The Chessie Trail lies along the right of way formerly occupied by the C& O rail tracks that connected Lexington with the main line near Buena Vista. The trail is a very flat 7 miles. Bikes are allowed on the trail.
The Chessie Trail parking area is signed and is about a 5 minute drive from downtown. From town, go north on Main Street (rte 11 business). In a mile, it connects with Rte 11 north crossing the Maury River. Take the first right after the bridge onto Old Buena Vista Rd. Within a mile you pass old small industrial bldgs.
Park on the right behind the building with the large PURE sign; do NOT park behind the neighboring building. There are also a few spaces shortly past the Pure building on the right, respect the do not park signs.
The pedestrian bridge over the South River (about 5 miles from the trail head shown here) was washed out; you’ll need to walk along the road to continue to the terminus in Buena Vista. Background info on Chessie Trail
Download a detailed Chessie Trail Map
Cattle roam part of the trail about 4 miles from the trail head near Lexington
Downtown Lexington Virginia Guide 