For Hikers
Glasgow is a recognized Appalachian Trail community. Hikers stop here for resupply, rest, and a free overnight at the Glasgow hiker shelter on their way north or south.
Glasgow hiker shelter
Address: 1429 – 1437 Kanawha Street, Glasgow, VA 24555
The shelter is open to AT thru-hikers and section-hikers and offers:
No reservation needed. Please pack out your trash and respect the neighbors.
James River Wilderness Area
The James River Wilderness Area is a 9,000-acre tract known for its biodiversity and well-maintained trail system. Elevations range from 650 ft to 3,073 ft. Six named trails are contained within the wilderness.
Directions: US 11 South to Route 130 East, right on Route 759, left on Route 781.
Popular hikes near Glasgow
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail crosses Glasgow at US 501 / VA 130 — northbound mile 775.3 from Georgia. Open year-round.
Natural Bridge State Park
A short drive from Glasgow. Trails include Buck Hill, Cedar Creek, and the Blue Ridge Trail. See dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-bridge.
Devil’s Marbleyard via Belfast Trail
A 4.5-mile out-and-back, rated difficult. Famous for the field of house-sized boulders at the top. Wildflowers in spring. Dogs allowed.
Gunter Ridge Trail
Begins off Gunter Ridge Road and climbs switchbacks to the top of Gunter Ridge in the James River Face Wilderness. Joins the Belfast Trail and connects to the Appalachian Trail. Horse-friendly — hikers should yield to horses.
Sulphur Spring Trail
5.6 miles out-and-back, moderate. Best March – November. Dogs allowed on leash.
Wildcat Trail
3.9 miles out-and-back, difficult. Wildflowers and birding. Access through Cave Mountain Lake.
Balcony Falls Trail
7.6-mile moderate hike. Old roads at the start; the trail climbs into the James River Face Wilderness for views of the James River. Open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Parkway runs 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. Trailheads near Glasgow give access to the broader Blue Ridge network.