Biking at Capital Trail
Charles City Courthouse Phase
The Charles City Courthouse Phase of the Virginia Capital Trail travels along side highway 5 for 7 miles. It starts on its east most end near the intersection of highway 5 and highway 155, not far from the Charles City County Historic Visitor's Center and continues west until reaching the intersection of highway 5 and State Route 658. The Visitor Center is located adjacent to the 3rd oldest courthouse in the country. Four outdoor interpretive exhibits provide visitors with information about Charles Citys historic courthouse and engagements at the courthouse during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
Usage:
- Length: 7
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Chickahominy Riverfront Phase
The Chickahominy Riverfront Phase of the Virginia Capital Trail is 5 miles in length and closely follows Highway 5 on a paved path for its entire duration. On its eastern end, this section begins where Greensprings Road meets Highway 5 and continues until the Judith Stewart Dresser Bridge, which crosses the Chickahominy River. The Greensprings Plantation National Historical Site can be reached from the East end of this phase by heading northeast on highway 5 and taking the first left. The site is about 3 tenths of a mile down this road on the left. Back on the trail and heading west, you will find a number of wooden boardwalks that have been constructed to cross the sometimes uneven landscape. The trail crosses a few driveways along the way. Be sure to obey stop signs and be aware of traffic.
Usage:
- Length: 5
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Colonial Parkway Area Phase
The Colonial Parkway Area is located at the Eastern terminus of the Virginia Capital trail. It is 5 miles in length. On the north eastern end, its starts near the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center and continues along the Colonial National Historic Parkway until reaching Greensprings Road, near the Jamestown Settlement Living History Museum and Ships. The Colonial Parkway Area shares the road with vehicles, so use caution and be aware of traffic.
Usage:
- Length: 5
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Greensprings Phase
At 3 miles in length, the Greensprings phase is the shortest section of the Virginia Capital Trail. Starting at the southern end, this section of trail may be accessed from Jamestown Road near the Jamestown Settlement Living History Museum and Ships, and continues northwest on a paved path until reaching Highway 5. Shortly after passing route 680 on the right, heading north, the trail is flanked by large fields. Just a short distance ahead lies a junction between Greensprings and a private road. It is at this location you will find a number of historical markers that interpret a Revolutionary War battle fought on these grounds, the site of a mid-18th century church nearby, the historical significance of the road beside you and the history of ownership involving the land surrounding this area.
Usage:
- Length: 3
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
New Market Heights Phase
When completed in 2013, the New Market Heights Phase will be a 12 mile section of the Virginia Capital Trail. Like most of the trail, it will closely follow Highway 5 on a paved even surface. Along the way, trail users will have access to numerous historical attractions such as the Shirley Plantation, Virginia's oldest plantation, and the Richmond National Battlefield Park. There are also facilities that interpret the areas natural resources like the Harrison Lake Fish Hatchery and the Virginia Commonwealth University's Rice Center. Rest and relaxation can also be found at a bed and breakfast like the historic Edgewood Plantation. And additional outdoor activities may be enjoyed at Deep Bottom Park.
Usage:
- Length: 12
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Richmond Riverfront Phase
The Riverfront phase will be a 3 mile section of the Virginia Capital Trail that completes the western most section of this trail. One half mile is currently complete with 2 and a half miles scheduled to be complete in the near future.
Usage:
- Length: 3
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Sherwood Forest Phase
The Sherwood Forest Phase of the Virginia Capital Trail is slated for completion in 2012. When complete, it will allow access to 13 and a half miles of paved, tree lined trail that follows along side highway 5. Along the way you will be able to encounter many historical sites, plantations and wildlife management areas. If you are traveling this area via automobile, a few gas stations can be found for refueling and purchasing convenience items along the way. The completed trail starts on its east end at the Judith Stewart Dressor Bridge and will continue west until reaching the Charles City Historic Visitor's Center.
Usage:
- Length: 13.5
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Varina Phase
The Varina Phase is a 7 mile section of the Virginia Capital Trail that is scheduled for completion in 2013.
Usage:
- Length: 7
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface: Paved Surface
Other Activities At Capital Trail: Hiking and Educational Activities
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