April breezes, warm temperatures and that mid-afternoon sunlight mean the arrival of spring in Farmville. What better time to get outside and get moving? After a long winter, it’s all about open trails, leafy solitude and the call of the wild. Whether you’re an avid cyclist ready for a challenge or a casual hiker looking for a nature walk, Farmville has a trail that’s right for you. Read on to discover some of Prince Edward County’s best footpaths and byways. Then head to Farmville for a weekend of exploration.
Easy Rambling: The Wilson Trail at Hampden-Sydney College
A little-known gem in Farmville, the Wilson Trail provides a creekside ramble through some of Virginia’s woodlands. The three-mile trail, which began as a half-mile nature walk in 1984 and was extended in 1998, offers hiking, mountain biking and exploration. Dedicated to Hampden-Sydney’s late president, Sam Wilson, the trail stands out for its solitude (lightly traveled) and ease of access (well-marked). Start at the northwest corner of Hampden-Sydney’s campus in the shaded parking lot. From there, follow Crawley Creek and Hudson’s Branch under a canopy of pines. You’ll bridge the waterways at several points, passing waterworks ruins and an old dam. Biking enthusiasts will love the mountain biking trail that bisects the main circuit — just make sure not to ride on the Short Trail, which leads back to campus and Chalgrove Lake. No bikes allowed there.
There’s no better place to relax and get back to nature than the Wilson Trail. After all, what other trail has its own Instagram account?
Nature Walk with the Kids: Sarah Terry Trail at Wilck’s Lake
Looking for a kid-friendly trail? You won’t find a better one than the Sarah Terry Trail around Wilck’s Lake, open from dawn to dusk. This loop, which is just shy of two miles, can be used by both hikers and bikers and includes a shaded lakeside path, gaggles of Canada geese and a bonus destination midway through!
Start at the parking lot on West Third Street where you’ll find benches, picnic tables and portable bathroom facilities. Have kids who love action? Enjoy a few minutes at the skate park or get in some chin-ups and balance practice at the trailhead’s outdoor fitness station. Then, set off around the lake. If it’s warm, you might spot turtles sunning themselves on the logs near the water’s edge. Along the way, trail signage points out bird species, many of which you will see during a quiet stroll. Chickadees, red-winged blackbirds, ospreys and great blue herons all call Wilck’s Lake home. A wildlife deck over the marsh allows for easy birdwatching.
As you circle out from the backside of the lake, you’ll come across Lions Park, donated by the Farmville Lions Club in 2019. With slides, climbing equipment and even a brass lion (beloved by the toddler crew), Lions Park offers the perfect snack, play and bathroom break. Pack lunch and picnic for one of the lakeside tables or simply take a break before heading back to the parking lot via West Third Street.
Pick a Trail, Any Trail: Twin Lakes State Park
Ready for an afternoon adventure? Grab some snacks and sandwiches at Pineview Bulk Food and Deli and head to Twin Lakes State Park. Fifteen minutes from Farmville and right off Route 360, the Twin Lakes recreation area offers 548 acres of wildlife to discover. In addition to a swimming area, picnic shelters, a playground, canoeing, fishing and bathroom facilities, Twin Lakes boasts over six miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Bringing the kids along? Stop in at the ranger station first to pick up the park’s scavenger hunt list — there’s a prize if you complete it! Ask about the park’s other scheduled events, which include both self-guided and ranger-led programs. Then, grab your iPhone to document your scavenger finds and pick a trail.
All trails are open to hikers. An easy loop, the one-mile Goodwin Lake trail offers water views and wildflower finds. Looking for a biking trail (or just something a bit more challenging)? Try the Otter’s Path Trail, which clocks in at just under three miles and is the only biking trail at Twin Lakes. Hugging the lake before ranging into the forest, it explores all the park has to offer, with plenty of benches and picnic tables along the way where you can re-energize with lunch or a snack.
See Virginia from the Treetops: High Bridge Trail
Before you leave, don’t miss Farmville’s claim to fame! As the longest recreational bridge in Virginia — we’re talking more than 2,400 feet! — the High Bridge Trail offers unmatched views of the Commonwealth. Originally a railway and now a Virginia Historic Landmark, the High Bridge extends for 31 miles, spanning the Appomattox River from 125 feet above the water’s surface. Built for hikers, bikers, runners and equestrians, this trail allows experts and novices alike an outdoor adventure.
Only interested in a short hike? Park at the Camp Paradise lot and walk 0.3 miles to the bridge. With picnic tables, benches, a playground and restroom facilities, you’ll have everything you need. After crossing the bridge to take in the views (and checking out the High Bridge Trail souvenirs at the trailside gift cart), explore the path that leads beneath the bridge for a quieter, waterside walk. Kids will love views of the High Bridge from below as they splash at the river’s edge!
Want to make a day of it? Rent some bikes from the Outdoor Adventure Store. Options include the traditional trail cruiser, a three-wheel cruiser, tandem cruiser, mountain bike or electric mountain bike. With the ability to rent for just a couple of hours up to a full day, you can design your perfect adventure. Grab a sandwich and dessert at Uptown Coffee Cafe a few doors down and then hop on the trail right off Main Street. Enjoy the 4.5-mile ride to the bridge as you take in miles-long views. Feel like venturing even further? Cross the bridge and ride about three more miles to the small town of Rice, Va., the site of Lee’s Retreat and the 1865 Battle of Rice’s Station, where you’ll pass by the old train depot at Rice’s Depot as well as historic houses that date back to the 1900s.
Whichever trails call to you, we hope that they’ll provide a glimpse of the magic that is our little town. Before you head out, enjoy some delicious eats at our downtown restaurants. One19, Bandidos, and North Street Press Club will impress. And don’t forget to share your pictures with us via #VisitFarmville. Happy trails!