A unique feature of the dam at Holliday Lake State Park is the foot bridge that spans the top of the spillway. This narrow bridge enables hikers along the Lakeshore Trail to circle the entire lake. This bridge was added years after the dam was built.
The terrain is very steep on the north-facing side of the dam. So steep that wooden steps were built to give hikers full access to this trail. These steps were repaired slightly about two years ago to continue safe and comfortable access for our hikers.
The fall is a great time to hike this trail or any trail in the park. With fall colors brilliant and the temperatures cooler, it's a very pleasant hike.
Anytime of the year, you can look out over the lake from the narrow foot bridge and see the concession stand the beach area.
If you turn around and look to the other side of the dam, you will see the continuation of Holliday Creek about 60 feet below. It flows into the Appomattox River in about a quarter mile.
The Lakeshore Trail is a bit of a walk (6.3 miles). The dam is about half-way, so there are no shortcuts. But it's a lovely hike any time of year. You might be lucky enough to see an osprey or a bald eagle. You are likely to see river otters, white tail deer and many birds.
So pack a snack or lunch and come on out to Holliday Lake State Park to enjoy some time outside. The park is open from daylight until dark every day of the year.
The Lakeshore Trail is 6.3 miles and considered a difficult hike, so not for the faint of heart. See all of the hiking trails at Holliday Lake State Park here, for shorter hikes like the Dogwood Ridge Trail which is only .7 of a mile and an easy hike for the whole family.
Holliday Lake State Park is located off State Route 24 between Appomattox and U.S. 60 and from Routes 626, 640 and 692. Holliday Lake State Park is approximately 12 miles from the Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park.
Drive Time: Northern Virginia, three and a half hours; Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, four hours; Roanoke, two hours.
Holliday Lake State Park, 2759 State Park Road, Appomattox, VA 24522; Phone: (434) 248-6308.
There are 35 Virginia State Parks to choose from, where do you want to go?
