Where Every Mile Tells a Story

The Jackson River Scenic Trail is a local gem that showcases the very best of the Alleghany Highlands. Beyond its scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities, the trail reflects the area’s dedication to preserving its history while embracing progress and improving residents’ quality of life.

16 Miles of Mountain Beauty

Stretching for 16 miles through the Alleghany Highlands, the renowned Jackson River Scenic Trail follows the emerald waters of the Jackson River from Covington all the way up to Bath County. The trail features a gentle, flat grade and a finely crushed gravel surface, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Along the way, the trail passes beneath lush forests, alongside open farmland, and through picturesque mountains.

The trail is also designed with convenience and accessibility in mind. Multiple trailheads located along the route provide parking, allowing visitors to easily enter and exit the trail and choose the length of their outing. Restrooms are available at these trailheads, and the well-maintained gravel trail accommodates walkers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders alike. With its accessibility, stunning scenery, and peaceful atmosphere, the Jackson River Scenic Trail has become one of Virginia’s best recreational trails.

From Railroad to Recreation

Let's Ride Horses trail ride

The Alleghany Highlands’ railroad and industrial heritage is ingrained in many aspects of the area, including the Jackson River Scenic Trail. The trail follows the former Hot Springs Branch of the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Railway, which was completed in the late 19th century. For decades, the railway carried both passengers and freight, playing a vital role in the region’s industrial development.

As railway demand declined throughout the latter half of the 20th century, many portions of the track were abandoned. Rather than allowing the abandoned railroad to fall into disrepair, it was repurposed and transformed by Alleghany County into a recreational trail that benefits the community as a whole and honors its railroad heritage. Since then, the trail has undergone several phases of development and expansion, with the latest, Phase 5, extending it into Bath County, creating the Cedar Creek trailhead.

The creation of the Jackson River Scenic Trail demonstrates how progress and conservation can work hand in hand, transforming existing infrastructure into a destination that promotes recreation, tourism, economic growth, and a higher quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

More Than Just a Trail

The purpose of the path that is now the Jackson River Scenic Trail has evolved over time, but its importance to the Alleghany Highlands has remained. Once a driver of economic growth, it now serves as a destination for recreation, tourism, and outdoor adventure.

For residents, the trail provides a safe and scenic location to stay active and be in nature. Its flat grade and well-maintained surface make it ideal for walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding, encouraging healthy lifestyles while offering year-round recreation opportunities. The trail also plays an important role in the region’s tourism efforts. Visitors who travel to the Alleghany Highlands to experience the scenic trail also shop at small businesses and dine at local restaurants, aiding the local economy and bolstering the community. One of the biggest drivers of visitors to the trail is the annual Jackson River Scenic Trail Marathon, an event that helps to bring in hundreds of people from all over the country.
By strengthening both the local community and economy, the Jackson River Scenic Trail has become one of the Alleghany Highlands’ most treasured outdoor destinations.

Make the Most of Your Trail Adventure

Just like many other destinations in the Alleghany Highlands, the Jackson River Scenic Trail is complemented by local businesses that help enhance the visitor experience.
At the Intervale Trailhead, Alleghany Outdoors offers bicycle rentals for the trail, as well as kayaks, canoes, tubes, and shuttle services for the Jackson River. By providing equipment rentals and transportation, Alleghany Outdoors makes it easier for both residents and visitors to explore and enjoy the area’s trails and waterways.
Check out everything they have to offer: www.alleghanyoutdoors.com

Just three-quarters of a mile from the Smith Bridge Trailhead, the Cliff View Brewhouse Grill offers a variety of food and beverages, making it an ideal stop for trail goers looking for a nice meal. To reach the restaurant, simply follow South Smith Bridge Road from the trailhead, passing the Jackson River access point and crossing the bridge. The short detour offers trail users an easy opportunity to enjoy a meal without venturing too far off course.

For more information on their restaurant, go to www.visitcliffview.com

A number of additional local restaurants are happy to deliver food to the various trailheads (see image below) for a nice picnic along the trail! Check out some great “to-go” options here https://visitalleghanyhighlands.com/places-to-dine/take-out-available/