Hiking and Biking

Natural Chimneys has over 2.5 miles of combined hiking and biking trails. Approximately one (1) mile of this trail system is level and considered easy for both walking and biking. This trail meanders along the borders of the park, in and out of hardwood stands. The park borders the North River, giving the hiker a cool and refreshing walk beside calm waters when the river is running. Unfortunately, the river retreats underground at times in the summer due to low levels.   Walking and Hiking Trail Map

The remainder of the trails is on steep hills and ridges and is of medium difficulty. Overlooks give great peeks of the valley below with an unimpeded western view from behind the Natural Chimneys themselves. These trails are suitable for hikers and advanced mountain bikers only.

Numerous wildflowers and wildlife are observable while using either trail. It is not uncommon to see a chipmunk or grey squirrel busy about the task of finding food or hear a songbird singing about the morning or an owl ‘hooting’ about its perch in the dark. White tail deer, wild turkey, and the occasional black bear have been sighted in the park. In fact, Natural Chimneys is included as an observation site for the Mountain Trail of the Virginia Birding & Wildlife Trail System.  For additional details visit the Department of Wildlife Resources website.

With approximately ¾ mile of frontage on the North River, a native trout habitat, the park offers easily accessible fishing holes. A license, issued by the State of Virginia, is required to fish and all state regulations and limits are applicable. Throughout the fall, winter, and spring, the river is stocked with trout by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, and fishing here requires a Trout License from October 1 through June 15. Please check the Department of Wildlife Resources website regarding trout re-stocking schedules.

This portion of the North River traditionally experiences low water levels in the summer and retreats to flow underground in the months of July, August, September, and most of October. This section of the river is not navigable by canoe or kayak at any time of year.

A hard-surfaced basketball half-court is located in the front activity field of the park just west of the swimming pool. This court is available for general use during park hours.

A grass-surface volleyball court is located between Shelter #2 and Shelter #3 and is first available to rentals and then to any general use during park hours.

Balls or any other equipment, including posts, rims and nets, are not provided by the park.

Playground

A small playground including swings can be found within the campground at the south end. This playground is available for general use and placed for the convenience of campers. Equipment and structures are designed for children’s use and adult supervision is required.

Jousting Track

This seventy-five yard straight track with three evenly spaced timber frames is used exclusively for Jousting tournaments, exhibits, and practice throughout the year. The track is cooperatively maintained by the Natural Chimneys Jousting Club, the National Jousting Association, and the park staff. Bleachers are provided for spectators and the track is lit for post-dusk rides.

This track hosts two annual special events. The first is the National Hall of Fame Jousting Tournament in June. The second is the Natural Chimneys Jousting Tournament. This tournament is the oldest, continuously held sporting event in North America, outliving the Kentucky Derby and the World Series.