High Bridge Trail
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Location
Farmville, Virginia and Southside Virginia
Trail length
32.2 miles
Uses
Walking, bicycling and horseback riding
Managed by
Virginia State Parks
High Bridge Trail is a long, mostly level route along a former railroad corridor, running through the towns and countryside of Southside Virginia. Its defining landmark is High Bridge, a steel railroad viaduct more than 2,400 feet long and 125 feet above the Appomattox River. The trail is suited to a short stroll as well as a longer walk, ride or horseback outing; you can choose an access point and turn around whenever you like.[1]
The park’s historic setting gives the route a story beyond its rail-trail scenery. High Bridge was part of the Southside Railroad and figured in the final days of the Civil War; today the bridge and converted rail corridor make a distinctive outdoor destination near Farmville, Virginia. Before setting out, check the state park’s current notices, access information and trail map, since conditions can change.[2]
Plan a trip to High Bridge Trail
Why visit High Bridge Trail?
The appeal is the combination of an easy-gradient rail-trail experience and a memorable destination: the elevated bridge spans the Appomattox River valley, with views across the wooded landscape. The old rail bed is broad and generally flat, making it practical to explore at your own pace on foot, by bicycle or on horseback.[3]
It is also a compelling stop for visitors interested in Virginia railroad and Civil War history. High Bridge’s steel structure dates to 1914, while masonry piers and abutments preserve evidence of the earlier bridge built for the Southside Railroad.[4]
Start here
Decide whether you want to make the bridge the main event or sample a quieter stretch of trail. Farmville provides a town-side access option, while High Bridge Station, near Rice, is another access point close to the bridge. The park has multiple trailheads, so consult the official map before choosing a route and confirm which lots and sections are open when you visit.[5]
If you are aiming for the bridge, allow time for the approach as well as time on the span. Check the park’s current visitor information for operating hours, parking, fees, facilities and any closures; these details may change. The state park lists High Bridge Station as a visitor-center location and notes that water fountains are available there.[6]
What to see and do
Walk across High Bridge
Make the signature crossing above the Appomattox River. The bridge is more than 2,400 feet long and offers an elevated perspective on the river valley.
Ride the rail trail
Bring a bicycle for a longer out-and-back ride on the former railroad bed. The mostly level route lets you choose a distance that fits your visit.
Explore on foot
Take a shorter walk from a convenient trailhead, or follow the trail toward the bridge. Check the official map for distances and access details.
Look for railroad history
Notice how the trail follows the former rail corridor and how the present steel bridge stands alongside remnants of its earlier predecessor.
Visit High Bridge Station
Use the visitor-center area near Rice as a starting point and check the park’s current information before relying on its facilities or opening hours.
History and significance
The High Bridge crossing was built for the Southside Railroad’s line between Lynchburg and Petersburg. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources describes the original bridge as dating to 1854 and reaching 126 feet above the river. In 1865, as Robert E. Lee’s army retreated after the fall of Petersburg, Confederate forces set fire to the bridge; it was not completely destroyed, and Union forces were able to continue their pursuit toward Appomattox.[7]
A replacement bridge was built after the war. The current steel structure, erected in 1914, follows the line of the earlier bridge and its surviving masonry supports. Railroad service continued on the line into the late 20th and early 21st centuries before the corridor became a multi-use trail.[8]
Norfolk Southern donated an abandoned rail corridor to Virginia in 2006, enabling its conversion into High Bridge Trail State Park. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources recognizes the bridge on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places.[9][10]
Planning a visit
- Choose your access point: The trail extends across several counties and has multiple access areas. Use the official park trail guide to compare trail sections, parking and facilities before you go.[11]
- Check conditions: Confirm current hours, trail access, parking arrangements and any repair or closure notices on the Virginia State Parks page. Park information can change.
- Plan your distance: The full route is 32.2 miles, but there is no need to complete it in one visit. Plan an out-and-back from a selected trailhead and leave enough time to return.
- Bring what you need: Carry water and appropriate footwear, and prepare for the weather. The park identifies High Bridge Station as the trail’s water-fountain location; do not assume other sections have drinking water.[12]
Nearby attractions
Farmville, Virginia
Use the town as a base for exploring the trail and nearby Southside Virginia.
Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
Explore the historic village associated with the surrender that ended major fighting in the Civil War.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park
Visit a Civil War battlefield connected to the final days of the 1865 Appomattox Campaign.
Twin Lakes State Park
Pair a trail visit with another Virginia state park in the Farmville area.
Books and useful gear: Browse related travel books and outdoor gear on Amazon
References
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ Virginia's Rails to Trails, Virginia Is for Lovers, Virginia Tourism Corporation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge, Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park Trail Guide, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge, Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge, Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge, Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park Trail Guide, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.
- ↑ High Bridge Trail State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-22.