Mendota Trail — Attraction in Virginia

This trail could be way better and let me explain. First off the first 4 miles is just walking next to a road which I understand the railroad ran along side of it but I suggest if your walking it to start at the second parking lot and not at the trailhead near the interstate. This trail is great for a biker but not so great for a hiker. Also the water fountain that is located at the second parking lot didn’t work which doesn’t make much sense like why put a water fountain in and not turn it on especially if it’s installed. The trail is so well built but is boring and has very little character especially when you’re walking through people’s backyards for the first 7 miles. After the 7 mile marker though the trail gets a little better, it still lacks excitement or enthusiasm. The only plus to making it to the end was the swing bridge and the lookout tower that you can see if you look straight up from the posted sign but other than that I wouldn’t walk it again. The full walk is a good 13 miles from the second parking lot to the end of the trail and back. Beautifully built trail, just built in the...

Very nice biking trail that is 25 miles round trip Bristol to Mendota to Bristol, Va. New looking paved parking lot with 2very clean bathrooms, shelter/picnic area, water fountains and more in Bristol. First half mile is smooth pavement, The remainder is predominantly packed and loose pea gravel. Some areas are more like 57 gravel. It averages about 5 feet in width narrowing along Campground Rd. Be aware the gravel on path parallel to Campground Rd is loose, it is narrow with blind curves and brush overgrowing the path. Bridges/trestles appear to be new, nice and sturdy. Cool swinging suspension bridge (Abbotts Crossing) along side Sunny Side Trestle at about the 11 mile marker. A subtle and continuous climb from Mendota to Bristol. Bucolic mountain vistas, river views, mostly shaded trails, some wildlife. Hodge Podge eatery right at trail’s end in Mendota. Menu looked yummy and has outdoor tables to keep an eye on your bike. Recommend for a peaceful and...

Absolutely loved this trail. Rode both ends. The Bristol side has 6 miles complete at this time. The trail is a little bumpy and has some ups and downs but definitely manageable for most riders. The Mendota side has 2 miles open to the public and even nicer than the Bristol side. There is a German Shepard near the start of trail that is harmless to walkers and riders. Also the trail does run through or near some properties just like all rail trails that I have been on. If this is something that bothers you then you may want to stick with greenways/multi use paths. I was lucky enough to meet a local volunteer or offered to take me an additional 2 or so miles in on the Mendota side! Let me just say once complete I believe this trail will be a real gem 💎 and I definitely recommend if your in the area to...