Media Center - Press Release

Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 07, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

New River Trail State Park opens new birding trail, launches self-guided history tour

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Ivanhoe Birding Trail Ribbon Cutting)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Ivanhoe Birding Trail)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour Ribbon Cutting)

MAX MEADOWS, Va. – New River Trail State Park is proud to announce the opening of two exciting experiences for visitors: the Ivanhoe Birding Trail and the Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour. These additions offer new opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs to connect with nature and explore the region's rich heritage.

The Ivanhoe Birding Trail provides a serene, designated route for birdwatchers of all skill levels. It’s located in a birding hot spot with more than 100 identified species, including the killdeer, great blue heron, belted kingfisher and red-bellied, hairy and pileated woodpeckers. The 2.5-mile trail system is rated easy and winds through a mix of hardwood forest, shrubby fields and wetlands.

At Foster Falls, a new 1-mile self-guided walking tour gives visitors the chance to explore the fascinating past of the once-thriving industrial Foster Falls Village. The tour features 12 stops highlighting historically significant features, like the orphanage, iron furnace, sawmill, gristmill and a 1960s N&W caboose.

The Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour was made possible through a partnership with the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program.

"We are excited to introduce these new features that showcase the park's natural beauty and history," said Park Manager Sam Sweeney. "Our goal is to provide visitors with engaging experiences that foster a deeper appreciation for Virginia's natural and cultural resources."

New River Trail State Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. Guests can complete their visit by tent camping at one of the park’s three primitive campgrounds or booking a room at the Inn at Foster Falls, which is a stop along the self-guided tour.

To learn more, please call 276-699-6778 or go to virginiastateparks.gov/new-river-trail.

-30-

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit virginiastateparks.gov.

Share this news release: