The Mendota Trail is a rails-to-trails project that will eventually span the former Southern Railroad corridor between Bristol, VA and Mendota, VA, a total of 12.5-miles.

At present there are two segments. The northern mile-long segment runs from Mendota to the North Fork of the Holston River. An additional 5.3 miles runs from a trailhead on Island Road in Bristol to a large parking area in Benhams.

The hiking-biking trail spans tranquil countryside and forests on gentle grades comparable to nearby rails-to-trails favorites.

The Mendota Trail is open from dawn to dusk.

Mendota Trail Access Points:

• Bristol Trailhead – Beside 1788 Island Rd
• Benhams – Across from 7741 Rich Valley Rd
• Mendota Trailhead – Across from 2421 Mendota Rd