Known for her bright smile, warm greetings to fellow Trail users, and joyful spirit, Laura Luck is happiest when she’s on two wheels. One of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation’s first Capital Trail Social Ambassadors, Laura has been capturing her cycling adventures through photos and videos for years. If you follow the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation on Instagram, chances are you’ve seen one of her clips. Whether capturing the perfect Trail sunset, deer leaping across the path, sweeping views from the Chickahominy Bridge, or even dolphins swimming in the river, Laura enjoys sharing her love of the outdoors and her spirit of adventure.
We caught up with Laura to learn more about her journey, favorite moments, and what keeps her pedaling back for more.
Riding as A Social Ambassador
“Being a Capital Trail Social Ambassador is loads of fun. I get to share an activity that brings me so much joy and gets other people excited about our beautiful Trail.”
Moments, Memories & Milestones
“It’s hard to narrow down, but what I enjoy most abouty the Capital Trail is the people, the scenery, and spending quality time with my husband. The Trail is a great community and offers so many fun events and activities throughout the year. One of my favorite milestones was completing my first ride of 50 miles during Cap2Cap.”
Perfect Day: Dream Ride
“About 75 degrees, no wind, sunshine, lots of miles, and lots of smiles.”
Favorite Trail Spot
“This one is tough, but if I had to choose, sunset rides at MM 49.5 at the bench at the bottom of the hill, or catching the sunset at Curles Neck (MM 37).”
Savor Every Mile
“Don’t be in a rush, enjoy the scenery. Take plenty of water and refueling snacks. For first time rides, I think the best section is between MM 1 and the Charles City Courthouse since it’s mostly flat. Make the big hill out of Richmond a goal.”
Pedaling to the Next Challenge
“I have a goal to complete the Trail round trip. It would be my first century ride!”
Fun Trail Tidbits
Laura’s Cap Trail Shirt Slogan:
“From beginning to end - lots of miles and loads of smiles.”
Go-to Trail Snack:
“Water, energy gels, energy chews, and a banana.”
Favorite Trail Time / Season:
“Sunrise (which I don’t get to do often) and then sunset. My favorite time of year to be on the Trail is Fall.”
Laura’s enthusiasm for cycling and her love for the Capital Trail are contagious. Whether she’s chasing a sunset (and sometimes her husband), handing off gels to a fellow social ambassador (keeping each other fueled up!), or working on her first century ride (Cap2Cap 2026…? 😁), she embodies the spirit of the Trail community. Here’s to even more miles and loads of smiles both on and off the Capital Trail!
You can follow Laura’s cycling adventures on Instagram at @CyclingAdventuresWithLaura
Thank you, Laura, for inspiring us to keep pedaling, smiling, and chasing new adventures! We can’t wait to cheer you on as you crush your first century ride!
Virginia Capital Trail Faces of the Trail
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