Important Notices
COVID-19 & the VBWTBefore heading out to visit a site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, be sure to check if that site has any COVID-19 policies or closures in place. This information is typically posted on a site's own website. |
Description
The estate contains 28 acres of land situated on a ridge overlooking the falls of the Rappahannock River. The staff at the visitor center can provide information regarding trails and tours of the property. Adjacent to the parking lot are several meadows that are burned or mowed periodically by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries in an attempt to prevent succession and to stimulate the growth of planted native wildflowers and warm season grasses, which provide beneficial wildlife habitat. Several trail heads lead from the garden or fields to a magnificent overlook of the Rappahannock River or into the woods, following a small stream that runs through mature woodlands. The river overlook can provide viewing of waterfowl any time of the year. Behind the mansion are additional meadows that attract bluebirds which nest in the boxes erected around the property. Flower gardens and surrounding wildflower meadows are sure to attract butterflies and wildflower enthusiasts alike.
Directions
Physical Address: 224 Washington Street, Falmouth, VA 22405
From I-95, take Falmouth-Warrenton Exit 133A. Follow U.S. Rt 17 (toward Falmouth) 1.25 miles to Washington St (just before flashing light). Turn right into Belmont.
Location & Directions
View on Google MapsSite Information
- Site Contact: (540) 654-1839, [email protected]
- Website
- Access: Grounds and Trails Free, Open Daily 10am - 5pm
Birds Recently Seen at Belmont, Gari Melchers Estate (as reported to eBird)
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Northern Flicker
- Blue Jay
- Carolina Wren
- Northern Mockingbird
- American Robin
- House Finch
- Dark-eyed Junco
- White-throated Sparrow
- Song Sparrow
Seasonal Bird Observations
Facilities
- Environmental Study Area
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Interpretive Trail
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms