Draper Mercantile Trading

The Foster Falls – New River Bridge loop cycling route offers a deep dive into the natural and historical landscape of the New River Trail State Park. You'll pedal along a well-maintained crushed stone path, tracing the ancient New River, often under a lush canopy of trees. The route is punctuated by nearly 30 smaller bridges and impressive trestles, including the Hiwassee and Ivanhoe, providing sweeping views, and two unlighted tunnels that add a unique element of adventure to the ride.

This difficult 38.8-mile (62.4 km) touring cycling route, with 1660 feet (506 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 5 hours and 11 minutes to complete. While much of the New River Trail is known for its gentle slope, be aware that the section approaching Draper from the south involves a notable uphill climb. Hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended for optimal comfort on the crushed stone surface, and access points are available at both Draper and Foster Falls.

This particular section of the New River Trail is a prime example of a successful rail-to-trail conversion, blending natural beauty with rich industrial history. You'll encounter historical remnants like the Jackson Ferry Shot Tower, offering glimpses into the region's past. The trail's recognition as a National Recreation Trail underscores its significance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of scenic beauty and historical context on their Draper Virginia cycling trails adventure.

The Hiwassee River Bridge – New River Bridge loop from Draper offers a fantastic touring cycling experience, blending natural beauty with historical engineering. You'll pedal through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open river corridors, with the majestic Hiwassee River Bridge providing a spectacular focal point. Keep an eye out for the unique "Ghost Train" sculptures along the New River Trail, adding an intriguing touch to the scenery.

This moderate 13.0-mile (20.9 km) route, with its 553 feet (169 metres) of elevation gain, is generally completed in about 1 hours and 18 minutes, making it a perfect half-day adventure. Parking is typically available in Draper, and the trail is well-suited for cyclists with good fitness. For a post-ride treat, the Draper Mercantile in Draper is a popular spot to grab a bite.

This Hiwassee River cycling loop is part of the broader New River Trail, a significant rail-trail built on an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The New River itself is one of the oldest rivers in the US, notable for flowing north, and you'll enjoy its scenic banks throughout your ride. The route combines paved surfaces with sections of doubletrack, offering varied terrain and plenty of viewpoints along the New River Bridge cycling trail.

The Foster Falls – New River Bridge loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience along the historic New River, tracing an abandoned railroad corridor. You'll ride on mostly crushed gravel, enjoying constant river views, passing through lush, shaded areas, and crossing impressive bridges like the Fries Junction Bridge. The route also features unique railroad tunnels and the picturesque cascading waters of Foster Falls, making for a diverse and engaging ride.

To tackle this difficult 44.1-mile (71.0 km) route, plan for about 5 hours and 34 minutes of cycling, with 1957 feet (596 metres) of elevation gain. Start your adventure at the Foster Falls access point, which has parking and a visitor center. Remember that the trail is multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with hikers and horseback riders, yielding to horses as a courtesy. Tires of at least 32mm width are recommended for comfort on the gravel surface.

This section of the New River Trail State Park is celebrated for its rail-to-trail legacy, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Beyond the scenic river views and the Foster Falls area, you'll encounter the historic Jackson Ferry Shot Tower, a 75-foot tall structure built in 1807. The trail's gentle grades, a hallmark of its railway past, make it accessible while still providing a substantial distance challenge for touring cyclists.