Gear

So you're planning a ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail, but you're not sure what to bring. This page lists a few things that should help add some enjoyment to your ride on the creeper trail.  

1. Rear Rack and Bag.

Okay, so this is actually two things, but they're used together so we'll list them as one. A rear rack is a great way to carry some extra gear when you're heading out on a bike ride. You have some choices when it comes to picking a rear rack. There are some racks that will attach directly to your bicycle, usually on the seat stays. Another option is to get a rear rack that attaches to the seat post of your bicycle. This is the most popular option since they're usually easy to install and can easily be moved to another bicycle. These racks are useful alone for strapping down anything small that you don't mind having exposed to the elements. They also serve as a sort of fender for helping to keep dirt (and mud on rainy days) from being slung up onto your back. 

The rear rack bag is a very popular option for people riding the creeper trail. If you have things that you want to carry with you but you don’t want to expose them to the elements, the rear rack bag is a necessity. If you want to carry a camera, cellular phone, or anything else electronic, you should go for a water-resistant bag. If you just want a handy way to keep your stuff organized, a regular bag should suffice. There are also insulated bags that are great for carrying some cold drinks and snacks for the ride.

2. Basket

A basket is a great way to carry some things on your creeper trail ride. People will generally use either a basket or a rear rack and bag, but it's not unusual for people to bring both along for the ride. Since baskets mount at the front of the bicycle, they offer quick and easy access to your gear. If you're looking for a way to dress up a bicycle, baskets are also a great way to do that. 

3. Flat Tire Repair Kit

Flats happen. The Virginia Creeper Trail is well maintained and flats aren't a major problem, most people will probably never have a flat on the creeper trail. That being said, they can happen and it's good to be prepared. A flat tire repair kit usually consists of a couple of tire levers, a pump, and either a patch or a replacement tube. A patch is a very cheap and easy way to fix a flat, but it involves finding the hole in the tube. A replacement tube is a little bit more expensive, usually about $7, but it's faster and it seems to be the way that most riders are going. 

4.Rain Gear

This is pretty self-explanatory. The weather can change in the mountains pretty quickly. It's always a good idea to have a rain jacket with you when you ride. If you don't have a jacket or you left it at home, grab a cheap disposable poncho. You may not need it, but if you do, you'll be very glad you have it. 

5.Headlight

This isn't something that all riders will need. If you're at risk of being on your bike when it's starting to get dark, it's a good idea to bring a light along. It not only makes it easier to see where you're going, but it makes you more visible to others. It is a necessity if you're planning on going on one of the Creeper Trail full moon rides. These rides are offered through some of the bike shops in Damascus. If you want to get a different perspective on the Creeper Trail, you should consider doing one of these rides.