon! Start planning your stay today!