Buchanan Swinging Bridge – Mills Gap Overlook loop from McCartney Family Cemetery

Buchanan Swinging Bridge – Mills Gap Overlook loop from McCartney Family Cemetery

Hard

2.8

(12)

riders

Buchanan Swinging Bridge – Mills Gap Overlook loop from McCartney Family Cemetery

05:50

113km

1,980m

Road cycling

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: August 7, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Blue Ridge Parkway

Jefferson National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

44.1 km

Buchanan Swinging Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

This is the only swing bridge to cross the James River. It was originally constructed in 1851. Back then, each person had to pay 5 cents to cross and 5 …

Tip by

53.5 km

Mills Gap Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

At Milepost 91.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mills Gap Overlook views out over the James River Valley. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the parking lot, so you can expect …

Tip by

53.5 km

View of the James River from Mills Gap Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

At Milepost 91.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mills Gap Overlook views out over the James River Valley. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the parking lot, so you can expect …

Tip by

54.5 km

Lots of viewpoints along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

This stretch basically spans from the Sharp Top Overlook to the Great Valley Overlook. There are pull-offs left and right along the roadway, and there are also some sections where …

Tip by

113 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types