Hike - James River Foot Bridge to Matts Creek Shelter

 

James River Foot Bridge to Matts Creek Shelter

Parking

We drove 130 West and parked in the lot at 8352 Virginia Byway, Big Island, Virginia. There is room for several cars but during busy season, the lot fills up fast. There is a trail map there, and we took a picture of it for our reference. 

The Bridge

Dedicated in October 2000 near Snowden, VA, the 625-foot James River Foot Bridge is the longest pedestrian-only bridge on the Appalachian Trail (AT). It repurposed piers from an 1881 railroad bridge, providing a safe, direct crossing over the James River that replaced a dangerous detour on the U.S. 501 highway bridge. 

The Trail Along The River

The Appalachian Trail runs about 1 mile along the James River from the bridge. The trail has rocks and roots in it and can be slippery from leaves or water. There are several natural springs coming out of the rocks, and lots of plant and animal life. There is no camping allowed on this 1 mile stretch but there are camp sites on both ends. I highly suggest you use hiking poles, they are extremely helpful in preventing falls.

One of the natural springs coming out of the rock.

A Fire Pink wildflower growing on the rock formation.

My hiking partner for life.

A Wild Geranium growing along the trail.

Rock formations like this all along the trail.

The majority of the trail looks like this.

 Trail from the River to Matts Creek Shelter

The trail to Matts Creek Shelter is about 1 mile and follows the creek. The trail is not difficult but there are some rocky places and you need to be secure in your footing as you traverse them.

Some of the rocky patches I mentioned and the hiking poles help with stablility.

More rock formations.

A Common Blue Violet growing along the trail.

The Creek, yes it is Matts Creek.

The Shelter

The Shelter where hikers can spend the night.

A nice picnic table where we ate our lunch.

There is even a privy above the shelter, just knock before entering.

This was a fun hike and on the way back, everything looked different. We really enjoyed this hike and will probably do it again.

Before you go

• Research your hike
• Check trail length, difficulty, elevation gain, and terrain
• Read recent reviews (conditions can change fast)
• Know if permits, fees, or reservations are required
• Check the Weather
• Look at hourly forecasts, not just the daily summary
• Watch for sudden changes (storms, heat, cold fronts)
• Adjust clothing and timing accordingly
• Tell Someone Your Plan
• Share where you are going, your route and when you plan to return.
• This is especially important if you are hiking solo.
• Pack the Essentials
• Water
• Food/Snacks
• Map, compass and GPS (know how to use them)
• First Aid
• Flashlight/Headlamp
• Extra clothing
• Rain protection
• Multi-tool and/or knife
• Fire starter
• Emergency shelter ( I use a tarp and emergency blanket)
• Wear the Right Gear
• Broken in hiking boots or shoes
• Moisture wicking socks and clothing
• Dress in LAYERS for temperature changes.
• Download offline maps or bring paper maps
• Cell service can be very unreliable in the woods
• Know your limits
• Choose a trail that matches your fitness level
• Be realistic about time, distance and elevation
• Charge any devices you may take
• Phone
• GPS
• 2 way radio
• Check Local Hazards
• Wildlife (bears, snakes, etc.)
• Trail closures
• Water crossings