Lakeside Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from McDonald's

If you're looking for a substantial touring bicycle adventure through Southwest Virginia's countryside, the Lakeside Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from McDonald's offers a challenging ride. This difficult 39.2-mile (63.0 km) route, with 2290 feet (698 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 11 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for experienced cyclists ready to tackle varied terrain and enjoy a scenic journey.

What to expect on Lakeside Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from McDonald's

The route primarily follows the Mendota Trail, a former rail corridor that winds through tranquil farmlands, open pastures, and forests. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, predominantly crushed stone, but also asphalt, finer gravel, larger rocks, and some dirt and grass sections. Mountain bikes are highly recommended for comfort, as hybrid bikes without shocks might find parts of the trail too bumpy. A highlight of the journey is crossing the seventeen restored trestle bridges, offering picturesque views over creeks and the North Fork of the Holston River. Keep an eye out for the scenic "the gorge" segment between mile markers 7.0 and 9.5, and the unique 275-foot-long swinging bridge near mile marker 11.5. While mostly gentle, expect a few short, steeper sections with grades approaching 8%.

Planning your visit

This loop begins from a McDonald's, likely in Bristol, Virginia, requiring you to connect to the Bristol Trailhead of the Mendota Trail. The Bristol Trailhead is located at 3460 Island Rd, Bristol, VA. Amenities along the Mendota Trail include picnic tables, seasonal restrooms at the Bristol Trailhead, and year-round port-a-potties in Benhams and Mendota. Be aware that cell service can be absent or limited along much of this remote trail, so plan accordingly.

Trail details

• Distance: 39.2 miles (63.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 2290 feet (698 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 4 hours and 11 minutes