Virginia Capital Trail
Route
Jamestown to Richmond, Virginia
Miles
52
Start Location
Historic Jamestown
Enjoy a two-day, out-and-back ride along the Virginia Capital Trail. Starting at the trailhead of the Virginia Capital Trail (a complementary trail of the East Coast Greenway) near the Historic Jamestown Settlement, which offers a look at early American living. On the 52-mile trail to downtown Richmond — along the James River and State Route 5 — pass battlegrounds and wildlife refuges, historic homes and parks.
Following a night in Richmond, a city full of heritage and great eats, explore the Greenway downtown, passing by vibrant murals and sculptures and check out a unique bike-pedestrian suspension bridge to Belle Isle in the James River.
After breakfast in the city, bike back to Jamestown on the Capital Trail. At the end of the ride, explore the Jamestown Settlement Museums and the Colonial Parkway (extra 8-mile scenic ride or drive).
While this itinerary is written for a Williamsburg to Richmond route, the trip can easily be reversed. For riders interested in a one-way, one-day trip, the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation has outlined bus and train options for return travel.
Accommodations & Provisions
Downtown Richmond offers a number of lodging options featured in a handy list compiled by our friends at the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. A great mid-way stopping point for lunch is Cul’s Courthouse Grille in Charles City. Celebrate the end of your ride at Stone Brewing, just off of the Capital Trail, as you approach downtown Richmond.Dinner options abound and include Kuba Kuba (Cuban) and Sticky Rice (Asian fusion). In the morning, enjoy breakfast at Lamplighter Coffee, a bike-themed cafe.
Recommendations by Sarah Sanford, former Virginia and North Carolina Coordinator for the East Coast Greenway.
More Itineraries
With a 3,000-mile route spanning Maine to Florida, the possibilities are endless for day trips, multi-day excursions and long-distance rides along the East Coast Greenway.
