North River Gorge Hike - 2-4 miles, easy.
Pink Ladyslipper. Photo by Lynn Cameron
North River Gorge is known for its scenic beauty, its clean water, its wildflowers, and its unique hanging bridge. The trail follows an old railroad grade, making good hiking for families and people of all ages. A 5-mile section of North River Gorge is eligible to be designated as a National Scenic River. The entire North River Gorge lies within the proposed Shenandoah Mountain National Scenic Area.
From Stokesville, take State Road 718 through North River Gap. Once you enter the George Washington National Forest, this becomes Forest Road 95. Park in Wild Oak Parking Lot on the right of FR 95. Take the Wild Oak Spur Trail about .2 mile to Wild Oak Trail. Turn left on Wild Oak Trail and continue .8 mile across FR 95 and on to the North River where the trail follows the river upstream. Cross the river on a swinging bridge and continue to walk along the river . This trail is rich with wildflowers in spring, and it's also quite beautiful in the fall in peak leaf season. In about two miles, the trail crosses the river. At this point, you can double back unless the water is low enough to cross.
Follow Google directions on how to get to Stokesville.
From Stokesville, take State Road 718 through North River Gap. Once you enter the George Washington National Forest, this becomes Forest Road 95. Park in Wild Oak Parking Lot on the right of FR 95. Take the Wild Oak Spur Trail about .2 mile to Wild Oak Trail. Turn left on Wild Oak Trail and continue .8 mile across FR 95 and on to the North River where the trail follows the river upstream. Cross the river on a swinging bridge and continue to walk along the river . This trail is rich with wildflowers in spring, and it's also quite beautiful in the fall in peak leaf season. In about two miles, the trail crosses the river. At this point, you can double back unless the water is low enough to cross.
Follow Google directions on how to get to Stokesville.
