New River Trail State Park

116 Orphanage Dr , Max Meadows, VA 24360

Hours

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Park Office open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Check their website for updates on trail renovations and closures.

Cost

Visiting is free, but you must pay for parking - Cash, check or credit-card can be used at self-pay lots.

Parking Fee: $7

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

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About

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

Local Tips

Bring plenty of water, as refill stations may be scarce along the trail.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for optimal traction and support.
Visit mid-week to avoid crowds and for a more peaceful experience.
Have a picnic at the tables or pavilion at Foster Falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should someone put on a one-day itinerary along the Blue Ridge Parkway in southwestern Virginia?

If you only have one day to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, we have a top-notch recommendation for you: Primland Resort and Spa. This isn’t just an ordinary resort; it’s a destination that has been carefully curated to offer an unparalleled experience, as evidenced by its impressive 4.8-star Google rating.

Primland Resort and Spa is located right in the heart of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not just about the location, though; it’s about the experience. From the moment you step foot onto the property, you’re enveloped in a blend of rustic charm and refined luxury that makes for an unforgettable visit.

The resort offers a wide array of activities tailored to suit all interests and age groups. For the golf enthusiasts, there’s the award-winning Highland Course, ranked as the #1 course in Virginia by Golf Digest. For the nature lovers, there are horseback riding and ATV tours that let you explore the beautiful surroundings in a fun and engaging manner.

But perhaps what truly sets Primland apart is its commitment to wellness. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul—because your well-being is a priority here. Imagine ending your day with a soothing massage or a peaceful yoga session under the stars at their observatory.

And let’s not forget about the culinary delights. With multiple eateries serving up a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, your taste buds are in for a treat.
So, if you’re looking for a one-day itinerary that seamlessly combines adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delights, Primland Resort and Spa is the place to be. Don’t just take our word for it—we invite you to experience it for yourself.

How far away is the New River Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The New River Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. According to sources like dcr.virginia.gov, traillink.com, and roadslesstraveled.us, the trail spans an impressive 57.5 miles, starting from E Main St/VA 99 & Xaloy Way in Pulaski and ending at T George Vaughan Jr Ave in Galax.

This trail isn’t just about distance, though. It’s about the journey. As you embark on this trail, you’ll find yourself meandering through four counties and the city of Galax, as per blueridgeparkway.org. The trail parallels the historic New River for 39 scenic miles, offering a unique blend of forested mountains and pastoral valleys that create a visual feast for the eyes.

But the benefits of this trail extend beyond its stunning landscapes. The New River Trail State Park is a hub of activities, with options for biking, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

When is the changing of the leaves on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The changing of the leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking event that attracts countless visitors each year. This natural spectacle begins at the highest elevations in late September, soon after the first calendar days of fall.

The timing and intensity of the color change can differ from year to year and are affected by varying factors such as temperature and rainfall. However, the general pattern is that leaves change color at higher, cooler elevations first. The elevation along the Parkway ranges from over 6,000 feet at Richland Balsam in North Carolina down to just 649 feet near James River in Virginia.

This beautiful autumn leaf show typically starts in early October in the highest elevations above 5,000 feet and gradually descends to lower elevations by late October or early November. In fact the Farmers Almanac, projects peak fall color for the inland portion of Virginia to occur between October 12-28.

So, if you’re planning a trip to witness the stunning fall colors of the Blue Ridge Parkway, aim for these dates. But remember, the beauty of nature is unpredictable and can surprise you at any time. So, pack your camera and hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway.