LOCATION: Farmville, VA
TRAIL DISTANCE: 32 Miles (ala carte) TRAIL HEAD/ PARKING: N Main. STreet TRAIL TYPE: In & Out TRAIL GRADE: moderate (2) TRAIL PARKING: 30 spots or more KEY WORDS: views , family friendly TRAIL INFO
What’s to like about the trail: breathtaking views, flat and easy to manage terrain, family friendly, pet friendly Why go for a hike on this trail: a view for the ages, the high bridge trail is converted from a former life as a railway that rolls for 32 miles to the hearts of bikers and hikers. Best time to go for a hike on this trail: all seasons, avoid rainy Summary: Your adventure begins at the North Main Street/ High Bridge trail state park sign in the heart of old town Farmville (the exact middle point of the 32 mile trail). This trail is for both bike and hike. This trail review is for biking. Bike: From the heart of Farmville, go to the right and head towards the High Bridge (roughly 4 miles from the trail head). The trail is beautifully managed , composed of white limestone gravel and offering width for passable traffic and groups. the trail lacks tree canopy or shade, so expect to be exposed to the elements. The High Bridge itself is a spectacular amenity to your adventure with miles wide views of the valley from a perch of 125ft up in the air! take about wow moments, your bike is now above the trees. The bridge rolls for 2400 ft. and over the Appomattox river. After the bridge you have an option to add a little spice to your bike trek by taking a right onto the camp paradise trail. The camp paradise trail is a loop, its goal is to take you down to the river and the columns of the High Bridge. The Camp Paradise trail is an off road trail, it requires the ability to downshift, navigate fast descent with multiple technical points in small wooden bridges, tight turns, and large roots. The Camp Paradise trail is 0.6 miles to the Appamattox river, where it lands on a grassy shoreline. The optics here are a serene majestic river decked and flowing between columns of high bridge itself, columns that date back to the 1800's! This trail gives the rider the impactful 125 ft. view up at the architecture and engineering feats. Once fulfilled, give a pep talk to your legs and kick into low gear because this 0.4 mile ascent will work you. It slowly slithers up to the High Bridge trail (directly across from your entrance to Camp Paradise). the remainder of this adventure is yours, with over 32 miles of farm land, rambling meadows and mountainous backdrops it just about has everything. The trail is equipped with multiple stations for water or restroom breaks. A few items to be mindful of: this trail is most popular at the bridge, slow your speed and be prepared for many walkers, kids and folks roaming about trying to fill their Instagram reel with photos. Once further out from Farmville, the trail quiets down and is quite peaceful and serene for a nice day out on the bike. HIKE ON! |