What’s great for your health, filled with beauty and packed with history? Biking in the Old Dominion. 

Our state boasts of more than 83 trails located throughout a diverse geography. No matter what your skill level or experience, there are enough trails for everyone to enjoy.  But before you ride, here are a few safety tips to follow:

-          Maintenance - Make sure your bike is functioning properly by checking your brakes, looking for loose wheels, handlebars and other parts.  Always check your tires, seat and chains before you ride off.

-          Equipment - This includes a well-fitting helmet, gloves, knee and/or elbow pads and glasses. If you are tempted to skip the helmet, don’t.  Statistics indicate 60% of biking fatalities are a due to head injuries. 

-          Timing – Riding at dusk and dawn can be dangerous because the sun is in the eyes of drivers. During the day, you can ride more safely if you wear bright colors. At night, light colored, neon and reflective clothing is a must. 

-          Awareness – Safe riders are always aware of their surroundings. This includes cars, pedestrians and other riders. If you are trail riding, you should add wildlife and obstacles such as tree limbs, rocks and uneven surfaces to your list. 

-          Ability – Don’t tackle a long ride if you haven’t ridden in 10 years.  Know your limits and always take water, food and emergency supplies along.  Be sure to tell someone you are going on a ride and when you plan to return.  And don’t forget your cell phone; it could come in handy should you require help.

Now that you are ready to take a safe and enjoyable ride, go to

www.TrailLink.com where you can find maps, photos, descriptions and reviews of Virginia’s top trails.  Popular biking trails include; The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail, The New River National Park Trail, The Chessie Nature Trail and the Washington and Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park (W&OD).