Ride Guide
This route connects the established cycling community of Harrisonburg in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley with its mountain town gateway counterpart, Franklin, just over the state line along the Allegheny Front.
Departing Harrisonburg’s historic downtown, the route rolls through scenic Rockingham County farmland before climbing west toward the ridges. Hopkins Gap feels stout early on — but it’s only a warmup for what’s ahead. The real highlights are the long, steady ascent up Long Run Road to the Virginia–West Virginia state line, followed by a rewarding descent along Rough Run into your first West Virginia valley at Fort Seybert, just north of Brandywine. One final steep push over South Fork Mountain and Brushy Mountain drops you into Franklin. Use caution on the final miles along Rt. 33 / Blue Gray Trail.
A few important notes: the climb up Long Run Road can take many bikepackers half a day to cover fewer than 30 miles. After rain, the descent into West Virginia may include multiple stream crossings — sometimes ankle- to knee-deep — so plan accordingly and carry dry layers in colder seasons. Primitive camping is available in George Washington National Forest between roughly miles 12 and 35. Be mindful of posted hunting club property along sections of the road.
Harrisonburg offers full services — bike shops, lodging, groceries, restaurants — but there are no resupply options until Franklin, which has typical small-town amenities including food, lodging, and nearby camping. The route overlaps briefly with the TransVirginia Bike Route near the state line.
Contributed by David Landis
