Description
Elevation: 2397 ft.
This boat landing is located next to the mouth of Bridle Creek, creating a variety of habitats in a small area. The river in this area is quite shallow and not as broad as other nearby boat ramps. Northern rough-winged and barn swallows frequent these waters, perching themselves prominently on dead snags along both banks. The sycamore typical of these riverbanks are not as large as at some of the other boat ramps but the yellow-throated vireo and warbler don’t mind. These residents are still happy to chase caterpillars along the sycamore branches, while downy woodpecker trill from deep within their crowns. Along the nearby Bridle Creek, the bushes are stuffed with singing song sparrow and indigo bunting. Ebony jewelwing sparkle as they flit along the stream’s banks, maintaining their distance from the main river.
Wildlife Sightings
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- Site Viewable Only By Boat
- Boat Ramp
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 3436 Gold Hill Rd, Independence, VA 24348
From Independence, head west on US-58/W. Main/Wilson Hwy, turn left onto SR-711/Battlefield Dr, turn left onto SR-601/Bridle Creek Rd/Gold Hill Rd, and the parking area is on the left just after the bridge.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.