The hiking trails in Virginia never fail to impress. Covering a range of landscapes from the Eastern Shore to the Virginia Highlands, these trails are perhaps the best way to get to know the land. Today, we’ll highlight a particularly scenic portion of the Appalachian Trail deemed the James River Footbridge. Spanning the mighty James River, this lovely footbridge offers a unique perspective of the water and the surrounding area. Whether you’re continuing along the Appalachian Trail for a longer trek or simply are curious to experience the bridge, you’ll be happy to travel to this corner of Amherst County, Virginia.
Resting on the piers of an abandoned railroad crossing, the James River Footbridge is a beautiful pedestrian bridge that spans one of the most iconic rivers in Virginia.
Susan Dalton / Google
The bridge is part of the Appalachian Trail and makes for a convenient crossing where beforehand, hikers would have to take a sharp detour to cross the waters.
Susan Dalton / Google
The beautiful bridge, which can be found north of the intersection of U.S. 501 North and Virginia 130, is the longest pedestrian-only bridge on the Appalachian Trail.
Kwang Kim / Google
Crossing the bridge, hikers will gain more than a convenient way to get from one bank of the river to the next. The views from the structure are simply breathtaking.
Missy Parisi / Google
This lovely bridge has become such a popular destination that it has its own spacious gravel parking lot. There’s a trail that leads under the railroad track to the set of stairs that will lead to the bridge.
Jeff Hales / Google
The 623-foot long bridge is dedicated to the memory of Bill Foot. He and his wife Laurie were avid hikers from Lynchburg who completed the Appalachian Trail together.
Bedford County Photography / Google
So the next time you’re craving a scenic adventure in the mountains that doesn’t require too much hiking, you’ll cherish your visit to this lovely footbridge in Virginia.
Keisha K / Google
Have you visited the James River Footbridge before? If so, we’d love to hear all about it! The bridge is located along the Appalachian Trail, Big Island, VA 24526.
Susan Dalton / Google
Kwang Kim / Google
Missy Parisi / Google
Jeff Hales / Google
Bedford County Photography / Google
Keisha K / Google
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