James River State Park to High Bridge Trail Connector

This lesser-known connector weaves through Virginia’s rolling Piedmont country, linking James River State Park with the historic High Bridge Trail along forgotten logging roads and abandoned railroad spurs. The route follows the old Southside Railroad grade for several miles before branching onto timber roads that wind through mixed hardwood forest and past Civil War-era earthworks. The highlight is emerging at High Bridge itself — a 2,400-foot railroad trestle that once carried Confederate supply trains and now anchors a 31-mile rail trail.

Easy terrain suitable for any vehicle with decent ground clearance, though seasonal mud and fallen trees can complicate passage in winter and early spring. Best traveled March through November when foliage allows better navigation and road conditions are most reliable. No permits needed but respect private property boundaries marked throughout the route. Bring navigation aids — GPS can be spotty in the hollows. The reward is accessing two Virginia gems via a quiet route that most visitors never discover.