New River Trail State Park

If you are a history, nature, or outdoors person, include the New River Trail State Park on your vacation itinerary.

This 1,216-acre park is rich with scenic beauty and historical significance that draw visitors year-round. Established by the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1987, in collaboration with the Norfolk Southern Railway, the park's creation transformed the 57-mile abandoned railway corridor into a vibrant recreational space. The trail provides different access points, including near Galax, and traces the contours of the New River. Furthermore, the pathway's gentle grades make it ideal for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians, while three bridges and two tunnels offer exhilarating passageways. 

The New River, one of the oldest in the world, is rich with various fish that attract fly and spin anglers to its shores. Moreover, some of Virginia's record-breaking catches have been pulled from these waters. At Foster Falls, visitors can rent canoes and bikes and buy souvenirs at the gift shop.

If you enjoy history, explore the 75' tall Jackson Ferry Shot Tower that made ammunition over 200 years ago. It's perched along the New River and HI-77, offering breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding area.

The trails, historic buildings, grand river, and breathtaking beauty make the New River Trail State Park a must-visit on a Blue Ridge Parkway getaway. 

New River Trail State Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features

One of the park's top features is its 57-mile trail, once a railroad right-of-way. This trail has flat and gentle gradients, making it ideal for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, and equestrians. Imagine zipping on your bike across three former train trestles, like Fries Junction, which is 1,089 feet above the New River. There are also two tunnels to pass through, adding to the intrigue of the trail system. 

Avid cyclists will want to visit the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. The three-mile course has two easy trails and four moderate courses, making it perfect for riders of all levels. 

Historical relics like the Jackson Ferry Shot Tower are scattered along the trail. Built in 1807, it produced lead shot from the nearby Austinville Mines, melted in a kettle atop the 75-foot tower. Free tours are available, and visitors may climb to the top of the structure for picture-perfect views of the New River. 

New River Trail State Park also offers a range of educational programs to foster a deeper understanding of the ecosystems. These immersive activities enrich your visit, making it an opportunity to have fun while learning.

The park is connected to many area attractions, like Spinning Jenny Vineyard in Draper, Virginia. The winery sits near the park's trail, making it possible to combine a hike or bike ride with a wine-tasting adventure. After a day hiking or cycling, refuel at nearby Bella Italia, which showcases delicious Italian cuisine. 

When you need scenic adventures with a touch of history, all set around a breathtakingly beautiful waterway, visit New River Trail State Park.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to New River Trail State Park from Hillsville:

• Start on US-58 Business East/Carrollton Pike.
• Merge onto I-77 North via the ramp to Bluefield.
• Take exit 14 for VA-32/VA-123 toward Hillsville/Galax.
• Turn left onto VA-32 North/Farmers Market Road (signs for VA-94/Fries).
• Continue to follow VA-32 North.
• Use any lane to turn left onto US-58 West/Barrettes Road (signs for Independence).
• Take a slight right onto VA-89 South.
• Turn left onto VA-736/Beech Grove Lane.
• Continue straight onto VA-638/Pump Hollow Road.
• Turn left onto State Route 623/Breezy Ridge Road.
• Follow signs for New River Trail State Park.
• Address: 176 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, VA 24360

Cost

Visiting is free, but you must pay for a parking pass.

• Parking Fee: $7 

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.