The outdoor recreation options are practically endless in Bath County.
This suggested itinerary, which can be squeezed into one day, is specially designed to include fun experiences on land, water and in the air. We think you’ll love it, but offer some alternatives at the end, just in case one activity doesn’t appeal to you. More than likely, if you’re the adventurous type, you will want to stay a second and third day to try everything on the list.
• The Jackson River is a perfect choice for paddlers of all experience levels. The experts at Alleghany Outdoors can rent kayaks and supply a shuttle ride. Work with the outfitters to select the ideal half-day float. If you’re looking for something a bit more mild, or are traveling with kids, consider a tubing experience.
• Head back to Bath County and enjoy lunch at any of several great spots including The Country Café, Lindsay’s Roost, Garden Room & Café, Cucci’s, The Dairy Barn or the Tavern at the Inn at Warm Springs.
• From Warm Springs, head east on Route 39 to the Dan Ingalls Overlook and hike the Ingalls Overlook Trail. It’s a fairly easy 1.2 mile out-and-back (2.4 mile roundtrip) hike that offers great views.
• For the grand finale, head to The Omni Homestead Resort to ride the zipline.
Note: There are resort fees and advance reservations are required.
• Enjoy a cold craft beverage at Bacova Beer because you’ve earned it.
Options:
• If you have your own canoe, kayak or SUP, head to Lake Moomaw, where you can take your time exploring the undeveloped shoreline and maybe even find a quiet cove to fish.
• Great fishing can be found at numerous places in Bath County, including the Jackson River in the Hidden Valley Recreation Area, the Walton Tract on the Cowpasture River in Millboro and Douthat Lake in Douthat State Park. If you want to take the experience to a new level, consider a guided fly fishing trip.
• Douthat State Park has some of the best mountain biking trails in Virginia. For a more leisurely ride, consider the Jackson River Scenic Trail in neighboring Alleghany County. Road cycling is popular in Bath County because of the peaceful back roads.
• There are hiking trails in every corner of Bath County. Explore Douthat State Park, Lake Moomaw, Hidden Valley Recreation Area, Warm Springs Preserve. Many trail descriptions and downloadable maps are available at DiscoverBath.com
• On foot or on two wheels are the most common way to explore Bath County’s trails, but there is another fun, family-friendly option – horseback riding. Turtlebrook Farm and Vineyard Farm can help with horses, lessons and guidance. If you’re trailering your own horses, Douthat State Park has an Equestrian Camping Area.
