The best walks and hikes in Bedford County

Yes, there are over a dozen curated hiking routes in Bedford County. The trails range from easy lakeside paths to strenuous mountain climbs, offering a good variety for all fitness levels. The region is particularly known for its trails within state parks like Blue Knob and Shawnee.

For a gentle and scenic walk, the Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from La Vale is a great choice. It's a relatively flat, 2.8-mile (4.6 km) trail that's perfect for a relaxed outing. Another excellent option is the Red Oak Lake loop from Bedford, which offers a pleasant walk around the lake with minimal elevation.

Bedford County offers several demanding hikes. For a significant challenge, you can explore trails within Blue Knob State Park, which contains some of the highest points in the area. The park features routes with substantial elevation gain, rewarding hikers with impressive views.

Most of the popular trails in Bedford County are loops, meaning you start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A good example is the Blue Knob State Park loop from Pavia, a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) circuit that takes you through the beautiful forests of the park.

Many trails in state parks like Shawnee State Park and Blue Knob State Park are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check the specific park regulations before you go. It's also important to ensure the trail's difficulty and terrain are suitable for your dog.

While our curated routes focus more on lakes and lookouts, the broader Bedford County region is known for trails that feature waterfalls. The Fallingwater Cascades Trail and the Apple Orchard Falls Trail are two well-regarded hikes in the area that lead to beautiful cascades.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths in the state parks and the beautiful scenery, especially the panoramic views from lookouts and the peaceful lakeside routes.

Absolutely. Blue Knob State Park is a prime destination for hiking. It offers a variety of trails, including the Blue Knob – Pavia lookout loop from Pavia. This shorter 2-mile (3.3 km) trail provides a taste of the park's scenery without requiring a full day's commitment.

The scenery is diverse, defined by rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque lakes. You can expect stunning views from elevated points like Pavia Lookout, peaceful shoreline paths around Shawnee Lake, and immersive woodland experiences within the region's state parks.

Yes, the Shuster Way Heritage Trail is a popular path that connects historic downtown Bedford with the Bedford Springs Resort. It's a well-marked, multi-use trail perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, offering a blend of local history and nature.

Many trails, like the Shuster Way Heritage Trail, are free to access. However, state parks such as Shawnee State Park and Blue Knob State Park may charge an entrance fee for vehicles, especially during the peak season. It's best to check the official park websites for current fee information before your visit.

Several spots are local favorites for hiking. Sharp Top Trail is one of the most highly-regarded hikes in Virginia, known for its incredible 360-degree views from the summit. For a different experience, Falling Creek Park offers a beautiful and well-maintained trail system that's popular for both hiking and disc golf. You can also access a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail within the county for a chance to walk part of this famous long-distance path.