JORDAN ROAD TRAIL
Mountain road/trail, 2 miles from Buena Vista
6.6 miles (out-and-back) - 1001 ft. elevation gain
6.6 miles (out-and-back) - 1001 ft. elevation gain
One of Rockbridge’s unknown treasures, Jordan Road Trail passes through National Forest land and ends at the Blue Ridge Parkway. This centuries-old, handmade wagon road is in amazingly good condition, considering its age and the fact that it gets almost no maintenance. The grade is perfectly even (check out the awesome elevation profile), and comfortable for running as well as for its original purpose of horses pulling wagons.
One runner reports he has run this trail scores of times and has yet to encounter another runner. Some parts of the trail are completely covered with moss, and it’s like running on a cloud. Because it gets so little use, it can be dangerous when the leaves have fallen, as they can cover rocks and sticks that can be a tripping hazard. After a storm there can be trees down on the trail, and it could be a long time before they are removed. If your pace allows it, please take the time to toss a rock or branch off the trail; we’ll all benefit from it.
There is parking for a few cars at both the top and bottom of the trail. If you want to make it a longer run you can park at Mountain View Elementary School, or the former South River Market. You can also make this a loop by running for a mile or two along the Parkway and then taking Rt. 60 down to Buena Vista, turning right on Catalpa and continuing until you get back to Jordan Road.
One runner reports he has run this trail scores of times and has yet to encounter another runner. Some parts of the trail are completely covered with moss, and it’s like running on a cloud. Because it gets so little use, it can be dangerous when the leaves have fallen, as they can cover rocks and sticks that can be a tripping hazard. After a storm there can be trees down on the trail, and it could be a long time before they are removed. If your pace allows it, please take the time to toss a rock or branch off the trail; we’ll all benefit from it.
There is parking for a few cars at both the top and bottom of the trail. If you want to make it a longer run you can park at Mountain View Elementary School, or the former South River Market. You can also make this a loop by running for a mile or two along the Parkway and then taking Rt. 60 down to Buena Vista, turning right on Catalpa and continuing until you get back to Jordan Road.
Website created and maintained by Laurel Worth Sheffield. © Friends Of The Chessie Trail