James River (Blue Ridge Parkway)

The James River is a major river basin in Virginia, stretching from the Appalachian Mountains to Chesapeake Bay.  The river forms a water gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses.  There is a visitor center here, at the lowest point on the parkway, with access to historical exhibits, picnic areas and hiking trails.  Otter Creek Trail follows the creek from the visitor center to the campground.

Map:

Trails:

Canal Lock Trail

Canal Lock Trail leads from the visitor center and crosses the river on a footbridge under the parkway and leads to an exhibit at Battery Creek Lock.

Otter Creek Trail

Otter Creek Trail leads over 3 miles from the visitor center to the campground.

Otter Lake Loop Trail

Otter Lake Loop Trail makes a 1-mile loop around the lake.

Trail of Trees

Trail of Trees is a short loop starting near the pedestrian bridge that has nice views of the water gap.

Points of Interest:

Battery Creek Lock

Battery Creek Lock was used to raise and lower boats on the canal.  An exhibit about the lock and canal is at the end of Canal Lock Trail.

Blog Entries:

19-Oct-2024: James River Hikes

External Links:

National Park Service website: https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/james-river.htm