GENERAL INFO: High Bridge Trail State Park is a multi-use trail ideally suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Its centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 160 feet above the Appomattox River. The bridge was built in 1853 as part of the South Side Railroad. The park is in the early stages of development. So far, 20 of the park's 34 miles are open to the public.
Visitors are strongly encouraged to be sure to bring plenty of drinking water. No drinking water is available on the trail.
AT-A-GLANCE: The pictographs directly below show park offerings. Click on those of interest or read below for more detail. Mouse-over the image for a short text description or click here to view a legend in which each pictograph's meaning is expressed.
LOCATION: High Bridge Trail is nearly 34 miles long and runs through Cumberland, Nottoway and Prince Edward counties and the towns of Burkeville, Farmville, Pamplin City, Prospect and Rice.
Entrances - Parking availability: -
PARK MAP: Click here (PDF)
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES: None. For information on availability of other parks' overnight accommodations, particular park amenities or to make a reservation, you can reserve online or call 1-800-933-PARK. Click here for park fees.
TRAILS: Hiking, bicycle and bridle trail
PARKS CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Click here to view park events, festivals, workshops and interpretive programs.
VISITOR CENTER, GIFT SHOP: None
NATURE, HISTORY PROGRAMS: Click here to view park events, festivals, workshops and interpretive programs.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER: None
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Twin Lakes State Park, Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park, Bear Creek Lake State Park, Holliday Lake State Park, Sandy River Reservoir, Briery Creek Wildlife Management Area, Prince Edward-Gallion State Forest, Lee’s Retreat Driving Tour, Longwood University Visual Arts Center, Robert Russa Moton Museum, Old Town Farmville
ACCESSIBILITY: The trail is accessible. The River Road parking lot has an accessible parking space and an accessible portable toilet. The Prospect Road parking lot also has an accessible portable toilet.
HISTORY: In December 2006, Norfolk Southern Railway Co. donated a 33.8-mile tract of abandoned railroad to the state for the establishment of a new state park. The rail line was part of the Petersburg to Lynchburg line. On Aug. 22, 2008, four miles of the linear park were opened to the public. On June 6, 2009, another 12 miles were opened to the public.
FRIENDS GROUP: Feel like lending nature a hand? This friends group of hands-on volunteers is dedicated to preserving the park and supporting its mission. Call (434) 315-0457 for more information.
