Interesting stuff from Beth Weisbrod, Executive Director of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation:

Picture this: You decide to spend a Saturday enjoying the Virginia Capital Trail. You park at the Jamestown Settlement and head towards the trailhead across the street. What’s this? A place to rent bikes and kayaks? And a store with snacks (and worms) and cold drinks?

Welcome to Eco Discovery Park, a new operation within two pedal strokes of the eastern end of the Virginia Capital Trail. Steve Rose, owner of Williamsburg Event Rentals, recently leased the marina from James City County and in addition to renting boat slips, he now rents bikes, kayaks, canoes and SUPs (stand up paddle boards).

When I was there recently, he was helping a family from New York gear up for a ride on the trail. Astride four new and sturdy Trek touring bikes, plus a trailer with two toddlers inside waiting for things to get exciting, this family was ready for some adventure.

Steve says business has been steady all summer, both for watercraft and bikes. Recently, he rented kayaks to a convention group staying in Colonial Williamsburg who wanted to get up close to the history and wildlife of the James River. The park also sees a steady stream of locals who drop by and discover riding bikes around Jamestowne Island is a LOT of fun. “They’ve always wanted to do it, and seeing how easy it is to get there from here, decide it’s finally time.”

The marina is located at the end of the Colonial Parkway, across from the Jamestown Settlement, adjacent to the Virginia Capital Trail and at the entrance of Jamestowne Island. So whether someone is looking for an extended cycling excursion on the Virginia Capital Trail, a quick and easy sight seeing outing around the quiet and cycling friendly island, or maybe even a bike-paddle combo for the full land-sea adventure, this is the spot.

Steve plans to add a cafe so customers can fuel up before or after their activities. A little riding, a little paddling, and maybe a lot of eating. It sounds like the makings of a perfect day. Check it out and see what you think.

Cheers to you, Steve!