Following a well-groomed path, a hiker can not only enjoy the beauty of the Rivanna River, but can also be a part of the history. From the old village of Palmyra, to the cemented pedestrian walkways lining the new Route15 bridge over the Rivanna, to the gravel and sand pathways that will lead you back to Pleasant Grove through a cathedral of trees, the Fluvanna Heritage Trail has been a “much loved” part of the county since its inception—led by the advocacy of Julie King and a group of Fluvanna residents.

In 1997, the lands that were part of the property of Pleasant Grove were purchased by the county. There was a movement by a group of individuals who wanted to see an integrated walking trail system hugging the border of the old manor’s property all the way to the scenic Rivanna River and the historic center of the county seat of Palmyra.

The trail began as a long range plan by a group of residents with help from the county government, using grants from other regional non-profits and the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Enhancement Assistance Grants (TEA-21). The TEA-21 grants are awarded with matching monies from a locality. The trails themselves were groomed and prepared by an army of volunteers, along lands that were not suitable for any kind of building due to steepness of the bluffs or flooding from the river.

Within six months of hard work, the first of the original trails were ready for visitors. Over time, the trails have expanded and now wind from the old Pleasant Grove manor house to the new courthouse complex. As the trails have expanded, the group that began this trail has grown into the Fluvanna Heritage Trail Foundation, which administers the trail system. The foundation is led by Marvin Moss, who serves as the president. He also shares duties with the Fluvanna Historical Society, which works closely with the Heritage Trail.

The entire trail encompasses more than 25 miles of trails for both hikers, as well as horseback riders. One can begin a journey at many trailheads from the eastern side of the area near Palmyra to the Western Trailhead at the Pole Barns behind the Manor house. On the eastern edge, lies the Julie King Sandy Trail—accessible by those in wheelchairs—and rolls along the southern banks of the Rivanna River. There is a park around the trailhead, which boasts three fully-furnished, rustic picnic shelters along with the Fluvanna dog park, also built with funding from VDOT grants and the Heritage Trail Foundation. The picnic areas can be rented for large groups and parties from Fluvanna County Parks and Recreation. 

As you walk west, you will see the latest trailhead just behind the new Fluvanna County Library and the Public Safety Building and at the farthest western point of the trail is the Pleasant Grove trailhead behind the old Pole Barns. Benches line the trail for relaxing or quietly watching wildlife. You can also choose to enjoy the opportunity to canoe the Rivanna River from launch points along the river, including the Heritage Trail. Contact the Rivanna Conservation Society at (434) 589-7576 for more information on canoeing the river.

The most recent trail was begun in 2003 by the foundation using only their funds. This trail, known as the Heritage Rail Trail, follows the path that once belonged to the railway, parallel to the northern bluff overlooking the Rivanna River. It is lined by walls of slate, overhung by trees, and the river below. Observation benches, built by volunteers, allow walkers to view wildlife and the river.

The trail is maintained by an all-volunteer group and it is even used by runners for a local foot race. The Heritage Rail Trail begins in Palmyra from around the old town square, crossing the new bridge and back on to the main trails. Other trails are being planned and stabilization work has begun around the lands that were once dominated by an old grist mill and the canal locks.

The trails are used by Fluvanna residents, visitors and even the Fluvanna High School Flying Fluco cross country teams for practice. The new high school building has closed part of the western trail, but once the campus is complete, the trails will be re-aligned and re-opened. Hours of operation for all trails are from dawn to dusk.

The foundation asks that all visitors refrain from littering as trash cans are provided. Motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and cars are not allowed on the trail. Horses and their riders must remain on the trails marked for riders. And all dogs need to be on leashes. Smoking is not allowed on the trails to protect the trails from fire.

To volunteer with the foundation or support the Fluvanna Heritage Trail, visit the foundation’s website at http://fluvannaheritagetrail.org/ for the most current information on the trails or how to become a part of the foundation’s work.