Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation adopts updated master plan for High Bridge Trail State Park

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 20, 2026
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, [email protected]

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation adopts updated master plan for High Bridge Trail State Park

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: High Bridge Station)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: High Bridge aerial)

GREEN BAY, Va. - The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced the official adoption of the updated High Bridge Trail State Park Master Plan, reaffirming the long-term vision that will guide future development, trail enhancements and public access improvements along the 32-mile rail-trail.

This update replaces the previous master plan adopted in 2007 and last revised in 2012. It focuses on improvements that will expand connectivity, strengthen regional partnerships and enhance visitor amenities.

A central feature of the update is the planned acquisition and connection of High Bridge Trail to the Town of Burkeville. This important milestone will extend the final mile of the trail, which is currently still owned by Norfolk Southern.

Additional updates and park development will continue through a phased approach as funding becomes available:

• Phase 1 focuses on the Burkeville extension, improvements to historic High Bridge and associated trailheads, safety enhancements and additional visitor amenities, including a picnic shelter and restrooms.
• Phase 2 includes lighting enhancements and increasing recreation amenities at trailheads in towns and villages located along the trail, such as parking and rest areas, and continued trail surface improvements.
• Phase 3 addresses long-term park needs that support increased visitation and sustainability.

"The updated master plan for High Bridge Trail State Park reflects DCR's commitment to creating exceptional outdoor recreation experiences while supporting the communities that make this trail so special," said DCR Director Nikki Rovner. "Completing the Burkeville extension and moving forward with phased improvements will ensure the trail continues to grow as a top rail-to-trail destination."

"Connecting High Bridge Trail to Burkeville would be a tremendous step forward for the community," said Burkeville Mayor Gerald Smith. "This long-awaited link will bring new visitors, strengthen local businesses and deepen our partnership with DCR. We look forward to working with the Commonwealth and Norfolk Southern to complete one of Virginia's most loved rail-trails."

The master plan update was reviewed and approved by the DCR Board of Conservation and Recreation in spring 2026 and formally adopted by Director Rovner in June.

"High Bridge Trail State Park continues to evolve in ways that enhance the visitor experience while preserving the unique character of the trail," said Park Manager Daniel Jordan. "The improvements outlined in this updated master plan will strengthen our ability to welcome increasing numbers of visitors, support year-round recreation and ensure this historic trail is protected for future generations."

To learn more about the master plan, please go to

https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/recreational-planning/document/mp4hbexecsum.pdf.

For more information about High Bridge Trail State Park, visit www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/high-bridge-trail.

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About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks' activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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