Beers & Brews
Choose Your Own Adventure in Lynchburg, VA
May 7, 2025
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg is affectionately known as the City of Seven Hills. A revitalized riverfront, lush green spaces and scenic mountain trails beckon visitors outdoors all summer long. After a day of adventure, visit one of the area’s charming neighborhoods, where local restaurants dish out warm hospitality and fresh cuisine to renew the body and spirit.
Take a Hike
While the nearby Appalachian Trail is a bucket-list item for avid hikers, Candlers Mountain is another must-visit. The city’s tallest mountain features a 65-mile network of scenic trails, earning Lynchburg a spot among Trail Runner magazine’s “Top Trail Towns” and a “Runner-Friendly City” designation by Road Runners Club of America.
With 40 miles of urban flat trails, there’s a hike for every skill level and terrain preference. For a great summer hike, check out Dirty Ridge and Lake Trail Loop. Be sure to stay for the sunset — the mountain offers some of the best views in town.
Refuel: Head down the mountain for upscale Mexican cuisine at Papa Gallo, located in the popular River Ridge lifestyle center. Start with a skinny margarita and a basket of chips with four fresh salsas made in-house.
Get out on the Water
Grab an innertube and go with the flow on the historic James River. Take off on a three-mile river trip with one of the city’s outfitters, splash through gentle rapids, and stop off at one of several islands. Kayaking and canoeing trips can also be arranged either on the James River or at Ivy Creek Park’s Clemmons Lake.
Refresh: Check out Lynchburg’s new dining hotspot, Trailhead, named for its prime location on Percival’s Island Trail. Sit outside on the covered patio for casual fare, buckets of beer, and Sunset S’more Kits for the kids. Another go-to is Jo Jo Pizza, where locals can’t get enough of the authentic Sicilian dishes, specialty pastas and cheesesteaks.
Go for a Ride
Lynchburg might be known for its mountain biking, but the city is also home to one of Virginia’s most unique urban trail systems. Part of the James River Heritage Trail System, Lynchburg’s 40 miles of paved and natural pathways wind through urban forests, in the heart of downtown, and over the James River. Start at the Blackwater Creek Trail, built along a former railway and continues three miles to the popular RiverWalk trail. Don’t miss the Awareness Garden, a peaceful green space dedicated to those affected by cancer.
Re-energize: Located in a charming cottage right off the trail, Farm Basket gift shop serves gourmet sandwiches, salads, and boxed lunches perfect for a picnic. Or sink your teeth into the city’s best cheeseburger and a side of seasoned fries at The Cavalier, a Rivermont Avenue institution since 1940.
Hit the Slopes
Lynchburg is the only spot on the East Coast offering snow skiing, sledding, snowboarding and tubing all four seasons. The slopes feature Snowflex, an innovative material that closely mimics snow, while a misting system helps boards and skis glide — and a padded subsurface eases falls. The state-of-the-art venue boasts jumps, rails, and a quarter pipe along with a bunny slope for beginners.
Open seven days a week, Liberty Mountain Snowflex also offers rentals, lessons, and other outdoor activities, like an Olympic-grade trampoline.
Revive: Head to Montana Plains’ family-owned bakery and café, where breads, sandwiches, and dessert are all made from scratch. Be sure to save room for their mixed berry pie or a chocolate eclair — you’ve earned it!
By Laura Lee