providing a barrier for Union and Confederate soldiers to clash over at the Staunton River Battlefield. Throughout its course, the river hosts wildlife in profusion. Along its route are numerous small parks and convenient boat landings that facilitate canoe access to the river.
6. BEAVER POND CREEK HIKING TRAIL This trail offers free access to a local wilderness area with several miles of hardened surfaces for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Lakefront views are abundant and rare elevated hills offer great views of Buggs Island Lake, the largest lake in Virginia. *Please note: Trails are clear but unmarked - please take a GPS device or map with you.
3. LIBERTY HILL HIKING TRAIL This interpretive 1.25-mile trail near the John H. Kerr dam offers views of the dam and often bald eagles and osprey. A self-guided interpretive trail offers much information about early settlers to the area. This is a moderate to easy trail with a mild elevation change. Liberty Hill offers great views of John H. Kerr dam, 4th largest dam in the United States.
4. PANHANDLE TRAIL OCCONEECHEE STATE PARK The Panhandle Multi-Use Trail located in Occoneechee State Park is a 15-mile round-trip trail, with an additional 1-mile spur trail located approximately 3/4 of a mile into the hike. This very secluded hike is along a long peninsula jutting into Kerr Lake, and is very lightly traveled. There are many opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Hunting is allowed in-season with a VA hunting license, and fishing allowed year-round with either a VA or NC fishing license.
5. VIRGINIA BIRD & WILDLIFE TRAIL STAUNTON RIVER LOOP This multi-county trail begins in Mecklenburg and meanders into Halifax County with five of the 10 sites on this loop. This great river has played its part in Virginia’s history, providing inspiring views to Patrick Henry from his home in Red Hill, and 2021 SIGHTS & BITES 13