Westmoreland State Park offers a nice variety of hiking experiences due to the surprisingly different terrain within the 1,321 acres of this Virginia State Park.

Eight hiking trails to cliffs that soar 200 feet above the Potomac River, sandy beaches, tidal marshes and hardwood forests make for a relaxing experience or a fun workout.  

A deer family watches as hikers pass by on a trail at Westmoreland State Park

Hopefully, along the way you will see some of the residents that make Westmoreland State Park their home, year-round and seasonally. You never know who you might meet along the way.

1. Rock Spring Pond 

Mountain Laurel blooming at Rock Spring Pond

Perfect for novice hikers, parents with a baby stroller or small children on bikes. The lush forest and cool shade provide the perfect setting along the way to the beautiful pond. There are nice comfy benches to watch to world go by in this very peaceful place. In the spring the Mountain Laurel (yes that’s right Mountain Laurel) are in full bloom and absolutely gorgeous. 

In the fall the hard wood trees show off the vibrant colors of their autumn leaves. And, it is ADA accessible too! I absolutely love this place for a quiet spot to sit and reflect.

Rock Spring Pond is really something to see in the fall

If you like more hike, you can also access Rock Spring Pond from Laurel Point Trail. The trail head at located the parking area near the boat launch. It gives you a nice workout going up. Or, if you can access if from State Park Road. All of these interconnecting trails are anywhere from .6 of a mile to 1.5 miles and easy to moderate.

2. The Conservation Corps Fitness Trail

Fun on the Fitness Trail

Interested in hiking and working out on equipment too? This trail offers both! You can stop on 7 stations along the way that have some interesting equipment like rowing, chin up bar and monkey bars. If you don’t care to hike or do the fitness equipment you can ride your bike on the 1.8 miles trail that is perfect for a family with young children. 

The trail meanders in the trees next to the main road to the park and is considered easy.

3. Hiking with a Reward 

Fossil finds!

Hiking is a reward in itself. The way it makes you feel, the amazing things you can on the trail. Westmoreland State Park offers another kind of reward for this particular hike. Fossils!

If you are skilled enough, or even if you are not, you may find a treasure and the end of Big Meadows Trail. Just a short ½ mile hike down Big Meadows Trail to Fossil Beach to search for your reward. As with most rewards, you may have to do a little work! Stop by the Visitor Center for everything you need to assist you with your journey. The trail, while only a half-mile long, is very steep, and sometimes a little damp so you will want to wear appropriate shoes. However, make sure to bring surf or beach shoes along to walk the beach and water’s edge.

Don’t forget something to carry your treasures. No digging allowed please, especially in the cliffs. Sand sifters (like a pasta strainer) are a must.

4. Turkey Neck Trail 

Overlook from observation platform

Love wetlands and wildlife watching? This easy to moderate hike, 2.3 miles, to an take you through hardwood trees, to wetlands ending up at a platform overlooking the marsh  Who know what creatures you may see along the way and spy from the deck, don’t forget your binoculars!

5. Beach Trail - Two Great Ways

The Beach Trail is 200 feet straight down!

Parking lot access or take the stairs. The beach trail can be accessed a few different ways. The trail head at the top of the cliffs, not far from Helen and Tayloe Murphy Hall, or the parking lot at the beach. Just remember the stairs that take you up and down are 200 feet from top to bottom. Run up and down those are few times…cardio done!

You can also park in the beach parking lot for a more leisurely stroll along the beach. Either way you may see eagles, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, and seasonal birds like ducks and Osprey. There is also a chance you may find a fossil or two.   

Great Blue Heron on the Beach Trail

Keep in mind that many of the hiking trails intersect and crossover each other making it as long or as short as you would like. There are trailheads and small parking areas located on the main road access road to the park as well as larger parking lots at the beach and visitor center.

BONUS

And of course, you are welcome to bring your four-legged best friend

As long as he is on a leash, six feet for less

For a trail map please click here or stop by the Visitor Center Monday-Sunday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or call (804) 493-8821.

Location

Westmoreland State Park is located about 6 miles from the historic Town of Montross and about 30 minutes from Colonial Beach. For a Google Map please click here or visit our website here. 

This park also offers fantastic overnight accommodations as well as many other amenities, click here for more information.