The best walks and hikes in Carroll County

The New River Trail: Galax to Fries Junction offers a unique journey through Virginia's scenic landscape, tracing an old railway line alongside Chestnut Creek and the New River. You'll experience a mix of shaded woodlands, open views of rolling farms, and impressive engineering like the Fries Junction Bridge, all on a packed gravel surface. Keep an eye out for small cascading waterfalls and the 200-foot historic railroad tunnel that adds a touch of adventure to this long, linear route.

This 15.3-mile (24.7 km) hike, with a modest 343 feet (105 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult due to its length, taking around 6 hours and 21 minutes. Parking is readily available at the New River Trail State Park Galax Access Area. Remember to bring sufficient water and snacks, as the trail is quite remote between access points, though facilities are available at Cliffview.

This section of the New River Trail is part of a larger 57-mile state park, built on an abandoned railroad right-of-way that once served the iron industry. It parallels the ancient New River, famous for flowing north, and offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past combined with abundant wildlife and wildflowers. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a full day of hiking on a relatively flat, historic path.

This section of the New River Trail offers a delightful journey along a crushed gravel path, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. You'll follow the picturesque Chestnut Creek, with untamed mountain scenery and craggy rock cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop. The highlight is undoubtedly the Fries Junction Bridge, a massive 1,089-foot trestle that delivers expansive views where Chestnut Creek merges with the ancient New River.

Planning your visit is simple, as the trail is known for its accessibility and gentle grade. You can find parking and amenities by taking the spur trail into the nearby town of Fries from Fries Junction. This multi-use trail is suitable for hikers, bikers, and equestrians, so be prepared to share the path. The easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route, with only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes, making it a perfect short outing.

Part of the larger 57-mile New River Trail State Park, this segment follows a historic abandoned railroad right-of-way, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The New River itself is one of North America's oldest rivers, adding a layer of natural significance to your hike. It's a fantastic option for family-friendly hikes near New River Trail Gambetta, providing stunning river views without a strenuous effort.

Hike the easy 1.5-mile New River Trail from Austinville to Ivanhoe Trestle, featuring river views, a tunnel, and a historic trestle.

The New River Trail: Fries to Fries Junction offers a wonderfully accessible hiking overview, guiding you along the historic New River with continuous, picturesque views. This popular route features a mostly flat, crushed gravel path, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy the shade of trees, spot local wildlife, and pass the unique "double-shoals" section where the river's rapids create a dynamic scene. It's a moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) journey with a minimal 126 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 26 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail begins in the historic town of Fries, which provides amenities like parks and eateries. The Fries Junction itself serves as a convenient midpoint with shaded areas and restrooms, making it an excellent spot for a break. This section of the New River Trail is known for its family-friendly and dog-friendly options, making it a great choice for nearly everyone.

This trail is a prime example of a successful "rails-to-trails" project, blending natural beauty with historical context. A key landmark is the impressive Fries Junction Bridge, the longest and highest bridge on the entire New River Trail State Park. The trail's gentle terrain and continuous riverside scenery make it one of the best easy hikes near Fries, Virginia, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Hike a moderate 8.3-mile segment of the New River Trail in Virginia, featuring river views and a crushed stone path.

The High Meadow and Fisher Peak Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick nature break. This short route guides you through open hayfields and wetlands, where you can enjoy wildflowers and birdwatching, before transitioning into a peaceful forest with rock outcrops and ferns. It's a gentle stroll, ideal for families or anyone seeking a brief, accessible escape into the natural beauty of Grayson County.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, with parking available near the Blue Ridge Music Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Keep in mind that if you park at the Music Center, you'll need to complete your 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hike and be off the trails before closing time. This 12-minute, easy walk with only 70 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain is a fantastic option to combine with a visit to the Music Center, especially during its live music season.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its connection to the Blue Ridge Music Center, allowing you to blend outdoor activity with Appalachian cultural experiences. It's also part of the "Kids in Parks" TRACK Trails network, offering free activity guides to engage children with nature. This route provides a diverse experience, moving from open meadows to light forest, and is known for its flora and fauna, including rhododendrons and potential wildlife sightings.

The Fisher Peak Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through a rich forested environment, perfect for a quick nature fix. As you wander this 0.5-mile (0.8 km) loop, you'll be shaded by towering hardwoods and evergreens, with the chance to see vibrant rhododendron and mountain laurel in bloom during May. The minimal 70 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain makes it accessible for nearly everyone, providing a peaceful escape into the Blue Ridge landscape.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located right at the Blue Ridge Music Center, where ample parking is available. This easy 12-minute hike is suitable for any time of day and any season, making it a flexible option for families or those looking for a gentle walk. No permits are required, and the trail is well-maintained.

What makes this trail particularly appealing is its connection to the Blue Ridge Music Center, allowing you to easily combine a dose of nature with a cultural experience celebrating old-time mountain music. While short, the trail showcases the region's biodiversity, with groundcover like galax and ferns, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Grayson County without committing to a longer trek.

The New River Trail: Fries Section offers a delightful, easygoing hike along the historic New River, making it one of the best hiking trails near Fries, VA. You'll follow a flat, well-maintained path, often shaded, with continuous views of the water and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The trail's surface is mostly crushed stone, providing a smooth experience as you approach the notable Fries Junction, a perfect spot for a riverside rest.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available near the town of Fries. This section is known for its family-friendly hikes and is also dog-friendly, welcoming a variety of users. While generally accessible, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal considerations or repair notices, especially if visiting during off-peak times, to ensure a smooth trip.

This segment is part of the larger New River Trail State Park, built on a historic railroad bed, which explains its remarkably flat terrain and easy difficulty. The proximity to the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, provides a unique natural backdrop. The trail's gentle 251 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain over 10.5 miles (16.9 km) makes it an ideal choice for beginner hiking or a leisurely 4-hour and 21-minute stroll, offering a peaceful escape into nature.