Recreation > New River Trail State Park

New River Trail State Park is 57 miles long and occupies an abandoned railroad line. The park meanders through Grayson, Carroll, Wythe and Pulaski counties in southwestern Virginia and parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles. New River is the second oldest river in the world and one of the few flowing north.

The gentle slope of the trail makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike, and ride horses. The trail is mostly wooded for its entire length and serves as a link to a number of other recreational areas. The New River is a canoe trail that is ideal for inexperienced paddlers. It is shallow with waters that are largely gentle with a few mild rapids. Portions of the park include bike, horse, and boat rentals.

There are two official campgrounds for the park. Reservations are required for both: Cliffview Trading Post (Near Galax) and Millrace Campground (Foster Falls).

Access points to New River Trail at Ivanhoe, Fries, Galax, Cliffview, Draper, Pulaski, and Foster Falls. Information and parking at Shot Tower Historical State Park; at the Fries visitors center; and at the Cliffview visitors center, near Galax.

View Map and Driving Directions

For more information regarding New River Trail State Park visit http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/new.shtml.