If you’re heading to Overland Expo East 2025, you should definitely take some time to explore some of the trails and camp sites in the area. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites, ranging from just up the road to regional must-see spots, with our friends at onX Offroad. Check out these route summaries and be sure to download the maps to onX before you head out. These are great places to tag a couple of days onto your trip to Overland Expo East, and be sure to tag us if you make these routes part of your trip.
Blue Ridge Sampler
This route starts within minutes of Overland Expo East, and it’s designed to give you a taste of what the Blue Ridge Mountains have to offer in a bite-sized chunk. While this route is only 40 miles long, we’d suggest you take your time as you wind up over the mountain range, passing great campsites, beautiful mountain streams, and even under the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Enchanted Creek Trail. This route ends at the James River, which makes for a great jumping-off point to explore the Appalachian Trail on foot, do some paddling, or head into nearby Lynchburg, VA, to check out the downtown waterfront.
Choose Your Own Adventure
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure and more technical terrain, then you want to head west of Overland Expo East to check out some of our favorite regional trails. This loop is just shy of 100 miles long, and it gives you everything from ridge-top roads to multiple water crossings deep in the valleys. If you’re looking to test your driving skills and your rig, the legendary Potts Jeep Trail intersects this route. Be warned, this trail is not for the faint of heart, and trail damage is likely. If tamer trails that still offer some adventure are more your style, Fenwick Mines, Broad Run, and Patterson Creek are still great options. Patterson Creek has multiple campsites, including some great creek-side accommodations.
Head to the Highlands
When we’re looking to drive a bit further from the Blue Ridge Mountains, West Virginia is one of our favorite destinations. This route hits some of our favorite spots, including Spruce Knob, The Road Across the Sky, and the Canaan Loop. The elevation and latitude of this region provide a unique landscape that should be thoroughly explored. If you’re looking to get out of your vehicle a bit, be sure to pack your hiking boots, fishing rods, and bikes. This route crosses plenty of spots that are perfect for exploring beyond your rig. If the drive to or from Overland Expo East has you heading north, this is a very worthy detour.
Still need tickets for Overland Expo East? Grab them here! We’ll see you down the trail.
