Flowing across the Appalachian Plateau, the New River is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the oldest in North America. How did the river get such a name? Various Native American tribes supposedly named it "River of Death" and it has also been called "Wood's River". It is documented that Colonel Abraham Wood, a fur trader, sent men to explore the outreaches of Virginia. When they came across this river they had never seen before, they wrote on their map, "new river" which was never edited.
The New River is one of the few rivers in the world that flows north. Starting near Blowing Rock, North Carolina, flowing 324 miles through southwestern Virginia, it eventually joins the Gauley (pronouced golly) River in West Virginia. and soon becomes part of the Kanawha River. however, it's journey doesn't end there. What began in the foothills of North Carolina, flows through the Ohio River to the Mississippi River, eventually empyting 110 days later into the Gulf of Mexico.
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New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the city of Galax. The trail's gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback. The park's Foster Falls area offers canoe and bike rentals; boat launches; gift shops; and a horse arena. Fishing is popular, and primitive campsites are available in designated areas. The park's Hoover Mountain Biking Area is also popular with those seeking extra adventure. There are access points to the trail at Allisonia, Chestnut Yard, Cliffview, Dannelly Park (near Galax), Draper, Dora Junction (near Pulaski), Foster Falls, Fries, Galax, Gambetta, Hiwassee and Ivanhoe. Horse trailer parking is available at Allisonia, Austinville, Cliffview, Dora Junction, Draper, Fries, Ivanhoe and the Mark E. Hufeisen Horse Complex.
This cache is located within the boundaries of New River Trail State Park and placed with permission from Park Management. Parking fees apply, day searching only, please CITO and Leave No Trace