The Upper County Park trail is a 3.7-mile loop within the 75-acre Upper County <br />
Park in James City County, Virginia. The trail begins near the end of the cul-de-<br />
sac at the end of the park entrance road. Look for the mountain bike trail signs. <br />
The trail is on the left of the chained-off gravel road that leads back into the <br />
woods. Much like other trails in the area the loop contains many quick climbs <br />
and descents through ravines that surround the creek and bottomland areas <br />
adjacent to the park. The route is somewhat technical with tight turns and off <br />
camber sections. There are, however, fast stretches that use the terrain for <br />
banked turns. One downhill contains four turns that take you from side to side <br />
in a small ravine much like a bobsled course. Although shorter than other <br />
nearby trails maintained and constructed by the Eastern Virginia Mountain <br />
Association (EVMA), the trail is no less demanding. In fact, aerobically it is one of <br />
the more challenging. Many of the climbs come one after the other with few flat <br />
areas to recover. This trail requires attention. You will find it hard to take you <br />
hands off the bar to grab a water bottle or even your hydration pack hose. The <br />
trail sees little use, so expect a few sticks and branches and a narrow tread <br />
through the will blueberry (lowbush) which covers much of the forest floor along <br />
the trail.<br />
The trail was designed to be ridden clockwise but can be ridden in both <br />
directions. In fact, counter clockwise seems to require more climbing and it will <br />
take you a bit longer to complete a loop. You can also ride the trail in a figure <br />
eight since there is a cross over near the mid-way point. Also, if you are riding <br />
clockwise, look for a bailout near the 3-mile point. The bailout drops you in on <br />
an old gravel road that makes a loop through the woods starting near the trail <br />
entrance. The gravel road was part of the old campground that previously <br />
existed at the site. In fact, you will see electrical boxes for the old campsites <br />
along sections of the trail.<br />
In the summer, after your ride, plan to cool off in the park pool. While there is <br />
no fee for park admission or riding, a fee is charged for use of the pool. Other <br />
amenities at the park include children's playground equipment and an outdoor <br />
basketball court. Pavilions are also available for a fee. Next time you ride, take <br />
the family. They can enjoy the pool and playgrounds.
From I-64 take Exit 227 (Toano) to Route 30 South heading towards <br /><br />Toano/Williamsburg. After about 1/3 mile turn right onto Old Stage Road, just <br /><br />before the gas station and McDonalds's. After about 1/3 mile, turn right onto <br /><br />Leisure Road. Follow Leisure Road into the park.
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