Off the beaten path? For lovers of the great outdoors, that’s one of the wonderful things about living in Farmville or visiting the area! The many nearby lakes, rivers, trails and state parks beckon anyone who enjoys outdoor fun and adventure. Feel like going hiking or biking? Fishing, boating or kayaking? Challenging yourself on Virginia biggest zip line course? You’ve come to the right place!
High Bridge Trail
High Bridge Trail offers a dramatic hike or bike ride 125 feet above the Appomattox River. You can rent bikes at the Outdoor Adventure Store in downtown Farmville, 318 N. Main St., then just jump on the trail (a former rail line) a block away and embark on your 4.5 mile ride to the bridge, a mustsee attraction!
Adventure Park at Sandy River Retreat
At the Adventure Park at Sandy River Retreat, you can swing through the trees on the largest zip line and aerial obstacle course in Virginia. You’ll find a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for the whole family, including more than 60 obstacles & 20 zip Lines! Visit their website for hours, directions and pricing.
Farmville Blueway
The Farmville Blueway is a protected stream corridor maintained for recreational canoeing and kayaking. This four-mile water trail begins on the east end of Wilcks Lake at the boat ramp, crosses the lake to its west side, enters Buffalo Creek and continues down the Appomattox River to the take-out at Riverside Park. To learn more, including kayak rental options, click here or call (434) 392-7275.
Nearby Virginia State Parks
High Bridge Trail State Park is the newest addition to the Virginia State Park System. The park’s centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 125 feet above the Appomattox River. It is the longest recreational bridge in Virginia and among the longest in the United States.
Twin Lakes State Park – Swimming, camping, fishing, canoeing and hiking are popular activities at the park. There are also cabins and campsites available for rental.
Bear Creek Lake State Park – Surrounded by the 16,000-acre Cumberland State Forest. Camping, hiking, swimming, playgrounds, picnicking and an archery range are just a few of the things you can enjoy here. Cabins are available for rental for your overnight stay.
Holiday Lake State Park – A fisherman’s dream. Largemouth bass, yellow perch, crappie and bluegill are abundant in the 150-acre lake within the park. The nearby state Department of Game and Inland Fisheries delayed-harvest trout stream allows anglers to fish for brown and rainbow trout. There are also trails for hiking, biking and horse riding.
James River State Park – Canoeing, kayaking and tubing are popular river activities, and there are nearly 20 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. Overnight camping and cabin facilities are available for rental.
High Bridge Half-Marathon and 5K
Now in its 4th year, the High Bridge Half-Marathon and 5K will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016. The out-and-back course begins in Downtown Farmville at High Bridge Trail State Park Plaza. Runners will enjoy on-course support with spirit groups, live music, water stations and port-opotties. Better start training today!
Go to visitfarmville.com to plan your outdoor adventure today!