The best walks and hikes in Montgomery County

Hike the 16.0-mile Huckleberry Trail, a challenging paved route connecting Blacksburg and Christiansburg, featuring diverse scenery.

Hike the difficult 16.0-mile Huckleberry Trail in Virginia, gaining 703 feet in elevation over varied landscapes and past historical sites.

The Gateway Trail to Jacob's Ladder to Snakeroot Loop Trail offers a challenging hike through a dense hardwood forest, providing a true 'green tunnel' experience in the warmer months. You'll navigate varied terrain, from the steep, rocky climbs of the Gateway Trail to the technical descents of Jacob's Ladder, eventually reaching a creek crossing. Keep an eye out for the rewarding viewpoint from Brush Mountain along the way.

This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) loop involves a significant 1530 feet (466 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 10 minutes. Parking is available at trailheads like the Poverty Creek Trailhead. Be mindful that this is a multi-use trail, so you'll be sharing the path with mountain bikers and horseback riders; always yield to horses and watch for downhill bikers.

Located in the Jefferson National Forest near Blacksburg, Virginia, this trail system is a fantastic option if you're seeking a strenuous workout in a natural setting. It's known for being less trafficked than some other routes, offering a peaceful escape. While dramatic vistas are limited, the autumn season transforms the forest into a vibrant display of changing foliage, making it a particularly scenic time to visit.

This loop combines several trails within the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, offering a pleasant forest walk. You'll traverse sections of the main Poverty Creek Trail, known for its gentle, rolling slopes, and experience the narrower May Apple Trail with its charming creek crossings. The route winds through hardwood and rhododendron forests, which are particularly vibrant when in bloom, providing a peaceful and varied natural setting.

Access the trail from the Pandapas Pond Day Use Area, where parking is available. This area is a hub for the Poverty Creek Trail System, so consider arriving early on busy days. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. No permits are needed for this easy 4.2-mile (6.8 km) hike.

The Poverty Creek Trail System is a versatile network, serving as the main artery for over 20 miles of interconnected trails. This particular loop, with its 376 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain and estimated duration of 1 hour and 52 minutes, is rated easy and is ideal for beginner hikers, families, or anyone looking for a quick, refreshing escape into nature. It's a multi-use trail, so you'll share the path with mountain bikers and horseback riders.

The Stiles Falls Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, leading you through varied terrain to a picturesque 40- to 50-foot waterfall. Starting on a gravel path, the route soon transitions to dirt and rock, closely following Purgatory Creek where you'll encounter lush greenery and wildflowers. This easy hiking route covers 1.5 miles (2.5 km) with 388 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 44 minutes, making it a perfect short adventure.

To plan your visit, know that the trail is on the private land of Camp Alta Mons but is open to the public from dawn to dusk; remember to sign in at the trailhead. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended for the three creek crossings and the final rocky scramble to the falls. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery for your hike.

This trail is notable not just for its natural beauty but also for its unique history, said to be named after Randolph Stiles, a Confederate sailor who met an unfortunate end here. It's a popular spot for families and beginners, providing a rewarding destination that feels much further from civilization than its short distance suggests.

The Heritage Community Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through Blacksburg's largest park, immersing you in lush natural surroundings. You'll traverse meadows and floodplains, keeping an eye out for historical sites like the Very Old Hidden Cemetery and the Old Farmhouse, all while enjoying the park's serene ambiance. This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route is perfect for a quick nature fix, taking about 47 minutes to complete with a gentle 127 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain.

Accessing the Heritage Community Park Loop is simple, with ample parking available at this extensive 169-acre park. Blacksburg's moderate climate ensures pleasant hiking conditions for most of the year, making it an ideal spot for a spontaneous outing. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for walkers, runners, and families, offering a welcoming environment for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Heritage Community Park is particularly notable for its rich biodiversity, with over 120 species of birds documented, making it a prime location for wildlife spotting, especially during fall migration. Beyond the natural beauty, the park provides amenities like picnic tables and shelters, enhancing its appeal as a community hub. It's a fantastic option for an easy, family-friendly outdoor experience in the region.

The H. L. Price Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through a tranquil agricultural landscape near Prices Fork, Virginia. Following an old wagon road alongside Walls Branch, you'll enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle sound of rushing water as you make your way to the historical grist mill site at Stroubles Creek. This 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike with only 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain is a perfect, quick escape, taking just about 17 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to this accessible trail is straightforward, as it's suitable for all skill levels and doesn't require special permits. The trailhead is conveniently located near Prices Fork, making it an easy stop for locals and visitors alike. There are no specific warnings about parking or seasonal closures, so you can generally visit at your leisure, though pleasant weather will enhance the experience.

What truly sets the H. L. Price Trail apart is its unique historical context; it traces the path of an old wagon road that once served the colonial-era community of Prices Fork, leading to a vital grist mill. While the surrounding region boasts more rugged options in the Jefferson National Forest, this trail provides a gentle, family-friendly alternative, offering a quiet connection to the area's past and natural beauty.

The Stiles Falls Trail offers a rewarding journey through diverse terrain, culminating in the majestic 40-50 foot Stiles Falls. As you hike, you'll follow Purgatory Creek, enjoying continuous views of cascading water and large boulders, surrounded by lush forests and wildflowers. The path transitions from a gravel road to grass, dirt, and rocks, providing a varied and engaging experience for hikers of all levels.

Planning your visit requires a quick check of the Alta Mons website, as the trail is on private property and may close during camps or inclement weather. You'll need to sign in upon arrival, and while the trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, verifying its status is key. Be prepared for three stream crossings over Purgatory Creek, which often involve rock-hopping and could lead to wet feet.

This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike, with 421 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 26 minutes, is a fantastic option for families. Beyond the waterfall, you'll find information plaques detailing the history of the Crockett family, who once bottled water from the area, adding a touch of local lore to your adventure.

Escape into the Jefferson National Forest on the Pandapas Pond Loop via Joe Pye and Horse Nettle, a delightful journey through varied terrain. You'll wander through lush Appalachian hardwoods, past fragrant rhododendron thickets, and along wooded singletrack. The centerpiece is the serene 8-acre Pandapas Pond, where a wooden boardwalk offers peaceful views and opportunities to spot painted turtles and other aquatic life. This trail provides a refreshing forest experience with diverse scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with accessible parking at the trailhead. Be aware that the broader trail system is multi-use, so you might encounter mountain bikers and horseback riders sharing the paths. The 3.4-mile (5.5 km) loop is rated easy, with 254 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes. It's a great option for a leisurely outing, though the Horse Nettle section does offer a sustained climb for a bit more challenge.

This area is a haven for wildlife, making it excellent for birdwatching and observing creatures like white-tailed deer, eastern box turtles, and various frogs. The trail showcases a rich variety of plant life, including flame azalea, adding seasonal color. The Pandapas Pond Loop offers a tranquil escape into nature, perfect for families or anyone seeking a gentle yet engaging hike near Blacksburg, Virginia.