Smith Mountain River Overlook

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Views

Ride this if you haven't. I've ridden and driven by it many times and decided to just pedal out and see what was there. It's easy to get to, well signed, and low-trafficked.

The first half mile is the hardest, as you immediately start climbing, usually into the wind. The trailhead sign says 2.5 miles to the overlook, but shortly after the first small climb another sign says two miles. So you think you've already done half a mile. Then the next (and steepest) climb comes and you're greeted with another sign that says two miles. So that's kind of disheartening.

After that, it's an enjoyable flat / slow rise pedal to the end. You're on the highest ground immediately around you so views are constant and so is the wind. About two miles in, the road has a little pullout to the right, where you can look over the edge at the river. Another half mile from there and you're at the point where you have massive views of the river bottom and the whole valley around you.

The ride back is more fun than you expect after riding out. Most of the terrain that seemed flat on the way out was actually a slight incline, so that plus having the wind at your back makes the return trip a lot faster. Be mindful that the climbs up were both fairly rocky and you're flying down them on the return, so don't go total brakes for sale.