The conjunction of three Virginia State Parks – Shot Tower, Foster Falls and the New River Trail – makes for a great day of outdoor adventure. Even better news, the three parks are about a half hour away from Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground.

Getting to the Parks  

To reach these three Virginia State Parks, take exit 24 Poplar Camp Road off I-77 and follow the brown signs. The turn for Shot Tower State Park is on the left with the turn for Foster Falls not even a quarter mile down the road on the right. The New River Trail State Park connects the two locations.

Shot Tower

Shot Tower is a familiar site to anyone who travels I-77. The historic building towers 75 feet over the New River and is visible from the interstate. Many people may not realize it is a Virginia State Park.

The tower was one of the first ammunition manufacturing sites in the country. Metal was dropped down a 150 foot shaft into a large kettle of water. The drop formed the bullets into the appropriate shape and the water cushioned the fall. You can’t go up in the tower, except for certain days in the summer (check the website for the schedule), but it is still an interesting piece of history. From the Shot Tower, follow the paved path behind the restrooms to access the New River Trail. There is a parking fee so remember to bring cash.

Foster Falls

Once you make the turn off Highway 52 toward Foster Falls, you enjoy a ride down a windy, two-lane road through farmland. You’ll see the sign for Foster Falls and turn left in front of Foster Falls Historic District. We saw the buildings but didn’t realize they were historic. On our next visit, we’ll have to take a closer look.

We went directly into Foster Falls Park, which is on the New River next to an extended section of rapids. We visited in the winter and could see why so many people we know love this park. The river, limestone cliffs and mountainous setting are gorgeous. During the season, you can rent canoes, bikes and horses. There is a gift shop, playground, boat launches and numerous picnic areas with grills. Fishing is another popular activity. Tent campers can find a selection of level, primitive sites right next to the river. Reservations are required. Check Virginia State Park website for activities scheduled for the Discovery Center.

New River Trail

The New River Trail’s fifty-seven mile journey along the river runs by Foster Falls on its way through Pulaski, Wythe, Carroll and Grayson counties. This was our second time on the New River Trail. This section as well as the one we walked near Galax is flat, scenic and well-maintained.

From Foster Falls, we walked south along the New River Trail about a mile and a half to Shot Tower State Park and then turned around for the walk back to Foster Falls. The panoramic view takes in woods, mountains, cliffs, the river and surrounding farmland. As you pass Shot Tower, you walk under the massive I-77 bridge that spans the New River. Since most of us spend our time topside of these types of engineering marvels, the up-close look at the underside of the bridge is intriguing and reassuring.

Another access point is at the Highway 52 bridge. From the parking lot you end up on the New River Trail between Shot Tower and Foster Falls. Interestingly, that site was once where the Jackson Family, who originally owned Shot Tower, ran a hand-drawn ferry for over 130 years that served as the only river crossing in the area.

Whether you want a strenuous hike or a leisurely stroll, the New River Trail and its many access points are worth exploring. 

History and Outdoor Fun

Not many states have three state parks that you can explore in one day. So, take advantage of the opportunity next time you stay with us. Everyone in your family will find something they like whether it’s the history, hiking, biking, horseback riding, a dip in the river or a picnic.

Read about our visits to Doughton State Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway.