The Craig-Botetourt Scenic Trail is a proposed 26-mile recreational trail that follows the state-owned corridor once occupied by the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Railroad. Trails of this nature benefit local communities by increasing the number of locals and visitors that will frequent nearby current and potential restaurants, snack and coffee shops, outfitters, and short-term rentals, such as cabins or cottages. Similar trails have been shown to have positive impacts on local economies.
In addition to increased economic activity, studies show that access to parks and trails has a positive impact on fitness and health. Proximity to trail facilities increases the likelihood individuals will utilize the trail for exercise. During a time where our nation is seeing all time high obesity rates, access to parks and trails is critical for community health.
Trail Development
The land for the proposed trail has been publicly owned by the Commonwealth of Virginia since 1961 when it was conveyed to them by the Western Pocohontas Corporation. The over 300-acre tract of land is at least 100 feet wide along its entire length. In 2022, the General Assembly created a State Office of Trails and appropriated $89 million for five priority trails across Virginia which included the Craig-Botetourt Scenic Trail. At their September 2022 meeting, the Commonwealth Transportation Board authorized up to $1 million dollars to support pre-construction planning activities for the Craig-Botetourt Scenic Trail.
In September 2023, the Virginia General Assembly passed the 2023 state budget in Richmond. Among the many bills passed, the State Trails Office appropriated approximately $54 million to be allocated to state trail projects (Item 451 #1h). One of those trails receiving funds is the Craig-Botetourt Scenic Trail (listed in the state budget as the “Craig Valley Trail”) which was allocated $12.5 million. Dollars allocated by the state for this project cannot be allocated to another local project.
The Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail generally follows Craig Creek and runs 26 miles from New Castle in Craig County to Eagle Rock in Botetourt County. It is anticipated to be a gravel trail that utilizes existing railbeds and some shared roadways. Funding is anticipated to go toward trail improvements and amenities, such as bridge repairs and preparing the multi-use trail surface that would be utilized for walking, running, biking, and horseback riding. The proposed trail will provide opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with the scenic beauty of Craig and Botetourt counties and Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Roanoke Regional Partnership assisted Botetourt County and Craig County with securing funding for planning efforts through the Virginia Department of Transportation, and Delegate Austin has been instrumental in providing trail funding to support advancing this new trail asset. Thanks to their diligent efforts, the region is poised to see another potential trail asset that will continue to enhance Virginia’s Blue Ridge as a premier location to live, work, play, and visit.
Although many details about the project are still being determined, VDOT has provided answers to some of the more frequently asked questions regarding the proposed trail. These answers are based on VDOT's current understanding of the project. This information may change as the project progresses and more details become available.
Want to learn more about the proposed trail?
VDOT’s project page with extensive FAQs