Virginia Capital Trail

The Route

Start: Williamsburg, Virginia 

Beginning at the trailhead of the Virginia Capital Trail (a complementary trail of the East Coast Greenway) near the Historic Jamestown Settlement, you’ll ride the 52-mile trail to downtown Richmond. Enjoy the artsy, historic vibe of this city. After breakfast in the city, bike back to Jamestown on the Capital Trail. At the end of ride, explore the Jamestown Settlement Museums and the Colonial Parkway (extra 8-mile scenic ride or drive).

Trip route, turn by turn directions

Jamestown Settlement Museums 

Colonial Parkway

Route Reversal: While this itinerary is written for a Williamsburg to Richmond route, the trip can easily be reversed. For riders interested in a one-way, one-day trip, the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation has outlined bus and train options here for return travel.

Lodging, Provisions

Spend the night in Richmond at the HI Hostel, a cool, bike-friendly hostel located in the heart of downtown (private rooms available), right on the East Coast Greenway and blocks from the James River. 

HI Hostel 

Please note that the HI Hostel is currently closed. Click here for a list of other downtown Richmond hotel options. 

Provisions: A great mid-way stopping point for lunch is Cul's Courthouse Grille in Charles City. Celebrate the end of your ride at Stone Brewing, just off of the Capital Trail as you approach downtown Richmond. Dinner options include Kuba Kuba (Cuban), Ipanema Cafe (vegan/vegetarian) and Sticky Rice (Asian fusion). In the morning, enjoy breakfast at Lamplighter Coffee, a bike-themed cafe.

Cul's Courthouse Grille

Stone Brewing

Kuba Kuba

Ipanema Cafe

Sticky Rice

Lamplighter Coffee

Sarah Sanford is the Virginia and North Carolina Coordinator for the East Coast Greenway. A former Virginian, she lives in the Triangle region of North Carolina.