Powhatan State Park 6 mile hike

Description:

This 6 mile route covers most of the environments Powhatan State Park has to offer.

Note: this hike is NOT at Pocahontas State Park.

There is a steep 1/2 mile climb of 100' and on the return an even steeper descent. Approximately 2 miles of this route is open meadows, so please make sure you have adequate protection from the sun.

Our hike begins at Canoe Launch A.

Once you're in the park, turn LEFT onto River Launch Road (across from the playground). Follow that road 1.4 miles, all the way to the river.

We'll hike along the James River, passing through the float-in campground. A 1/2 mile 100' climb through the woods brings us to an open meadow where we'll hike along the edge of a mixed forest. As we turn into the forest our route gradually changes from mixed hardwood to mostly pine and then back again. Near the end of the hike we'll spend about 1.5 miles walking through open meadows where we're likely to see Eastern Cottontails, wildflowers, and a variety of butterflies and pollinators. At mile 5.5 there's a steep descent where we'll drop 110' in less than 1/4 mile, returning to the lowlands along the river.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Outings Leader ahead of time.

All participants must sign a Sierra Club waiver, either online or at the trailhead. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.

Carpool:

Anyone who would like to carpool can meet at the Gaskins Road Commuter Parking Lot.

Carpoolers should leave the parking lot no later than 8:20 to arrive at the park on time.

Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

Bring:

Water, snacks, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. For anyone who would like to bring a lunch, there are picnic tables near the start and end of the hike.

Cancellation Policy:

Steady rain cancels.

Level:

Strenuous

Cost:

Powhatan State Park charges a $5 per vehicle entrance/parking fee. REI members can use an REI receipt stub for free parking at Virginia State Parks.