Outdoor Adventures in the Region
In addition to exceptional paddling and fishing on the Upper James, the mountains of Virginia and southern Shenandoah Valley region offer lots of other opportunities for outdoor fun. Discover world-class mountain biking, scenic road cycling options, bird and wildlife viewing and miles and miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail, the most famous footpath […]
Suggested Floats
If you’ve seen the Blue Ridge Mountains from a scenic overlook or while driving along a quiet back road, it’s time for a totally new perspective – river level. The Upper James River Water Trail meanders through beautiful Botetourt and Rockbridge Counties. The trail is organized into sections, each offering a unique river experience. Select […]
Media
The James River has captivated people’s imagination since the days of George Washington, who personally surveyed stretches of the Upper James. Today, travel journalists and bloggers occasionally visit and share their adventures online and in print magazines. Blue Ridge Outdoors: October 18, 2022 Best Paddling Trails in the Southeast > Recreation News: July […]
Gallery
The Upper James River Water Trail features breathtaking mountain scenery around every bend. The landscape includes majestic mountains, rugged cliffs and rolling farmland. Since a photo is worth 1,000 words, take a look at some of the stunning photos we have seen of the James and Maury Rivers.
Safety
Some basic things to know before getting out on the water: Know the river levels. If the water is flooded, low, or normal. A flooded river is often dangerous and should be avoided. A low river may expose logs, stumps or rocks, which make the trip slower and more difficult. Realtime Water Levels for the […]
Trail Towns
From its origin in northern Botetourt County at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture Rivers, the James River flows through or near several quaint towns as it winds through the mountains and southern Shenandoah Valley. Each small town has its own history and personality. One thing they all share is an abundance of charm […]
Getting Here
The James River starts at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture Rivers in Botetourt County north of Roanoke, Virginia. Roughly 46 miles of river flow through the county before crossing into neighboring Rockbridge County for approximately 20 more miles. The Water Trail also encompasses a stretch of the Maury River, including where it meets […]
Rapids Classifcations
River classification is used to give a universal language to describe the difficulties on a river. It is a somewhat subjective guideline, and is based on judging a river under certain conditions (i.e. normal water levels). Even minor changes in water levels can completely alter a classification. Class I (easy): Easy moving water with riffles […]
Attractions
In Botetourt County: Roaring Run Recreational Area (Falls and historic furnace) Looking for a fun hike that features a natural water slide? Roaring Run Falls and Furnace Trail is an excellent hiking trail for the whole family. Two trails lead to the falls creating a 1.5 mile loop trail and the easy, well-marked trail begins […]