Dobson: Discover Wine, Bike Trails, and Parks

Explore Dobson through three specific interests: cycling, wine, and parks. When planning, consider the connection between Dobson and Elkin, the different trails in Fisher River Park, and the conditions for individual tastings and seasonal events.

Cycling between Dobson and Elkin

The Surry Scenic Bikeway includes more than 500 miles of officially designated cycling routes. One specific loop is the Dobson-Elkin Loop: it connects Dobson with Elkin, and cyclists can start in either town.

Trails and water at Fisher River Park

Kayakers and canoeists can use the dedicated ramp on the Fisher River. The paved loop trail runs 1.5 miles along the river and through the park; additional connecting trails extend the total distance to more than 2 miles. There is also a wooded 6.3-mile mountain biking trail that can also be used for hiking and trail running. This gives you the choice of a paved loop with connecting trails or a longer trail with multiple uses.

Parks and seasonal events

Dobson Square Park has the only splash pad in Surry County. The park also has a bandshell, playground, walking paths, picnic shelters, and restrooms. Farmers markets are held there on Thursdays from April through November. Seasonal dates may change, so check the current market schedule before visiting.

Wine tastings and regional winemaking tradition

Dobson is the birthplace of the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area, North Carolina’s first federally recognized wine region. Stony Knoll Vineyards has a tasting room and a covered brick outdoor veranda. Both offer views of the specially designed vineyard grounds against a mountain backdrop.

Shelton Vineyards offers classic and select wine tastings at its spacious tasting counter. 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. Check the latest operating details before visiting.

At Haze Gray Vineyards, knowledgeable staff lead guided tastings. Events are held regularly, including food trucks, live music, painting classes, and special wine pairings; the program may change seasonally. Tours at Surry Cellars are available by appointment only, Tuesday through Friday, when Surry Community College is open. Because the arrangements vary, it makes sense to plan tastings and events according to their specific format.

There’s also a specific stop for a taste of local cuisine: Harvest Grill at Shelton Vineyards in Dobson is one of the five stops on the Surry Sonker Trail. Participation in the trail and menus may change.

Getting here via the Blue Ridge Parkway

If you’re arriving via the Blue Ridge Parkway, take the exit at milepost 199.4 and drive to exit 93 on I-77 South. Check road conditions before you travel.

Explore more destinations: Pinnacle, Mt Airy, Elkin

For the broader travel overview: Surry County.