We invite you to enjoy Giles County Spring hikes or embark on a wildflower walk in our corner of Virginia. We know it’s still showing random signs of winter, but spring is coming! That means the wildflowers will soon be in bloom throughout Virginia’s Mountain Playground®. There are fun things to do in Giles County, and you can’t forget the events and festivals throughout the New River Valley this spring. You’re welcome to stroll, hike, walk, or bike to uncover these spots and the signs of spring! Giles is a nature lovers dream destination with open spaces, quaint haunts, and trails to excite the senses. We’ve given some suggestions here on places to trek to, but we know you’ll find adventure throughout the county and look forward to hearing all about your seasonal fun…
Newport Covered Bridge: Spring Wildflowers in Newport, VA
Part of our VA250 Giles celebration, the Sinking Creek Covered Bridge in Newport, VA turns 110 this year! Built in 1916 this was one of three covered bridges in the county (now there are two remaining). With public access and plenty of benches you can have a quiet moment in nature with plenty of daffodils, Virginia Bluebells, and wildflowers along Sinking Creek. Don’t forget to sign the guest book! If you want a scenic detour, venture in your vehicle ‘round the Clover Hollow loop to see beautiful farmland and historic homes.
Cascades Waterfall Hike: A Classic Giles County Spring Trail
This iconic waterfall hike in Giles County is a-must every season, but spring offers fresh greens, budding trees, variety of wildflowers, and a more moderate hike to enjoy. The 4-mile round-trip hike welcomes visitors from all over the world. For those who choose to take the lower trail on the way up, you’ll meet lots of steps, tree roots, and rocks but the payoff is the 69+ foot waterfall surrounded by spring’s finest display. One of the most popular spring hikes near Blacksburg, VA and located about 20 minutes from Virginia Tech, this popular Cascades spring hike destination is least popular on Monday and Tuesday mornings, if you’re hoping to get the trails to yourself. There is a fee to park at the Cascades, public restrooms available, and remember, weekends tend to get busy.
Mountain Lake Lodge & Conservancy: High Elevation Wildflower Walks
Venture up the mountain for a seemingly whole other ecosystem to enjoy this Spring. Mountain Lake Lodge offers over 20 miles of trails. Day users are encouraged to stop by the Outfitters for information or gear, or you can simply pick up a trail map and head out to discover high altitude Mountain Lake spring wildflowers. Because the property sits above 4,000 feet in elevation, the wildflower season arrives a bit later but is still a great spot for those looking to extend their wildflower viewing season! The trails are marked and range from easy forest strolls to more rugged wilderness paths. Discover some of Virginia Big Trees or admire old-growth forests and fern covered forest floors. The National Champion Mountain Holly is located along the trail circling the lakebed, making it an easy task to find! It feels a little otherworldly with the Trillium, Violets, Mountain Laurel, and Flame Azaleas in bloom.4
Eggleston Boat Landing: Riverside Blooms Along the New River
You’ll want to see the riverside color and peaceful spring vibes found here at the Mary Ingles | Eggleston Boat Landing. The landing offers easy access to the New River Water Trail in Eggleston, VA if you’re ready for on-water fun. It also offers a few picnic tables to enjoy riverside while you keep your eyes open for native New River wildflowers blooming and the wildlife that abounds along our river. We’ve seen otters and bald eagles enjoying the weather from here! The Eggleston Road bridge mirrored by the natural cliffs offers amazing photography backdrops or simply an opportunity to reflect on the connections between man and nature. This could also be a good spot for bank fishing along the New River. If you’re there later in the evening, pair this spot with a dinner reservation at The Palisades Restaurant. They are also a part of our VA250 Giles celebration as their building celebrates its 100th anniversary this year!
Whitt Riverbend Park: Accessible Spring Wildflowers in Pearisburg
An easy nature stroll along the paved walking path can be paired with the unimproved path along the New River to make this visit a little bit of everything for spotting Pearisburg, VA spring wildflowers along the river. The nearly 30-acre park is dog-friendly and offers an accessible riverside walk. You’ll also see and can enjoy primitive camping if you’re ready to kick off your outdoor season with an overnight! Between the Virginia Bluebells, Wild Columbine, and Common Milkweed, there is a lot blooming here along the New River Water Trail. This is also a great pet-friendly spot with room to run and shelters to pause and rest. Whitt Riverbend Park in Pearisburg is a few minutes from downtown where you can do some local shopping, find a snack or sweet treat, or tour other attractions like the Andrew Johnston House and Giles County Historical Society.
Town Park in Narrows: Family-Friendly Spring Activity Spot
A perfect spot to take the whole family for a playday. The Narrows Town Park features covered shelters, playgrounds, basketball and pickleball courts, and running alongside is Wolf Creek. You’ll be sure to see sweetgum trees budding out and Virginia Bluebells in bloom as you enjoy Narrows, VA spring activities. This spot is easily walkable to other Narrows, VA attractions and shopping like Haven’s Hill Florist where you can buy and take home beautiful spring blossoms or plants too!
Downtown Rich Creek: Small-Town Blooms in the Virginias
The small-town charm in Rich Creek, Virginia offers a walkable main street community and is so refreshing. Not only can you enjoy the flower beds and native wildflowers along Rich Creek and the New River, but you can also pop into local shops like Gateway Gifts or grab a bite at Pizza Plus or Queens in Rich Creek, VA this spring. The storefronts and town buildings offer a chance to see flower beds in full bloom as you traverse this beautiful town that is the intersection of the Virginias. Route 219 and Route 460 meet here in Rich Creek and why it’s called the Gateway to Giles County.
Tips for Enjoying Giles County Spring Hikes
Always good practice to wear well-fitted shoes and layers of clothing. Springtime can also mean mud or wet conditions on the trails and treks, so plan accordingly. Don’t forget your camera and water or snacks as you venture out. Many of these listed are nearby to other services and amenities but take special precaution with supplies if you’re venturing to the Cascades or out in the Mountain Lake Lodge and wilderness areas. These spots are all publicly accessible with designated parking areas so that shouldn’t be a hindrance to getting out and enjoying! And any time you are exploring nature follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of trash or impacts you might have on our natural landscapes. We want you and others to enjoy them for many more generations to come.
Let’s Get Going!
Plan your spring wildflower trip to Giles County, Virginia! You could pick these off throughout spring or you can make a weekend of it and check them all off on one visit! Giles offers a variety of lodging options to choose from. Visit our Lodging page to be directed to whatever speaks to you and your travel party.
We imagine you’ll also be ready to enjoy some food after soaking up all this natural beauty on your Giles County spring hikes, so visit our Dining page to see what locally owned options are available to you throughout Virginia’s Mountain Playground®.
You can download or request a Giles County Visitor Guide to continue to inspire you to explore our area or sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on Festivals and Events throughout the year.
Be sure to tag us on social with your wildflower finds, hiking buddies, or special moments you create this Spring in Giles.
