Hike the Tobacco Heritage Trail- Dec FSO!

December 7, 2024
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us for a 5.5 mile hike at the Tobacco Heritage Trail in South Boston, Virginia. This will be DRBA’s last First Saturday Outing (FSO) of the year on December 7.  This hike is suitable for most ages and abilities with a small moderate section. The compacted crushed stone surface of the trail makes it an easy walk, and, like most rail trails, the path is relatively level.  Outings and meetings of the Dan River Basin Association are open to the public without charge.

Participants should plan to meet at the Historic Berry Hill Plantation Maintenance Parking Area, 3105 River Rd, South Boston, VA 24592 (36.697516, -78.941569) at 10:00 am. Google Directions

Along the route, participants will see/experience natural and historic features unique to this area. The Tobacco Heritage Trail (THT) is meandering and rather flat to slight incline cinder/gravel trail that is well maintained with recreational use to include trail running, equestrian, hiking, walking and biking. The original 2.5mile trail terminated near a natural geographic formation named by locals as “Tree in Rock” that is very close to the Dan River. The trail has since been extended to 3.9 mile out and back (7.8 miles total). We will explore the newest section which gives access to the location of Irwin’s Ferry that instrumental in the pivotal “Retreat to the Dan“ on February 14, 1781.

The trail has a lot to offer history buffs and naturalists alike. You will cross several streams; Pond Branch, Estes Run and several other small free flowing streams that were part of this vast plantation.  There is the historic “Diamond Hill” African American Cemetery, views of the Dan River, a natural spring and several unique historic and geologic points of interest which all were once part of the Berry Hill Plantation.

Participants in DRBA’s outing are asked to bring lunch and water. Dress in layers of synthetic fabric or wool, wear hiking boots or walking shoes, and be prepared for wind or rain. If desired, bring a walking stick or poles. All participants are asked to sign a waiver.

NOTE: If for any reason the event needs to be cancelled, visit www.danriver.org by Friday, DAY BEFORE OUTING to determine whether the outing will be held.

Questions about this outing should be directed to Carl Espy, (434) 470-1424 or email espy4@mindspring.com

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Directions

US 58 (1007 Philpott Road) Riverdale, Virginia 24592

Follow Main St to Factory St in South Boston - 1 min (0.5 mi)

Take Berry Hill Rd to State Rte 659 - 7 min (3.4 mi)

Turn left onto State Rte 659 - 1 min (1.0 mi)

Turn left onto Berry Hill Ln - Destination will be on the left

2 min (0.8 mi) - 36.6975157, -78.

About DRBA

Outings and meetings of the Dan River Basin Association are open to the public without charge. For information about the Dan River Basin Association, visit www.danriver.org.