
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in the scenic Virginia Highlands! On Saturday, May 17, we’ll bike the beautiful Virginia Creeper Trail from Abingdon to Damascus, then relax with drinks at Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, followed by dinner at a local eatery.
On Sunday, May 18, we’ll explore Grayson Highlands State Park on a hike that connects to the Appalachian Trail—with a chance to spot the park’s famous wild ponies!
It's also the Appalachian Trail Days Festival Weekend with plenty of vendors, live music, and events to enjoy. You can join us for one or both days but must register in advance.
Member Status & Registration
An active club membership and RSVP is required to attend these events. Members may bring one guest each. Provide their name and contact information (including an emergency contact) when you register.
Click here to join or renew your membership.
Registration Deadline: Click the blue "Register" button at the top of this page and complete the short form by Thursday, May 15th. Registration closes on Friday, May 16th.
Saturday Biking Details
Meeting Location: Blue Blaze Bike & Shuttle - 226 West Laurel Avenue Damascus, VA 24236
How to Find Us: ARRIVE PROMPTLY AT 10:00 AM to check in at Blue Blaze. Look for our event leaders in club t-shirts with a snowflake QR code on the back. The shuttle leaves at 10:30 AM and takes about 35 minutes to reach Abingdon. We cannot wait for late arrivals.
Blue Blaze Bike & Shuttle Service: Bring your own bike and safety gear or you can rent a bike from Blue Blaze Bike & Shuttle. DO NOT WAIT TO RESERVE YOUR BLUE BLAZE BIKE AND/OR SHUTTLE SERVICE because they they often sell out (especially e-bikes). Call 800-475-5095 to reserve your bike and/or shuttle service. Be sure to tell them you are with the Charlotte Ski and Snowboard group.
Cost: Blue Blaze charges $39 for an adult/teen bike rental and roundtrip shuttle service (ages 13 and up) and $35 for children (ages 12 and under). An e-bike rental plus shuttle is $65. If you are bringing your own bike and only need shuttle service, it's $24 for adults/teens (age 13 and up) and $20 for children (ages 12 and under). Plan to pay for your drink(s) and dinner, too.
Biking Distance: 16 miles
Dinner Location: TBD by group consensus
Other Things to Bring: We will be on the trail for about five hours, so pack lunch, snacks, water, and sunscreen.
Sunday Hiking Details
Meeting Location: Massey Gap Parking at Grayson Highlands State Park - 829 Grayson Highlands Ln, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24236
How to Find Us: ARRIVE PROMPTLY AT 9:30 AM as parking is limited. Look for our event leaders in club t-shirts with a snowflake QR code on the back.
Cost: Parking is $10 per car. Plan to pay for your drink(s) and dinner, too.
Hiking Distance: TBD by the group consensus
Other Things to Bring: Pack a snacks, lunch, water, and sunscreen.
Lodging
Arrange your own lodging if you are joining us for both days. There are multiple campgrounds in the vicinity, including Beartree Recreation Area. You can also stay in the beautiful town of Abingdon or choose a bed & breakfast in Damascus.
Policies
Age & Health Policies: Children 17 and under are welcome to attend with a parent or legal guardian. Everyone must be able to comfortably bike the 16-mile trek and hike. If you have any health problems at all, please include these on your registration form. There is no cell coverage on most of the Virginia Creeper Trail, but park staff patrol the trail.
Weather Policy: We may have to cancel with short notice if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Registrants will be notified via email 24-48 hours before the event if the forecast calls for rain or storms.
Cancellation Policy: If your plans change after you register, log in to the Member Portal and cancel your registration so we know not to expect you. If you reserved a bike/shuttle service, call Blue Blaze at 800-475-5095 ASAP so someone else can book your spot.
Event Leader Contact Info
If you have any questions, contact Alisa Weber at (704) 685-0780.