Cycling is a major focus in Dobson: the Surry Scenic Bikeway includes more than 500 miles of officially designated bicycle routes. One specific connection is the Dobson-Elkin Loop. It connects the two towns, and cyclists can start the loop in either Dobson or Elkin. This lets you factor your preferred starting point into your plans.
Bike Routes and River Trails
The trails at Fisher River Park vary in surface, length and route. The paved loop is 1.5 miles long and runs along the river and through the park. Additional connector trails extend the total distance to more than 2 miles. There is also a 6.3-mile wooded mountain biking trail that can also be used for hiking and trail running. This gives you a choice between a paved loop and a longer, wooded trail with other uses.
The park also has its own kayak launch on the Fisher River, which kayakers and canoeists can use. Those who would rather spend time outdoors on the water than on a trail will find a different activity option here than on the park trails.
Wine Tastings and Local Cuisine
Dobson is the birthplace of the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA), North Carolina’s first federally recognized wine-growing region. Local wine tastings offer a range of experiences: Shelton Vineyards offers classic and select tastings at its spacious tasting bar. Grand Reserve and Signature tastings are available for groups of two or more by reservation. The winery also has an amphitheater, a gift shop and picnic areas.
At Haze Gray Vineyards, knowledgeable staff lead guided tastings. Its regular events include food trucks, live music, painting classes and special wine pairings; the program may vary seasonally. Surry Cellars offers tours by appointment only, Tuesday through Friday, when Surry Community College is open.
At Stony Knoll Vineyards, both the tasting room and the covered brick outdoor veranda overlook the winery’s own landscaped vineyard, set against a mountain backdrop. For a local culinary stop, the Surry Sonker Trail lists Harvest Grill at Shelton Vineyards in Dobson as one of its five stops. Trail participation and menus may change.
Parks and Seasonal Offerings
Dobson Square Park brings several amenities together in one place: it has the only splash pad in Surry County, as well as a bandstand, playground, walking paths, picnic shelters and restrooms. Farmers markets are held there on Thursdays from April through November; this recurring schedule may change seasonally.
The Farm also offers seasonal activities. In fall, from mid-September through October, offerings include a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, hayrides, sunflowers and apple cannons; the listed dates may vary. Christmas at The Farm features hayrides to large light displays and a walk-through light maze. Dates and programming may also change.
MacJordan Eventing offers private 45-minute riding lessons for people aged three and older. Since lesson availability should be confirmed, it is best to inquire directly when planning.
Getting to Dobson
If you are arriving via the Blue Ridge Parkway, exit at milepost 199.4 and continue to Exit 93 on I-77 South. Since road conditions can change, check them before your trip.
Explore more destinations: Pinnacle, Mt Airy, Elkin
For the main travel overview: Surry County.
