Located in the scenic beauty of Southwest Virginia, New River Trail State Park is a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This 57-mile linear park follows an abandoned railroad along the historic New River, offering one-of-a-kind views, a rich history and a range of recreational opportunities.

Whether you’re coming for the day or the weekend, here are five activities to help you make the most of your visit to this unique park.

1. Hit the trail

Photo courtesy of Misty Prewitt

The New River Trail is a multi-use path perfect for hikers, bikers and equestrian users. Its gentle grade and well-maintained path make it accessible to all skill levels.

As you traverse the park, you’ll encounter picturesque bridges, tunnels and breathtaking river views. Cyclists and horseback riders will enjoy the long stretches of scenic riding, while hikers can choose shorter segments for a leisurely stroll.

If you’re a mountain biker looking for a little more adventure, head to the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. It has five loops with seven trails rated easy or moderate.

The park is also home to the 2.5-mile Ivanhoe Birding Trail, a birding hot spot. Since opening in 2024, more than 100 species have been identified on the trail, including the killdeer, great blue heron, belted kingfisher and red-bellied, hairy and pileated woodpeckers.

There’s no parking lot at the Ivanhoe Birding Trail, so you’ll have to walk, bike or horseback ride 1.2 miles from the park’s Ivanhoe trailhead, one of 13 New River Trail access points.

No matter how you explore the trail, your adventure can be counted toward Trail Quest.

2. Get on the water

Paddling the New River

The park’s namesake, the New River, is one of the oldest rivers in the world and a dream destination for paddlers.

Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding, the calm stretches and mild rapids cater to a range of skill levels.

If you don’t have a boat, the park offers rentals at the Foster Falls River Company, which is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from April to Memorial Day, seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and again on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Labor Day through October.

Don’t forget to log your paddling adventure for Wandering Waters Paddle Quest!

3. Toss a line

Fishing the New River

Anglers will find the New River to be a prime fishing spot, teeming with just about every major freshwater game fish in the state. In these waters, you’ll find smallmouth bass, spotted bass, largemouth bass, rock bass, striped bass, white bass, hybrid striped bass, muskellunge, walleye, black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, yellow perch, redbreast sunfish and bluegill.

The park’s numerous access points and three boat ramps make it easy to find a quiet fishing hole, whether you’re launching a boat, casting from the bank or wading into the water.

Remember to check Virginia’s fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before you cast your line.

4. Explore historic landmarks

Shot Tower

New River Trail State Park is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the region’s industrial past.

Head to Foster Falls to take a 1-mile self-guided tour of the village, which features 12 stops highlighting historically significant features, like the orphanage, iron furnace, sawmill, gristmill and a 1960s N&W caboose.

Stop by Shot Tower to learn more about how it was built to make ammunition for early settlers’ firearms more than 200 years ago. Can't make it to Shot Tower? Check out this video.

Along other sections of the trail, you’ll find remnants of old mining operations and restored rail trestles.

5. Attend a ranger-led program

Bertha Cave tour

Throughout the year, New River Trail State Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs. These interactive experiences focus on the park’s unique natural, historical and cultural features. You can find a full list of programs online, but here are some of the highlights.

• Bertha Cave Explorers: Come learn what makes cave ecosystems so delicate and special. In this adventure, you will have the opportunity to see unique formations and animals that only exist in caves.
• Driving Through History – A Van Tour of the New River Trail: Want to experience the park in a way few people get a chance to? Join a van tour.
• Caboose Tour: Look inside a 1960s rail car and learn what it was like to live on the rail and run a train. The caboose at Foster Falls is in original condition and offers an authentic view of railroad life from the late 1960s into the mid1980s.
• Wild Plants of Southwest Virginia Hike: Enjoy a ranger-led hike learning all about what's blooming and growing around you.

The park’s ranger-led programs vary by season, ensuring there's always something new to discover for visitors of all ages. Check out the events calendar to find a program during your visit.

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Complete your trip to New River Trail State Park by staying overnight at one of the three primitive campgrounds: Cliffview, Millrace and Double Shoals.

Whether you're hiking the trail, paddling the river or enjoying a peaceful evening by the campfire, the park promises a memorable experience. To start planning your visit, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/new-river-trail.