Rock Castle Gorge National Recreational Trail

Floyd County

This spectacular area is recognized as a National Recreational Trail due to the great biological diversity, the historical significance, and the challenging nature of the 10.8-mile loop trail. Located adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway, this area features 60 species of native trees, 25 species of delicate ferns, and over 200 species of wildflowers. It also provides insight into a community of 30 families that carved out a living among these 4,000 acres over a century ago. In the springtime to early summer, nearly 200 varieties of wildflowers are visible along the trail area. You'll see tunnels of rhododendron and other thick mountain foliage, a splashing stream, and high open meadows. The entire loop is 10.8 miles and the elevations range from 1,700 to 3,572 ft. A few small historic structures are visible along the trail, including a Civilian Conservation Corps camp.