The view of the river from New River Trail State Park in the winter

Winter transforms New River Trail State Park into a quiet, scenic wonderland perfect for those who enjoy the crisp air and peaceful beauty of the season.  

The 57-mile linear park parallels the historic New River for 39 miles, offering plenty of opportunities to embrace the outdoors, even in the colder months.

Here are five activities to enjoy this winter at New River Trail State Park. 

1. Winter hiking 

New River Trail State Park offers year-round adventure 

Bundle up and hit the trail. Since the trail follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way, it has a gentle slope, making it great for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. 

With the leaves down, views of the New River open up in ways you can’t experience during the warmer months. The stillness of winter makes spotting wildlife and appreciating the park’s natural features even more rewarding. 

The park also offers an all-terrain wheelchair for visitors with mobility impairments. It’s available for free daily use along roughly 20 miles of the trail. To learn more about reserving the all-terrain wheelchair, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/all-terrain-wheelchairs.  

2. Biking the trail 

You might find the trail is more secluded in the winter months

If you don’t mind a brisk ride, cycling is a great way to cover more ground and take in the park’s winter scenery. The trail’s crushed stone surface is suitable for most bikes, and the cooler temperatures make for a refreshing workout. 

If you’re looking for more of an adventure, check out the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. It has five loops with seven trails, which are rated easy to moderate. 

3. Birdwatching 

The Ivanhoe Birding Trail bird tracking board

Winter brings a different set of birds to the New River Valley. Look for waterfowl along the river and raptors overhead. With fewer leaves on the trees, it’s often easier to spot and identify birds as they move through the bare branches. 

While anywhere along New River Trail is great for birding, the Ivanhoe Birding Trail is a go-to for birders. More than 100 species have been identified on the 2.5-mile trail. It’s rated easy and winds through a mix of hardwood forest, shrubby fields and wetlands. 

To access the Ivanhoe Birding Trail, you’ll need to walk, bike or horseback ride 1.2 miles from the park’s Ivanhoe Trailhead. 

4. Photography 

The barn at Foster Falls provides a great photo opportunity 

From frosty riverbanks to morning light filtering through trees, winter provides a unique landscape for photographers. The lack of summer crowds means you can take your time setting up shots of bridges, tunnels and historic sites along the trail. 

5. Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour 

The Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour route 

The Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour is a 1-mile walking adventure that gives you the chance to explore the park’s rich history and industrial past at your own pace. 

Foster Falls was once a bustling ironworks community, and remnants of that remain for you to discover, including late 19th-century commercial and industrial structures. The tour features 12 stops highlighting these historically significant features, like the orphanage, iron furnace, sawmill, gristmill and a 1960s N&W caboose. 

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Tips for safe winter recreation 

Dressing warmly is essential when it comes to exploring the trail in the winter 

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to exploring the outdoors during the winter. To keep your adventure safe and enjoyable: 

• Dress in layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers and a windproof outer layer. Don’t forget gloves and a hat to conserve body heat. 
• Watch the trail’s surface: Frost, ice or wet leaves can make paths slippery, so wear sturdy footwear with good traction. 
• Stay hydrated: It’s easy to forget in the cold, but drinking water is just as important in winter as in summer. 
• Check the weather: Conditions can change quickly in the mountains and along the river valley, so know the forecast before you go. 
• Let someone know your plans: Especially in less busy winter months, tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you expect to return. 

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Whether you’re hiking, biking, birding or simply enjoying the calm of a winter day, New River Trail State Park is the perfect destination in every season. Don’t let the cold keep you indoors. Winter might just become your favorite time to explore this historic park. 

Start planning your visit today at www.virginiastateparks.gov/new-river-trail.