Hiking at Twin Lakes State Park

Beaver Point Trail

The Beaver Point Trail is a 1 mile, moderate difficulty trail that runs along the east bank of one of the narrow extensions of Prince Edward Lake. This trail is accessible only from the Otter's Path Trail. The trail dead-ends at the tip of the peninsula, so a full hike will be two miles long. Hikers will encounter thickets of mountain laurel and areas of fresh water marsh on their journey to the point. Use caution as portions of this trail are very steep for short distances. The narrow path and overhanging plants are a haven to ticks so users should use bug repellent with DEET and check for ticks after completing this hike.

Blaze Color: Green

Usage:

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Between The Lakes Trail

The Between the Lakes Trail, also known as the connector trail, is .25 mile, moderate difficulty trail that runs between Goodwin Lake and Prince Edward lake. The trail passes through the 18 acre Between the Lakes Nature Area that lies astride the isthmus between the lakes. The trail is accessed from the beach area of Goodwin Lake and the Otter's Path Nature Trail that encircles Prince Edward Lake.

Blaze Color: Yellow

Usage:

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Dogwood Hollow Trail

The Dogwood Hollow Trail is 1 mile, moderate difficulty loop that takes users through a heavily wooded ravine or hollow. The trail may be accessed from near the park office. In addition to a variety of trees including Virginia's state tree, the dogwood, hikers may also see some interesting mushrooms and animal life such as the white-tailed deer.

Blaze Color: Blue

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Goodwin Lake Nature Trail

The Goodwin Lake Nature Trail is a 1.5 mile moderate difficulty interpretive trail that encircles Goodwin Lake, taking users through the wooded environment of the west end and then passing through the recreational area along the east end. This trail has several stops with signs identifying and describing plants and animals that users might encounter along the trail.

Blaze Color: Blue

Usage:

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Otter's Path Nature Trail

The Otter's Path Nature Trail is a 4 mile, moderate difficulty loop that primarily follows the shore of Prince Edward Lake and is accessible from the Connector Trail, the Conference Center, Cedar Crest Road, and from the prince Edward Lake boat ramp area. The trail provides access to the Beaver Point Trail. This trail includes some significant changes in elevation and is the longest, as well as the most challenging, trail in the park. Among some of the plants seen on this and other trails in the park are the sassafras, sweet gum, oak, loblolly pine, cedar and seasonal wildflowers. Animals such as the elusive otter, the white-tailed deer, beaver, blue and green heron, and a variety of reptiles may often be seen along the lake shore.

Blaze Color: Orange

Usage:

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Prince Edward-Gallion Multiuse Trail

Prince Edward-Gallion Multiuse Trail is an 8 mile moderate trail that goes through the state forest available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Users are likely to see a variety of trees in this oldest Virginia state forest and will also see a variety of typical woodland wildlife. Users should be warned, this trail does not loop. Those who access it off of Hwy 613 should be prepared to travel 8 miles each way for a total of 16 miles. Users should be cautious of rough terrain and overgrown vegetation, plus the ticks that can be hiding around it. A State Forest Use Permit is required to bicycle or horseback ride on the trail. The trail is closed except on Sundays from early November through mid-January due to hunting.

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High Bridge Trail State Park

High Bridge Trail State Park is a multi-use trail ideally suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Its centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 160 feet above the Appomattox River. The bridge was built in 1853 as part of the South Side Railroad. The High Bridge played a significant role during Lee's retreat in the final days of the American Civil War, and was the site of two battles in April 1865. Except for High Bridge itself, all 30 miles of this linear park's trails are open. Work on access to the bridge continues, but the bridge can be seen from certain sections of the trail. The bridge is slated to be open to the public in late 2011. Visitors are strongly encouraged to be sure to bring plenty of drinking water. No drinking water is available on the trail.

• Season/Hours: Year Round/Call Park
• Fee:
• Location:37° 18.4117, -78° 23.2288