First Day Hikes at High Bridge Trail State Park

High Bridge Trail State Park - Camp Paradise1466 Camp Paradise RoadRice VA 23966
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Notes regarding time

11 AM meeting time for all hikes

Description

High Bridge Trail State Park Hikes (Farmville)

Jan. 1, 2025. 11 AM - 2 PM

Start your new year with constructive and invigorating action by joining us for a First Day Hike. We are offering three guided walks for this event:

On Thursday, January 1, 2026, at 11 a.m., High Bridge Trail State Park will host three First Day Hikes.

All hikes will begin near the new Visitor Center (High Bridge Station) where hot refreshments and light snacks will be provided by the Friends of High Bridge Trail State Park.

One hike will be to and from High Bridge. The out and back hike is on easy terrain and is ADA accessible. The total distance this hike covers is less than one mile.

Another hike will be 2.5 miles in length and will feature a brand-new trail section being introduced to the public. About half of this hike is on slightly uneven terrain and with some grade and change in elevation.

In addition, the annual Fido’s First Day Hike, for dogs to bring their favorite people out to the park, will follow a route as years past. Dogs must be on a physical leash no longer than 6 feet.

Access to all hikes is at the High Bridge Station parking area at 1466 Camp Paradise Road, Rice, VA 23966. The event is free and there will be no parking fee on January 1.

High Bridge Hike
Our First Day Hike will begin near our new Visitor Center, known as High Bridge Station, and will continue along the trail to High Bridge. This out and back hike is on easy terrain and is ADA accessible. The total distance covered is less than one mile.

New Trail Section Hike

This hike will be about 2.5 miles in length, with about half of it on slightly uneven terrain and with some grade and change in elevation. This hike is set to be a little longer than usual so that participants can explore a new trail below High Bridge on the Cumberland County side of the Appomattox River. It is set to be named in part for our park interpreter, Matthew Reusch, in memorium of his service to our park and community. Those who need a simpler, shorter hike on level, even ground will be accommodated with a Hike across High Bridge and back. Although this walk is not themed specifically for dogs, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.

Fido's First Day Hike
Fido's First Day Hike is for people who want to share the first day of the new year on the trail with their best canine friend. It is one of two hikes that we are offering on this nationally recognized day. All three hikes are set to start at 11 a.m. This hike for dogs and their people will cover about one mile and will take visitors down to the Appomattox River under the historic High Bridge and then back to our new Visitor Center, known as High Bridge Station.

Dogs are required to be on physical leashes that are six feet in length or shorter. Our Friends Group will have light refreshments and hot drinks for people and treats for the dogs. Be prepared for seasonal outdoor weather. Soft ground in spots is possible.

Meet for all three hikes at new Visitor Center, known as High Bridge Station - 1466 Camp Paradise Road, Rice, VA 23966

The out and back hikes are on easy terrain and are ADA accessible, with more difficult terrain on the New Trail Section portion of the High Bridge Hike (which also has an easier, shorter option). Cold temperatures and wind are possible, so please dress accordingly.

January 1 is a Free Parking Day at all Virginia State Parks.