Planning a drive from 1865 Crew Shop Rd, Lynchburg to 262 Plumb Branch Rd? Whether you’re heading to a meeting, visiting family, or exploring rural Virginia, knowing the best route, estimated travel time, and potential road conditions can save you time and stress. This guide breaks down everything you need to navigate this journey smoothly—backed by real data and local insights.
Where Exactly Are These Addresses Located?
Before hitting the road, it helps to understand the geography.
- 1865 Crew Shop Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24502 is situated in the southern part of Lynchburg, near the junction of US-29 and VA-128. This area is primarily residential with light commercial activity.
- 262 Plumb Branch Rd, Gladstone, VA 22943 lies about 20 miles southwest of Lynchburg in Nelson County, a scenic, rural region known for rolling hills, farmland, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the straight-line distance between these two points is approximately 18 miles, but actual driving distance is closer to 22–24 miles, depending on your route.
What’s the Fastest Driving Route?
Most navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps) recommend the following primary route:
- Start at 1865 Crew Shop Rd, Lynchburg.
- Head south on Crew Shop Rd toward US-29 S.
- Merge onto US-29 S (toward Charlottesville).
- After ~12 miles, take Exit 114 for VA-151 S toward Roseland/Nellysford.
- Turn right onto VA-151 S (Rockfish Valley Hwy).
- After ~5 miles, turn left onto Plumb Branch Rd.
- Destination: 262 Plumb Branch Rd will be on your right.
Estimated travel time: 30–35 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Total distance: ~23.4 miles (per Google Maps, December 2025 data).
⏱️ Pro Tip: Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) near Lynchburg. US-29 can experience moderate congestion during these windows, especially near the Timberlake Rd exit.
Are There Alternate Routes? (And Should You Take Them?)
Yes—but they’re generally slower and less efficient. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Route Option | Distance | Time | Road Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary (US-29 + VA-151) | 23.4 mi | 30–35 min | Mostly highway + rural paved | Speed & reliability |
| Via VA-130 (Thomas Nelson Hwy) | 25.1 mi | 40–45 min | Narrow rural roads | Scenic drive, light traffic |
| Via US-60 W + VA-151 | 27.8 mi | 48+ min | Mixed urban/rural | Avoiding US-29 construction |
Unless you’re seeking a leisurely countryside drive or US-29 has an accident (check Virginia Department of Transportation VDOT for real-time alerts), stick with the primary route.
For authoritative context on Virginia’s road infrastructure, see the Virginia Department of Transportation overview on Wikipedia.
What Should You Know About Road Conditions?
Nelson County—where Plumb Branch Rd is located—is mountainous and winding. While VA-151 is well-maintained, Plumb Branch Rd itself is a narrow, two-lane rural road with limited lighting and occasional gravel patches.
Key considerations:
- Weather sensitivity: Fog and rain are common in the Blue Ridge foothills. In winter, ice can form quickly on shaded curves.
- Cell service: Spotty beyond VA-151. Download offline maps before departure.
- Wildlife: Deer crossings are frequent—especially at dawn and dusk.
According to a 2023 VDOT safety report, rural roads like Plumb Branch Rd account for over 60% of Virginia’s fatal crashes, often due to speeding or inattention. Drive defensively.
Step-by-Step Navigation Guide (Turn-by-Turn)
Follow these precise instructions for a stress-free trip:
- Depart 1865 Crew Shop Rd heading south (away from the Lynchburg city center).
- At the T-junction, turn right onto US-29 S (follow signs for Charlottesville).
- Stay on US-29 S for 12.3 miles—passing exits for Timberlake and Madison Heights.
- Take Exit 114 for VA-151 S / Roseland.
- At the end of the ramp, turn right onto VA-151 S (Rockfish Valley Hwy).
- Drive 5.2 miles—you’ll pass breweries, orchards, and the Wintergreen Resort entrance.
- Watch for the Plumb Branch Rd sign on your left (just past a white farmhouse).
- Turn left onto Plumb Branch Rd—the road dips sharply; reduce speed.
- After 0.4 miles, 262 Plumb Branch Rd will be on your right, marked by a black mailbox and stone driveway.
🚗 Vehicle Tip: If driving a large vehicle (SUV, truck, or RV), note that Plumb Branch Rd has tight turns and steep grades. Consider parking at the VA-151 junction and walking the last stretch if needed.
What If You’re Using Public Transit or Walking?
Unfortunately, no public transit connects these two rural locations. Lynchburg’s Greater Lynchburg Transit Company (GLTC) doesn’t serve Nelson County, and rideshare coverage (Uber/Lyft) is extremely limited beyond US-29.
Walking or biking is not recommended:
- Distance: 23+ miles
- No continuous sidewalks or bike lanes
- High-speed traffic on US-29 (55–65 mph zones)
For eco-friendly alternatives, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle in Lynchburg—many stations offer one-way rentals for regional trips.
FAQ Section
Q1: How long does it take to drive from 1865 Crew Shop Rd Lynchburg to 262 Plumb Branch Rd?
A: Typically 30–35 minutes via US-29 S and VA-151 S, covering ~23.4 miles. Allow extra time during rain, fog, or holidays.
Q2: Is Plumb Branch Rd paved?
A: Yes, but it’s a narrow, rural paved road with occasional gravel sections. Not suitable for high-speed driving.
Q3: Are there gas stations or rest stops along the route?
A: Several gas stations exist near the US-29/VA-151 interchange (Exxon, Shell). No rest areas on VA-151—use facilities in Lynchburg before departure.
Q4: Can GPS apps be trusted for this route?
A: Yes—Google Maps and Waze are accurate as of 2025. However, due to poor cell reception near Plumb Branch Rd, download offline maps beforehand.
Q5: What’s the speed limit on VA-151 and Plumb Branch Rd?
A: VA-151: 45–55 mph; Plumb Branch Rd: 35 mph (strictly enforced in some sections).
Q6: Is this route scenic?
A: Absolutely! VA-151 is part of Virginia’s Rockfish Valley Scenic Byway, offering mountain views, wineries, and historic farms—ideal for a leisurely Sunday drive.
Conclusion
Driving from 1865 Crew Shop Rd, Lynchburg to 262 Plumb Branch Rd is a straightforward 30-minute journey through some of Virginia’s most picturesque countryside—if you’re prepared. With reliable directions, awareness of rural road conditions, and a touch of local insight, your trip will be safe, efficient, and even enjoyable.
Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or WhatsApp with fellow travelers planning a Virginia road trip! And don’t forget to check real-time traffic before you go.
Safe travels—and keep your eyes on the road, not just the view! 🛣️
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