How is the VAT the first Virginia Overland route, when the Mid-Atlantic BDR was already around? The MABDR (and similar routes) are Adventure Bike routes. While these excellent routes can certainly be (and frequently are) traveled by overlanders, these routes were created for ADV riders. The VAT is the first cross-Virginia route created specifically for overlanders.

How long is the VAT, and how long does it take to do it? The VAT is approximately 675 miles long (without optional spur routes) and can be completed in 5-7 days, depending on your pace.

What type of vehicle do I need to do it? The VAT can be completed with any vehicle that’s equipped with 4 wheel drive. The optional spur trails will require a more capable vehicle.

Is this route only for 4x4s? Can an ADV bike do it? No, it’s not only for 4x4s, and YES, ADV bikes can absolutely do it!

Why isn’t [insert trail name] included in the VAT? The trails that comprise the VAT were carefully thought out to make the route accessible to the most people. Many factors determined the route of the VAT, such as proximity to services, difficulty of trails, and seasonal closures of the trails. The main VAT route contains no seasonally closed trails.

Can I take an off-road only vehicle on the trail? The VAT connects hundreds of miles of forest service and paved surface roads, which require all vehicles traveling on them to be registered, insured, and street legal in Virginia.

What is the VAT: The Allegheny Loop? Is it included with the VAT route file? The Allegheny Loop is a 145 mile expansion of the VAT, comprised of forest service and backcountry roads that were not included in the main VAT, due to seasonal closures, and other routing considerations. It’s a separate route, and must be purchased separately.