Near New River Trail
Hiawassee Bridge.
Near New River Trail
Hiawassee bridge.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

New River Trail

4.5 (4 Ratings)
A Rails to Trails route that follows the New River and crosses through four different counties.
49.9
mi
Distance
1,771
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Fall ColorsRiver/CreekViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
49.86mi
Distance
1,771ft
Elevation Gain
2,178ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
2,345ft
High Point
1,843ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The New River Trail is a hard packed gravel doubletrack that follows the old route of the North Carolina Branch of the Norfolk & Western Railroad from Galax to Pulaski. Along the trail, you'll pass over several old railroad trusses and under two tunnels. There are several access points and restrooms along the trail. Be cautious as the trail is shared with other hikers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders. If you are interested in touring/backpacking, the state park offers four primitive campgrounds: Cliffview, Millrace, Baker Island and Double Shoals. For accurate information on each campground visit the Virginia State Parks website.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Contributors
J.d. McNoldy