Pocahontas State Park in Virginia is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of trails and recreational opportunities. One of the park’s most renowned features is the Pocahontas State Park Op Trail, a vast network of over 70 miles of trails spanning 2,100 acres. This comprehensive guide will delve into the details of the Pocahontas State Park Op Trail, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next adventure.
The Original Pocahontas (OP) Trail
The Pocahontas State Park Op Trail, also known as the Original Pocahontas (OP) Trail, is a true marvel of nature. Stretching over 70 miles, this trail offers a captivating blend of scenic twists and turns, spectacular views, and dense, lush woods. The trail is located in Tazewell County and features 10 miles of single-track trails, perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Trailhead Locations
The Pocahontas State Park Op Trail has two main trailheads:
- Pocahontas Trailhead: 37.30517717638337, -81.34232274256647 | 210 Railroad Alley, Pocahontas, VA 24635
- Boissevain Trailhead: 37.28950727240917, -81.37182704173028 | 132 Miners Park Lane, Bluefield, VA 24605
Trail Features
The Pocahontas State Park Op Trail is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Hikers and mountain bikers can expect to encounter scenic twists and turns, breathtaking views, and a lush, dense forest environment throughout their journey.
Co-op Trail
In addition to the expansive Pocahontas State Park Op Trail, the park also offers the Co-op Trail, a 2-mile hiking-only trail. This trail features stunning views of Swift Creek Lake, as well as a mix of roots and inclines that provide a challenging yet rewarding experience. The Co-op Trail is suitable for hikers of all ages, though younger children may need to be in a carrier.
Mountain Biking Trails
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Pocahontas State Park offers approximately 43 miles of single-track directional trails, divided into three main systems: Morgan, Swift Creek, and Lakeview. These trails cater to riders of varying skill levels, from beginners to experts.
Trail Status and Conditions
Before visiting the mountain biking trails, it’s essential to check the current status and conditions at www.fopsp.org/current-info. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information on trail accessibility and any potential closures or maintenance work.
Tips for Mountain Bikers
When exploring the mountain biking trails at Pocahontas State Park, it’s crucial to ride smart, know your limits, and be aware of the current trail conditions. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders.
Other Trails
In addition to the Pocahontas State Park Op Trail and the Co-op Trail, the park offers a variety of other hiking options, including the Beaver Lake Trail (2.7 miles, easy) and various other trails with different lengths and difficulty levels.
Beaver Lake Trail
The Beaver Lake Trail is a 2.7-mile loop that offers an easy, family-friendly hike with an estimated duration of 58 minutes. This trail provides a great opportunity to explore the park’s natural beauty and observe the local wildlife.
Additional Hiking Trails
Pocahontas State Park features a range of other hiking trails, including the Beaver Lake loop and the Forest Exploration trails. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to hikers of all skill levels.
General Information
- Park Address: 10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832
- Phone: 804-796-4255
- Email: [email protected]
- Parking: Standard parking or admission fee applies, but no extra fee is required for the trails.