New River Trail State Park | Pulaski

New River Trail State Park is a linear park extending 57 miles through southwestern Virginia. It follows the path of the New River and a former railway line.

Visual Characteristics

The trail is primarily a crushed stone surface, averaging 10-15 feet in width. It traverses forested areas, open fields, and follows the course of the New River, which varies in width and depth. Rock outcroppings and steep embankments are common along the river sections. The park includes several historic structures, such as the Shot Tower, constructed of brick.

Location & Access Logistics

The park has multiple access points. The main entrance is located off US Route 100 in Foster Falls, approximately 10 miles north of Pulaski, Virginia. Other access points include Draper, Pulaski, and Max Meadows. Parking is available at designated trailheads. Public transport is not available directly to the park; access requires private vehicle or taxi service.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park's corridor was established along a former Norfolk & Western Railway line, which ceased operations in the 1980s. The Shot Tower, a key feature, was constructed in 1807 for the production of lead shot. Ecologically, the park protects a section of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, and its associated riparian habitats.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding on the multi-use trail. Fishing is permitted in the New River. Canoeing and kayaking are possible on the river, with put-in points at various locations. The Shot Tower offers historical interpretation and is accessible via a short walk from the Foster Falls trailhead.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at major trailheads such as Foster Falls, Draper, and Pulaski. Shade is provided by the surrounding forest canopy. Cell phone signal is intermittent along the trail, with better reception near developed areas. Food vendors are not present within the park; visitors should bring their own provisions or utilize services in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for cycling and hiking is from spring (April) through fall (October) to avoid winter ice and snow. Mid-morning (9-11 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) offer optimal lighting for photography due to reduced glare. River access for water activities is dependent on water levels, which are generally suitable from late spring to early fall.

Facts & Legends

The New River Trail State Park is home to the historic Shot Tower, a 75-foot tall brick structure where molten lead was dropped from the top into a vat of water at the bottom to form shot. A local legend suggests that the river's name comes from its discovery by early settlers who believed it to be a newly formed river, rather than an ancient one.

Nearby Landmarks

• Shot Tower (within park, 0km)
• Pulaski County Historical Society Museum (3km South)
• Claytor Lake State Park (15km Southeast)
• Wildwood Park (18km Southwest)
• Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (40km Southwest)