Mendota Trail

It was nice to see improvements but not what I expected. This journey is all flat and in the full sun for the most part. I will try going from another section next trip. Will keep you posted

We rode our bikes on July 14, 2023 starting at the Bristol, VA parking area. The trail was complete for 6 miles. It was uphill for the first mile then leveled off for a mile then dropped for a couple of miles then leveled off again. All in all we rode 12 miles round trip with a total elevation gain of 800 feet. My least favorite part was a small area that was a steep narrow uphill with rough gravel, and paralleled a road. Otherwise it was a nice beautiful bike ride.

Beautiful well-developed long trail. Great for running and conditioning

I feel so lucky to live near such a beautiful trail. I’m so happy that the trail has opened end to end. I can’t wait to see the entire area. The trail head in Bristol is so nice. There are some amazing beauty spots. It’s a labor of love for those that maintain the trail and they do a fantastic job.

Great trail and even better after the recent upgrades to the Bristol trailhead in the Spring of 2022. From Bristol, the first half mile is now paved. First 3 miles from Bristol are uphill and then 2 miles down hill to Benhams where another parking lot is. Beautiful scenery, well marked and signage. There are several road crossings that require caution. I've also noticed that there are a few more flying bugs than some other local trails.

Fun easy trail to walk but really wish I had a bike to truly enjoy this one. Very easy with just one small hill near the Bristol Trailhead. You are walking in some front and back yards so I wouldn't suggest this trail if you're trying to get out into the wilderness.

Trail is about a mile, before it becomes challenging to follow. It is paved for awhile, and a nice relatively flat trail for anyone.

The Mendota Trail is now open for most of it’s length. However the Bristol, VA official parking lot is not available until the American with Disabilities Act Certification is completed. The trail may be accessed many points along the various roads to Mendota.

From the Mendota end, several miles of trail are accessible, including the Swinging Bridge. Situated along the North Fork of the Holston River. Great for hiking & biking!

The Mendota Trail will connect to Bristol in 2023. Please respect private property rights, and respect our public property!

Beautiful trail. Just scouting yesterday, 9/23/23. Rode to 3 mile marker and back to Bristol trailhead. Somewhat rough re large gravel in places but our street bycycles did fine. Consider walking your bike down one short steep gravel hill. Understand full 12 plus mile trail opened recently so returning soon for 25 mile ride.

This trail I believe still partially finished. But what is finished is beautiful! The rest down into mendota will be amazing. Steep gorges and trestles. Can't wait.

Very nice 12.5 mile trail. 25 miles out and back.

Nice trail to hike on. Hopefully now that the tail is open that some of the people that own property near the trail will clean up their trash. Some great views await you for a nice adventure!

Nice, shaded hike...no steep hills, good for walking or biking...very scenic

Great trail, easy walk, good parking. Good for biking.

We biked the trail and loved it. We will be back.

We only did 5 miles so not sure where it ends. 8 think there's two mendota trails though, unless they connect somewhere I haven't found yet. Walk, hike or bike this trail

Absolutely loved this trail. Rode both ends. The Bristol side has 6 miles complete at this time. The trail is a little bumpy and has some ups and downs but definitely manageable for most riders. The Mendota side has 2 miles open to the public and even nicer than the Bristol side. There is a German Shepard near the start of trail that is harmless to walkers and riders. Also the trail does run through or near some properties just like all rail trails that I have been on. If this is something that bothers you then you may want to stick with greenways/multi use paths. I was lucky enough to meet a local volunteer or offered to take me an additional 2 or so miles in on the Mendota side! Let me just say once complete I believe this trail will be a real gem 💎 and I definitely recommend if your in the area to give it a go!

It is open from Bristol to Mendota(12.5 miles) Most of it is bike worthy all is walkable.

I’m so excited to have this awesome trail right in my town!!! Everyone who comes to Bristol needs to stop and enjoy this gorgeous place! It’s so well maintained and fun to bike, walk or run it! Come and visit this beautiful place!!! Can’t wait to see the new section you’re working on. Yay!!!! Mendota Trail!!!❤❤❤❤You make me SMILE!!

Well marked. Really enjoyed my run here.