Exploring

Yes, Virginia, as of August 2011, we have a well-documented draft of a conceptual plan for a trail system that will blow you away! The James River Heritage Trail. It’s not only a proposed hiking, running, and biking path, but a canoeing, kayaking, rafting water trail, a study in geological evolution, a history corridor of indisputable national treasures from our Native American legacy, to Captain John Smith’s voyage and the first English settlements, through the Revolutionary War, slave history, the Civil War, water dependent industrial and agricultural growth–including the James River and Kanawha Canal–up through the Civil Rights era.

The JRHT would also be endless miles of wildlife, of birding, fishing, snorkeling, backpacking, camping or horseback riding opportunities, connecting rural and urban locales.  And what’s so promising about this vision is that much of this projected system is already in place or in development.

The mighty James River is Virginia’s river, and this plan networks the whole 10,432-square mile James River watershed, which is entirely (a smidgeon’s in WV) within our state’s borders, from the Alleghenies to the Chesapeake Bay. (Proposed) Vision: “The James River Heritage Trail is a network of communities that share their traditions, history and lifestyle to foster sustainable recreation and stewardship of treasured landscapes and local waters, trails and byways.”

Guiding principals as proposed:

• “The JRHT will provide multiple avenues to explore and learn about the heritage of the James River including off-road pathways, water trails, and on-road bicycle accommodations and driving routes.
• The JRHT will allow for and encourage the full involvement of a wide range of trail constituents, local citizens, and stakeholders.
• The JRHT will build upon existing trail plans, partnerships and traditions.
• The JRHT will be developed in a manner that ensures respect for private property, and be designed to complement and enhance, rather than detract from adjacent lands.
• The JRHT will support local businesses and regional economic revitalization efforts by creating a network of interconnected pathways and bike routes that link communities and showcase attractions throughout the watershed.
• The JRHT will serve as an outdoor classroom, connecting children to nature, and provide opportunities for active recreation that promotes health and wellness.
• The JRHT will serve to enhance existing land conservation efforts, promote wildlife corridors, and promote access to existing protected lands”