Visit Virginia’s New River Trail State Park

Virginia may not rank as one of the largest in square miles, but the geographic diversity across the state always surprises me. Over the past few years, I’ve found myself spending more time in Southwestern Virginia, a part of the state which I had explored sporadically over the years. What had I been waiting for? The mountain views are spectacular, and the opportunities for outdoor adventures plentiful. Last spring, I was lucky to discover a small slice of the New River Trail, not far off Interstate 81 in Hiwassee. It’s part of New River Trail State Park, which is a unique linear park running parallel to the New River for almost 40 miles. Fall is the perfect time to head to southwestern Virginia and checkout New River Trail State Park for yourself, and here are 3 fun things to do when you get there.
*This post was updated August, 2022.

1. Hike, Bike, Walk or Ride Horseback on the New River Trail. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the 57 mile long trail, with over half running parallel to the New River. With 12 access points to the trail, it’s easy to find a convenient place to start. To me, what makes this park unique are the numerous trestle bridges, tunnels and the historic shot tower, which was in use more than 200 years ago (1 of 3 still standing in the U.S.) Take a picture or download the trail guide before you go, to help locate restrooms and other trail amenities. Rent bikes at the Foster Falls Boat and Bike Livery weekends through the end of October.

One of several scenic trestle bridges on the New River Trail in southwestern Virginia.

2. Get on the Water. Take advantage of the miles and miles of river for fishing, kayaking or an easy-going float trip adventure. Bring your own canoes and kayaks, or rent them from the Foster Falls Boat and Bike Livery mentioned above. Or check out New River Outdoor Adventures, which offers various water adventures including tubing plus trail bike rentals. Visitors can also join the Trail Quest. Each time you visit one of Virginia’s state parks, log your visit on the State Park Adventures page. Earn colorful pins along the way after visiting 1, 5, 10 and 20 parks.

3. Camp Under the Stars. With 3 primitive campgrounds to choose from, it’s a great place to get away from the crowds. No cabin camping is available, and you should know there are no bathhouses or showers, but several of the sites have access to non-flush toilets. Camping here is probably best for those with some camping experience under their belts.

Other events at the park include tours of the Shot Tower and scheduled campfires. Check the event schedule and refine the search by park location for up-to-date event information specific to New River Trail State Park.

While you are in the area, take time to explore some of the nearby small towns. If you start your trail adventure near Draper, I would recommend stopping at Three Draper Village for a bite to eat and unique shopping.

Visit the Draper Mercantile and the Blue Door Cafe & Bakery if you are near New River Trail State Park.

Not sure what else to do in the area? Check out the list of nearby attractions, including suggested weekend itineraries like Camping, Captains and Camels or Eats, Beats and More from the Virginia State Parks website (be sure to check to make sure everything is still open as hours may have changed). For other fun things to do, browse through the list of 30 things you should do when you visit Virginia. Or plan your next state park adventure at one of these 11 state parks across the USA.