Accessible Alleghany Adventures
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Not up for a five-mile hike? You don’t have to in the Alleghany Highlands (unless you want to). Here, the scenery can come to you. This guide rounds up some of the most scenic, family-friendly, and mobility-inclusive outdoor spots across the region. If you’re traveling with kids, have limited time, or prefer a slower and more chill vibe, there’s an adventure here for everyone – no hiking boots (or uphill climbs) required.
Please note: While many of these locations are more easily accessible than others, not all meet formal ADA standards. Outdoor conditions and terrain may vary, so we recommend double-checking accessibility details before you go.
The Jackson River Scenic Trail was created as a part of the Rails-to-Trails program, which seeks to restore old rail lines into multipurpose trails for walking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. Because it follows the old railway corridor, the trail is remarkably flat and smooth, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. The trail spans 16 miles along the Jackson River and its surface is smooth, crushed gravel, which makes it perfect for strollers and adaptive bikes. The trail is shaded by trees and sprinkled with scenic overlooks, wooden bridges, and wildlife sightings that will make your trip exhilarating.
While the trail is 16 miles long, there are multiple access points for shorter afternoon strolls or longer bike rides. The beginning of the trail is the Intervale Trailhead and also the location of Alleghany Outdoors, an outfitter for all things adventure: bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, floats and a variety of handicap accessible equipment. 7.2 miles into the trail is the Smith Bridge Trailhead, and in another 3.5 miles the Natural Well trailhead lies near the Alleghany-Bath County line.
Sensory Trail in Clifton Forge
The new Clifton Forge Sensory Trail (also known as Smith Creek Trail) offers a meaningful, accessible, and engaging attraction for Clifton Forge residents and downtown explorers. With a trailhead located behind the Clifton Forge School of the Arts and across from the Historic Masonic Theatre, there’s hardly any excuse not to walk this trail and discover what it has to offer. The trail was designed to incorporate activities and features that engage all seven senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, movement and balance (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception).
The idea for the trail began when a local resident approached the Clifton Forge Parks and Trails Committee, expressing the need for more accessible, sensory-rich park spaces. The Sensory Trail is a paved, 0.6 mile out-and-back trail that follows the quaint Smith Creek, which flows through the town.
The Falling Springs Falls are located directly off the roadside of Route 220, approximately five miles from the City of Covington. This roadside stop boasts one of the tallest waterfalls in the state of Virginia which cascades dramatically from an 80-foot tall cliff.
What makes Falling Springs Falls particularly impressive is its roadside accessibility. Visitors can simply pull off into the dedicated parking area and take a short, flat walk (less than 0.1 miles) to reach the scenic overlook. The lot has picnic tables, informational kiosks, and plenty of room to stretch your legs and take in the Alleghany Highlands’ views, making it a beautiful place to pull off on your way into the city of Covington.
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park offers more than 40 miles of hiking trails, a 50-acre lake, and a trout-stocked stream that winds through the forested valley. Waterfall lovers will find plenty to explore: the massive 600-foot dam spillway, the scenic Blue Suck Falls, and winding Wilson creek that flows through the park. If you’re looking for something accessible, check out the beach complex and YCC Trail that runs through it.
The beach complex is outlined by a wooden boardwalk and has handicap parking available by the amphitheatre. The boardwalk follows the sandy beach all the way to the boat rental dock, where you can hop on a paddleboard or in a canoe and float on the water. Much of the YCC trail’s surface is crushed gravel, making it an easy walk for strollers, families, and seniors. If you’re visiting the lakefront, Douthat also provides a beach wheelchair at no charge – ensuring that everyone can access the water and enjoy the sandy swimming area.
The Jackson River is formed at Gathright Dam and Lake Moomaw and flows throughout the county until it meets with the Cowpasture and forms the James River Headwaters. The river is easily accessible by five public access points spanning from Lake Moomaw to the Intervale Trailhead of the Jackson River Scenic Trail. At Intervale, you’ll find Alleghany Outdoors, whose staff would be happy to set you up with a leisurely river float, paddleboarding adventure, or e-bike experience. There’s also 9 additional public access points that pass through Covington, Low Moor and Clifton Forge that are along main roads. And if fishing is more your style, the Jackson River is an incredible, state-renowned trout fishery. Wade in from a boat launch or paddle out to your own quiet fishing hole and see what you can reel in.
Conclusion
What sets the Alleghany Highlands apart isn’t just the sweeping mountain views or crystal-clear waterways, it’s how seamlessly nature meets the community. Although these are the more accessible adventures in this neck of the woods, always remember to come prepared with water, snacks, and a friend. These are some of the easier-to-reach, scenic stops across the Highlands, but accessibility can mean different things depending on your needs. Be sure to check with each destination before you go to make sure it’s the right fit for you or your group. Safe travels!!
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