Far from the popular Fossil Beach and Woodstock Pond of York River State Park’s main day use area lays the Riverview Overlook.

This secluded shoreline is a favorite destination of horseback riders and mountain bikers who ride the Backbone and Riverview trails. Few hikers and paddlers get to see this lonely beach because of its distance (just under 8 miles on foot or 3 miles by water). 

The trail less traveled

To encourage park guest to explore the park beyond the usual haunts, we are inviting people to take up the Riverview Rendezvous challenge to hike, or paddle to this overlook on May 31st!

The trip officially begins at 10 a.m. Saturday May 31, 2014

Meet at the amphitheater with a brief interpretive overview of the journey. Paddlers will head down to the canoe/kayak launch on Taskinas Creek while hikers will be led onto the Backbone Trail. Horseback riders and mountain bikers can also join in the adventure.  When arriving at the Riverview Overlook, participants will collect a raffle ticket and return to the amphitheater. When all have arrived, we will have four drawings (paddlers, hikers, bikers, and horseback riders) for a framed 10”x14” image of the York River shoreline autographed by our photographer/ranger, John Gresham.

The prize photograph: Confluence Fall

The hike is free with the $4 per vehicle parking fee. Paddlers bringing their own boats only have to pay for parking. Rental fees apply for those renting our watercraft. Kayaks are encouraged as the paddle will take place in the broad York River where wind direction and speed may change without warning. The paddle will be canceled if whitecaps are present. As this is a strenuous program, we do not recommend bringing small children on either the hike or paddle. Bring water and snacks and leave no trace as there are no recycle or trash bins at Riverview.  

Paddle to the further reaches

So, if you feel up to an excursion beyond the typical park experience, join us for the Riverview Rendezvous!  

Directions to York River State Park can be found here. 9801 York River Park Road, Williamsburg, Va. 23188. 

Drive Time: Northern Virginia, two to three hours; Richmond, one hour; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, one hour; Fredericksburg, two hours; Roanoke, five hours. Call us at 757-566-3036 or email us here with any questions.