Biking the Capital Trail- Make it an Overnighter!
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- Posted in Bikepacking, Touring Bikes
Sponsored by Donna Summer
Well-known to us local to the areas, the Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile paved pedestrian and bicycle trail that connects the historic and current capitals of Virginia, Jamestown and Richmond. Following the scenic Route 5 corridor, it offers a wide, accessible, smooth route for mentioned recreational activities and a few convenient amenities like parking areas, restrooms, fix-it stations, and access to restaurants and bike rental companies. Beyond it being a safe stretch to get some miles pedaled away, it's a great opportunity to get a super quick fix in for overnight bikepacking.
A friend and myself started out by parking at Great Shiplock Park in Richmond and launched from there. On a completely paved path with a mostly flat surface and some small rolling hills, we maintained great pacing and chatted along the whole way. I hadn't done this whole trail before, figuring I'd be bored far too quickly into the trip, and was pleasantly surprised. We did this trip in November, and honestly, the weather was pristine. Sunny skies and biking allowed for warm enough temperatures to break a sweat and shed layers, which allowed us to appreciate the route like it was a Sunday cruise on a back country road. Into the afternoon, we had been looking to stop closer to our destination for dinner and a break- a little bike friendly cafe was closed, which led us into Charles City to stop at Culs Courthouse Grille for dinner and a beer. More locals than not were dining in the tiny spot, and a burger and people watching was much appreciated while the chatter reverberated off the soft, old wooden floor slats.
We re-layered, packing on a couple of extra layers as the temperatures dropped with the sun, broke out a bluetooth speaker for some tunes, and departed on the last joint of the journey to bust out the trip. I had registered us at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, gotten a waterside campground and snagged us some firewood upon arrival (after a fun little descent down the Judith Stewart Dresser Memorial Bridge that had landed us there). After setting a tent, a fire, cards and a flask ensued. Jump to the next morning, and we happily awoke to birds dipping and flying along the water in a serene spot. A small morning fire led us along to packing and busting out the journey back.
After a brief break at a stop n shop quickmart gas spot along the way, we pretty much hammered out the journey pretty quickly and got back to the rest of our evening and work week. Honestly, well worth the blip of time allotted and would recommend for a quick rip!
