Years ago the Creeper train would slowly make its way up the creek valley to Whitetop where it would be loaded with Red Spruce timber and then on to Abingdon. In the 70's the train stop running and the route was turned into a Rails-to-Trails conversion. Now the trail is a meaningful source of economic development for Damascus, VA bringing in tourists from all corners and beyond -- Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, North Carolina and Virginia.
We caught the Creeper Van Shuttle in Damascus at 10:30 and drove up the valley to Whitetop. From there we unloaded and started our journey.
It was a glorious ride. The leaves were beaming orange, red, and yellow. The trail descended at a 4 degree angle which meant you could ride 17 miles with almost no pedaling. Instead of our legs aching, our hands were sore from all the braking!
The trail has several rest stops along the way including an old country stop and later a restaurant serving a yummy chocolate layered cake.
Fin was the star of the day. Everyone loved him and he brought so many laughs and smiles as he cruised by in his chariot. The trail was so busy that it was not safe to let him trot along side. He was a real champ -- he made it all 17 miles riding in his chariot!
After returning to Damascus in the mid-afternoon, we packed up the car and made our way to Abindgon. What a cute town! The main street is lined with old well kept homes and our Inn is a real delight. The Inn on Town Creek is a residence turned B&B. We have the entire basement suite with kitchen and even a lanai. The floors are flagstone so it's ideal for a visiting canine.
Tonight we dined at the Martha Washington Inn and then saw "Road to Appomattox" at the Barter Theather. We're definitely in the South! It was an enjoyable evening.
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