Whether your kids are toddlers, school age or teens, family road trips offer time to bond and enjoy stepping out of your usual daily routine. This fun family road trip is located about 45 minutes from Lynchburg.
Although many local families visit the Peaks of Otter on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Otter Creek isn't as well known. The easiest way to find Otter Creek is to enter the Parkway off Route 501 near Big Island. Go north on the Parkway and go past the James River Visitor Center at MP 63.6. Continue north and you'll see the Otter Lake parking area at MP 63.1 on the right hand side of the road. Park in the lot and head down the stairs.
There's a waterfall and a 0.8 mile hiking trail around the Otter Lake. Even the little ones will enjoy crossing the stepping stones - shown in the photo - across the creek. Hike up the hill and there's a little cave just the right size for a selfie with the little ones. Continue around the lake if you're adventurous, but be aware that it's easy to end up stepping into the lake as you try to cross in some spots. This is a fun trail for families and a great way to introduce your kids to hiking Central Virginia style. Enjoy!
