Upper James River Water Trail

Upper James River Water Trail Enjoy paddling, tubing and fishing on the James River as it winds through Botetourt and Rockbridge C

The Upper James River Water Trail is comprised of the first 64 miles of the iconic James River in Virginia. The James River begins in Botetourt County at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture Rivers. It meanders through Botetourt and Rockbridge County in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The entire stretch of river through both counties is designated as Virginia Scenic River. In addition

to spectacular mountain scenery, the Upper James River Water Trail offers great wildlife viewing, excellent fishing and lots of different options for paddling or floating. With numerous public access points, paddlers can choose from a short two hour trip or a multi-day trip. Most of the trail is suitable for beginners and families with the exception of Balcony Falls in Rockbridge County. The Upper James River Water Trail encourages everyone to know the stretch of river they are on and to be aware of water levels.

Our latest e-newsletter is now available. Check out ideas for photographing fall foliage, understanding water levels and...
08/27/2026

Our latest e-newsletter is now available. Check out ideas for photographing fall foliage, understanding water levels and where to go for apres-paddle burgers.

As the dog days of summer come to an end, the cooler weather starts to work its magic on the forest. The green leaves yield to the inevitable burst of yellow, orange and red that signals the arrival of fall. Autumn in the Blue Ridge Mountains is spectacular. Paddling the Upper James offers a unique...

Pumpkin spice products are showing up on menus and that mans fall can't be far off. Plan a perfect fall getaway that inc...
08/24/2026

Pumpkin spice products are showing up on menus and that mans fall can't be far off. Plan a perfect fall getaway that include foliage viewing on the Upper James and then relaxing in one of these great trail towns.

From its origin in northern Botetourt County at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture Rivers, the James River flows through or near several quaint towns as it winds through the mountains and southern Shenandoah Valley. Each small town has its own history and personality. One thing they all sh...

Within a few weeks, the kids will be back in school. Don't let summer slip away without spending some quality family tim...
07/30/2026

Within a few weeks, the kids will be back in school. Don't let summer slip away without spending some quality family time on the Upper James.

If you’ve seen the Blue Ridge Mountains from a scenic overlook or while driving along a quiet back road, it’s time for a totally new perspective – river level. The Upper James River Water Trail meanders through beautiful Botetourt and Rockbridge Counties. The trail is organized into sections, ...

Nice weather in the forecast this week. Spend some time on the Upper James River.
07/13/2026

Nice weather in the forecast this week. Spend some time on the Upper James River.

The Upper James River is running at 2.5 feet on the USGS Buchanan river gauge, good levels for mid-July. Unlike many other rivers in the state, the Upper James is fed by releases from Lake Moomaw / Gathright Dam, ensuring you can always paddle the Upper James River all season, even though we need some rain. We are in prime paddling season, so gather your crew and get them on the river while you can.

Our latest e-newsletter is out. Check out some ideas for how to make summer 2026 your best paddling season ever. Plus so...
06/25/2026

Our latest e-newsletter is out. Check out some ideas for how to make summer 2026 your best paddling season ever. Plus some suggestions for what to see and do after a day on the river.

Consisting of 60+ miles of the James and another 15+ of the Maury, the Upper James River Water Trail offers a lot of different opportunities. No two segments of the water trail are the same. Each portion offers different scenery, various levels of challenge, and many options for fishing. If you want...

June 20 is Go Paddle Day. Have a fun and safe day on the river.
06/18/2026

June 20 is Go Paddle Day. Have a fun and safe day on the river.

Our friends at Virginia is for Lovers offer a guide to the James River. It's the longest river contained completely with...
06/17/2026

Our friends at Virginia is for Lovers offer a guide to the James River. It's the longest river contained completely withing the Commonwealth. The perfect place to start exploring is at the beginning — on the Upper James.

The James River winds from west to east in Virginia, cutting through the Blue Ridge Mountains and the capital city as it travels to its final destination, the Chesapeake Bay. The river offers wild rapids, calm fishing spots, and everything in between for those looking to traverse this 348-mile water...

What to do now that school is out for the summer? Head to the river for some tubing. Outfitters are ready to make it a s...
06/09/2026

What to do now that school is out for the summer? Head to the river for some tubing. Outfitters are ready to make it a safe and fun trip.

Need a Guide or Gear? OUTFITTERS Plan your river adventure with these outfitters:   Maury River Smallmouth, LLC 24 Musket Loop, Natural Bridge, Va 24578 (540) 632-3990 | mauryriversmallmouth.com Providing kayak rental and paddler shuttle services on the Upper James River, from Iron Gate to Snowden,...

What is a fun thing to do when the temps are in the 90s? This photo might give you an idea. Let's go tubing on the Upper...
05/19/2026

What is a fun thing to do when the temps are in the 90s? This photo might give you an idea. Let's go tubing on the Upper James! https://upperjamesriverwatertrail.com/

The Upper James River Water Trail runs through Botetourt and Rockbridge counties, with breathtaking views of the mountains.

Great free event coming to the Town of Buchanan right along the James River at the Town Park.
05/16/2026

Great free event coming to the Town of Buchanan right along the James River at the Town Park.

Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure, hands-on activities, and nature-based learning. From kayaking and climbing to wildlife encounters and interactive exhibits, BOCO Wild is all about discovering the the great outdoors.

📅 Saturday, June 13
🕐 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Buchanan Town Park

https://vist.ly/54f3w

Address

106 E. Washington Street
Lexington, VA
24450

Telephone

(540) 463-3777

Website

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