Upper James River Water Trail in Virginia - Weekend Trip Report

by  barbcrane

A self-supported trip created by barbcrane

Trip Overview

Our group of 8 kayakers based in Daleville, VA to paddle 3 sections of the Upper James River Water Trail.

Day 1 was Eagle Rock to Horseshoe Bend, a trip of about 6 hours including a lunch stop. Plenty of Class 1s and a couple of easy Class 2s. Put-ins and take-outs are clearly marked and VERY easily accessible by state route 43 (Eagle Rock is on US Route 220).

Day 2 was Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan, about. 4 hour paddle with a lunch stop. One moderately tricky Class 2 at Ritchie's Falls, the rest easy riffles. Buchanan's public boat ramp is next to Twin River Outfitters, which has a nice shop and does a good variety of trips - great folks!!

We plan to make a return visit to take on the stretch between Buchanan and Alpine.

This was a beautiful, quiet, and very scenic paddle trip. Just make sure you have enough water - the Buchanan gauge should be over 3.5 feet or you are going to do some walking.

Accommodations:

Boat ramps and parking are good at all access points that we used. Restaurants in Buchanan, plenty of hotels in Daleville and the general Roanoke area.

Fees:

No fees, but you will need a license if you want to fish.

Directions:

I-81 to Buchanan, then State Route 43. Or, I-81 to Daleville, the north on US Route 220 to Eagle Rock boat launch

Resources:

website: www.upperjamesriverwatertrail.com

Also www.canoevirginia.net for Twin River Outfitters.

Trip Details

  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location