Close to a college town, this rail to trail is long, relatively unimpeded, and offers river views…read more There were multiple parking lots at what is currently the south end of the trail, as well as signage indicating that some of the railway had been sold to buyers who were not part of the trail, so it kind of starts midway along the rail line. Regardless, it is a longer trail than I had time for and the part I completed was easily worthwhile.

Southern end -…read more Good surface. RR wide. Some restrooms Only problem is trail maps are mis-leading. Caldwell is beginning but is MP 3, not 1 Easy access - well signed Few road crossings

This is a great waterfall hike. It's one of the bigger waterfalls that I've seen on East Coast and…read moreit's great because we're situated. It feeds into a small recreational swimming hole area. Highly suggest changing into a bathing suit and doing the approximate 2 mile hike to the falls. On the way, you'll see a lot of smaller falls and some spots where you can go and splash your feet in the water. I came after a spotty storm and the trail was a little bit wet so it'd be good to bring some grippy shoes. There are a couple of stones and rocks and roots to wander through. It's definitely worth a trip and the three dollar parking fee charge since it's a national car unless you have a national park pass that you can leave on your dash the national Park pass is roughly 60 or $70 per year unless you're military or have a disability and you can get it for free. There are a couple of bathrooms at the start of the trail and nowhere near the Falls to change

Cascade falls was a lovely hike, especially on a hot day. I have lived in the area for going on…read morefour years now and have not made it to the Cascades until now. The hike is not very hard and suitable for families. The swimming hole at the falls is fantastic, although very cold depending on the time of year. Overall, it was a great experience, and I'll definitely be coming back!

This river gradually drains into the James, where it meanders downstream into the Richmond…read morewaterfront before becoming and estuary and ultimately entering the Chesapeake Bay. This is a strange thing to think about standing in this small college town with its military history. The park has some parking both on the island and before you get there, as well as some decent restroom facilities. It is an area that looks like you could wade or swim across under some conditions, and there were people and dogs swimming. The nature trail is a short loop, but a nice resource for the community to have. Construction at the university made access a little difficult at the time of my visit, but certainly still possible.

This is a wonderful park great for walking having a picnic and enjoying the river sounds and views…read moremaybe even a BBQ. Location doesn't have swings etc. Its just a wide open space with trees near the river. The weekends are a little hectic if their is a game going on.

Stopped for a short hike on our road trip. Beautiful views of the river along the rim trail and…read morethe castle rock trail has some really cool cliffs and rock walls of you don't mind a little more difficult terrain.

I really enjoyed the view. WV is beautiful I never knew about this place. I've been to the Grand…read moreCanyon it is awesome but wv has so much to offer as well. It's a must see along with the new river gorge bridge.

Very pretty scenery. Would recommend a bunch!! Love the…read morelittle waterfalls, then the huge lake/pound? The cabins you can stay in are placed in some very pretty woody areas. The swinging bridge was super fun!

Great walking trail. Scenic look outs. Beautiful waterfalls and old mill with a tour- Grist Mill…read more Small shop with souvenirs and restrooms.

Its a peaceful stroll along the Maury. A lovely, flat trail that winds along the river with scenic…read moreviews, wildflowers, and the occasional curious cow. It's well-maintained and perfect for a relaxed walk (dog friendly), jog, or bike ride. Easy to access, quiet, and full of charm. Definitely a local gem worth revisiting.

The chessie trail is, in my opinion, one of the best trails on the east coast. It is a gravel trail…read morethat is perfect for running/jogging/biking/walking as it remains flat for the entirety of the trail. I've run on the trail close to a hundred times, and it never disappoints. The views you see here are unmatched, and I recommended it to anyone visiting Lexington, VA.

Very cool playground, especially after reading the backstory. Built in 4 days by local volunteers,…read moreit is a massive playstructure. My kids both loved it and found plenty to keep them busy for an hour outdoors, not always the easiest thing to do. I wish we had something like this in my neighborhood, we'd go on a weekly basis.

Built in 5 days with the help of 1,000 local people and college students, owned and maintained by…read morethe City of Lexington. Still in great shape after more than 30 years of service. Plenty of seating for adults and a covered picnic table. Designed by local school kids with the help of Leathers and Co. Lots of imagination and running space for people of all ages to play.

Douthat is my 35th Virginia State park visit. Saturday I hiked 13 miles, just under 30,000 steps! I…read moreended up on trails that still had fog coverage! I started at Stony run and linked some trails together so I would circle back to the car. The trail started with ground rock, and after 7 creek crossings and some elevation, it turned into rocks and roots. Once I got up higher to the switchbacks, I'd been hiking two hours. It just kept going! At some places (Tuscarora point and Blue Suck) the path is on the edge of the mountain. If you trip, you're gone! I was happy to see each Route Marker Helped me to know my plan was working. Im going the right way. At one junction I asked Gemini the elevation I've claimed from Stony run trail head to the sign Im at right now. The answer was 1,740 feet. They had 2 waterfalls. I saw one on my way up and another on my way down. It was a tricke of water but it helped notate where I was on the map. From there, it was only were big large rocks to navigate for a good mile. Takes your energy away. I was so happy to see my car at the end! What an adventure. I did drive through the park before hiking and stopped at the camp store for a t-shirt for my grandson. I walked in shouted good morning. No response. Maybe she didn't hear me. I looked around and her younger, co worker came in. This woman started massive gossip about the girl who finally just quit. She dogged this girl the whole time I was there. Checked me out when buying my shirt and never said a word. I asked the younger girl if there was still a restaurant here and she was answering to say yes but its take out but that other woman snapped, "Its closed!" She needs to find happiness. Clearly she's not a happy person, at least, at work. I thanked the young girl and left. Super awesome park! I loved it!

Well-maintained and updated campgrounds! The friendliest and most helpful rangers! Simple…read moreamenities, yet so many options to relax and use the park Do not leave without watching Ranger Shelly perform her tricks!

Gorgeous State Park and one of my favorites since I was a kid. My parents used to take us camping…read moreand fishing here. My brothers and I used to love to swim in the streams and ride our bikes. I love to go here and hike with my own kids. The area is so quiet and so lovely, extremely peaceful. I always leave feeling refreshed and alive. I love to walk calmly through the forest and think. When I was a kid, I would pretend to be an indian or a pioneer, sometimes an escaping captive fleeing through the woods. I have always had an overwhelming creative imagination. The park is lovely to camp in and great locations for fishing. No huge waterfalls but still nice small ones. If you are like me, you just enjoy being outside!!!