Forest Exploration trailhead at Pocahontas State Park: A relaxing hike with lots of nature views!

As the largest state park in Virginia, Pocahontas State Park offers multiple trails and activities. We recently hiked part of the Forest Exploration Trail and found it ideal for hikers of all abilities! You will need to park at the boat ramp to access the bridge where the trail begins. 

Once you've crossed the bridge, turn right and follow Forest Exploration over a stream. When you arrive at a point where you could go either right or left, choose left. This makes a complete loop, and you will be back down by the water where you started the hike. There is a bench here that overlooks the lake. We saw geese, ducks, and fish while taking a break on the bench. There are also a few benches along the way. 

Highlights of the hike include the tree identification trail, fallen trees, and finding bird tracks.  Consider printing the Junior Ranger booklet before visiting to add to the adventure, if you have little kids with you. Your children can complete some of the activities at home and some while hiking. Once they've completed the minimum for their age, they can earn a Pocahontas State Park Junior Ranger badge! 

If your kiddos still have energy after the hike, walk or drive up to the playground, where there is a pretend ice cream store, slides, and a tunnel. The park is also home to a Nature Center, where you can see fish and turtles, too! There are restrooms near the playground and also inside the Nature Center. It costs $7 to park, which you will pay upon entering the park.