Hiking
Buena Vista is crisscrossed with hiking trails for every explorer, whether you want a leisurely stroll or a heart-pounding upward climb. Here are a few of our local favorites:
Buena Vista’s 315-acre outdoor playground is laced with easy-to-moderate trails that weave throughout the park’s wooded terrain, complete with picnic spots, public restrooms, and a community pool. When you’re finished, treat yourself to something sweet from the ice cream stand near the ballfields.
Chessie Nature Trail
This rails-to-trails gem appeared on USA Today’s lineup of the 10 Best Recreational Trails in America. The Chessie Trail spans seven miles along the Maury River between Buena Vista and Lexington. Expect pastoral views, lush wildflowers, and even a grazing cow or two.
Maury River Walk
The gentle, 2.5-mile River Walk runs parallel to Sycamore and Magnolia Avenues, making it a popular spot for in-town jogging, fishing, and birding.
Appalachian Trail
Buena Vista loves AT through-hikers, and a dedicated network of trail angels makes our city a favorite stopping-off point for mail collection and much-needed rest. Meanwhile, day hikers can get a sample of one of the most storied mountain journeys in America. The nearest trail access is located nine miles east of town at U.S. Route 60.
Panther Falls
On a hot summer day, it’s hard to resist a dip in this nearby swimming hole on the Pedlar River. Take a leap from the rocks into the bracing waters below … or just pack a picnic and admire the views.
A Few More Adventures Around the Corner …
Ready for more adventure? Don’t miss the incredible bouldering and scrambling at nearby Devil’s Marbleyard or the famed views at Virginia’s Natural Bridge. And if you want a glimpse of one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, Buena Vista is just an hour north of McAfee Knob in nearby Roanoke, Virginia.