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A helpful set of guidelines to ensure you ride responsibly and minimize your impact on the local trails and natural environment.
Carvins Cove - Roanoke, VA
Mountain Biking at Carvins Cove
Tucked into Virginia's iconic Blue Ridge Mountains, the 12,700-acre Carvins Cove holds over 60 miles of multi-use trails of which visiting and local mountain bikers can never seem to get enough.
Well-maintained trails twisting through lavish forests, irresistible meadows, and along a 600-acre reservoir make the area an elevated paradise for those seeking unreal adventure on two wheels.
In this detailed guide, we'll cover everything you need to know for an extraordinary day of Carvins Cove mountain biking, including where to park, suggested routes, group and guided rides, nearby fun, and more.
Before Your Ride
Before entering Carvins Cove and hitting the trails, familiarize yourself with the Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics for Mountain Biking. These helpful guidelines set the stage for an enjoyable day of riding while remaining responsible and minimizing your impact on the picturesque, raw nature of Carvins Cove.
Where to Park
The Bennett Springs or Timberview parking lots are the best lots for mountain bikers looking to hit the Cove.
Located near Hollins, the “boat dock” side serves as a boat launch for fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. While you’ll find bathroom facilities at the boat dock and Bennett Springs parking lots, there are no facilities at Timberview.
Suggested Mountain Bike Routes
The two-wheel pedaling action in Carvins Cove generally splits between the “uppers” — more advanced trails — and the “lowers” — those better suited for beginner and less experienced riders.
In addition to the routes below, check out the Carvins Cove trail map to find rides best suited to your skill level. This thorough map highlights which trails allow mountain biking, difficulty level, and more.
- Upper Left Loop - MTB Project
- The Royal Reach Around Trail - Ride With GPS
- Lowers Tour Trail - Ride With GPS
- Old School Trail - Ride With GPS
Group & Guided Rides
No matter the level of skill, some riders enjoy group or guided rides when navigating new territory for the first time. If this is you, the Blue Ridge Off-Road Cyclists and Cardinal Bicycle regularly host group rides. Another option is booking a guided experience with Roanoke Mountain Adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When is Carvins Cove open?
A. Carvins Cove and all trails within are open year-round with the following hours:
- April 1 through October 31: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- November 1 through March 31: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Q. Do you have to pay to park at Carvins Cove?
A. A day use or annual pass is required for riding at the Cove. The daily entrance fee is $7 per vehicle per day and $50 per vehicle for an annual pass. Passes can be purchased online. Read about the necessary steps to purchase in-person passes.
Q. What is there to do at Carvins Cove?
A. Carvins Cove overflows with outdoor recreation opportunities. The Cove offers around 60 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. Among these trails are gravel roads, free-ride downhill trails, and cross-country single track. Other activities include fishing, certain types of boating, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
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Virginia's Blue Ridge is the first IMBA Silver-Level Ride Center for mountain biking on the East Coast!
