Upcoming Events
To see the most updated list of events taking place at New River Trail State park, see the link below.
B.A.R.K. Ranger Walk
Where
Program Location: Cliffview - 451 Cliffview Rd. Galax, Va 24333
Main Park Address: New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
When
Sept. 5, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join us on a ranger-led hike to certify your canine companion as a New River Trail State Park B.A.R.K Ranger!
The B.A.R.K. Ranger program teaches dog owners about the importance of following the Rules of B.A.R.K. while visiting parks. Dogs completing this program will be sworn in as B.A.R.K. Rangers and receive a certificate.
What does B.A.R.K. stand for?
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
• Bag your pet’s waste
• Always keep your pet on a leash
• Respect wildlife
• Know where you can go
The hike will last approximately one hour and cover 1-2 miles. Be sure to wear closed toed shoes and bring water to drink. Leashed dogs are welcome. The trail surface is crushed stone and a gentle grade. This program is weather dependent. Please check our event listing on the New River Trail website for cancellations.
Meeting Location: By the gazebo in the Fries parking lot
Our programs are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all. If you require accommodations or assistance to participate, please contact us in advance at 276-699-6778. We are committed to ensuring accessibility for everyone.
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Haunted History: Fries, VA
Haunted History: Fries, VA
Haunted History: Fries, VA
Where
Program Location: Fries Access- 323 Firehouse Dr. Fries, Va 24330
When
Oct. 16, 2026. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Join us for a lantern-lit walk through the historic town of Fries, VA. During this guided walk, a park interpreter will share stories of local history and the remains of the once thriving textile industry, and some local ghost st
Where
Program Location: Fries Access- 323 Firehouse Dr. Fries, Va 24330
When
Oct. 16, 2026. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Join us for a lantern-lit walk through the historic town of Fries, VA. During this guided walk, a park interpreter will share stories of local history and the remains of the once thriving textile industry, and some local ghost stories.
Registration is required, so please call the park office at 276-699-6778 to sign up. Please meet at the Fries Access parking lot, dress for the weather, and wear sturdy shoes. You should expect to walk on crushed gravel, pavement, uneven terrain, and in a low-light setting. This tour is about one mile long.
Other details
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov
art in the park
Haunted History: Fries, VA
Haunted History: Fries, VA
Where
Program Location: Discovery Center - 116 Orphanage Dr. Max Meadows, Va. 24360
Main Park Address: New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
When
Sept. 5, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Art in the Park programs explore connections between art and the natural world through a hands-on project each month.
This month
Where
Program Location: Discovery Center - 116 Orphanage Dr. Max Meadows, Va. 24360
Main Park Address: New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
When
Sept. 5, 2026. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Art in the Park programs explore connections between art and the natural world through a hands-on project each month.
This month's program is Paper Making!
Want to reduce, reuse, and recycle? Join a ranger for a paper making session where you'll learn how to turn trash into treasure. During this program, you will turn old paper into usable paper to take home.
Meeting location: The Discovery Center in the Historic Village at Foster Falls
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov
Upcoming Meetings
New River Trail Challenge Triathlon
New River Trail Challenge Triathlon
Next Friends meeting date:
TBD
Where:
Discovery Center, Foster Falls
New River Trail Challenge Triathlon
New River Trail Challenge Triathlon
New River Trail Challenge Triathlon
Sept. 19, 2026
Welcome to Virginia's longest and longest-running adventure triathlon.
Track Trails
Fries Track Trail!
Where
New River Trail State Park,
Fries Access- 323 Firehouse Dr. Fries, Va 24330
When
Jan. 1, 2026 12:00 a.m. - Dec. 31, 2026 12:00 a.m.
Go on a hiking adventure with Track Trails! Choose from a variety of our track trails brochures at the kiosk and learn something new about the history of Fries or nature. Don't forget to track your adventure on the website to earn prizes that will help you on your next hike. This is a self-guided opportunity.
