Description
Elevation: 2300 ft.
This site marks the beginning of the New River Trail. The entire trail runs along the New River for 57 miles to Pulaski. For a large part of this journey, the trail follows the disused Norfolk & Western railroad bed, making it an ideal trail for walking, bicycling or horseback riding. The trail cuts through rolling pastures and hardwood forest clusters, crossing numerous old trestles en route. The portion of the trail in Galax follows Chestnut Creek to the New River. In this area the habitat is primarily open, composed of regenerating fields ranging from planted corn to scrubby woodland. Signs of the area’s history abound in the numerous long-standing buildings and fences popping out of the weeds almost everywhere you look. In this setting many open country bird species flourish. The habitat along the trail is also visited by a variety of warblers and raptors during spring and fall migration.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at New River Trail State Park – Galax (as reported to eBird)
- Great Blue Heron
- Black Vulture
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
- Hairy Woodpecker
- American Crow
- Carolina Chickadee
- Tufted Titmouse
- Golden-crowned Kinglet
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Bike Trails
- Fee
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
Maps & Directions
Physical Coordinates: 36.668150, -80.924720
From Independence, head east on US-58/US-221/E. Main St/Grayson Pkwy/Reserve Blvd, in approximately 14.5 miles, turn left into the parking area by the red caboose.
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.
Site Information
Managed By:
- VA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation