Find the top rated birding trails in Harrisonburg, whether you're looking for an easy short birding trail or a long birding trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a birding trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
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Found this trail while scrolling for new places with nice scenery and this was definitely it ! I loved the smell of flowers as you walk by the trees and flower bushes. Will say it can be a bit confusing if you go off a bit off the trail that leads directly to the Monticello visitors area due to the lack of signs, so It’s best to use this app to help with the map, However, it was still great seeing all the greenery. Also the boardwalk views are amazing, highly recommend this trail, will be returning soon.
If biking, Afton is a better starting point than the West start. It's neat to be able to basically coast the entire tunnel, as the grade helps considerably.
The tunnel requires a light of some sort because while you can see the end, you are walking for about .84 miles in darkness. The flashlight is a nice addition to the hike, though, as you are able to see the differences in the tunnel as you progress from one end to the other. The parking lots on both the east and west end of the trail are small, but the west end does offer more room. It is also a steeper trail so keep that in mind; you will need to all back up unless someone meets you on the other side.
First... let me say I was nervous about the tunnel! But know that you can see “the light at the end of the tunnel” so I wasn’t claustrophobic,as I had feared. Know that they mean it when they say lights are required. Otherwise, you are not visible to other hikers even when you’re within arms length! We began at the Afton end and although we arrived before 10am all parking was taken. We ended up parking at the post office. As you exit the tunnel on the Waynesboro end there is a good uphill hike...a very distinct path/trail. The entire path is 2.5 one way. We saw plenty of dogs on the trail which was another question I had... we’re dogs allowed? As an added bonus it snowed! We saw
While this trail is good, you better get there early. Parking is incredibly limited and if you park out of the marked area, your car will get towed. Rude people abound.... Once in the tunnel, it is FULL of people with all manner of lights and kids shining flashlights in peoples eyes. There are better trails without the parking and crowd hassles.
Nicely maintained trail. The west side is a little steep. The actual tunnel is flat. Make sure to have a flashlight as it is pitch black in the tunnel. It’s a beautiful area and neat experience. Lots of history!
On my bucket list. 50 degree year round. Bring a light. Dark inside
The entire loop is walkable but only a small part can be biked. The two mile paved section along the river is good for biking. I usually just use it as a connector for a longer cycling route.
This is a good place for new cyclists to practice or for more experienced cyclists to connect through on a longer ride. The northern section is hilly but the southern end is more or less flat-ish.
I enjoyed riding here with my family. A little crowded but if I went earlier in the morning I am sure that would have been better.
The trail is great. Hard packed gravel or boardwalks take you from the parking area to the Monticello visitor center. There are 10 stunning wood boardwalks that take you along this tree lined path. It is a slight uphill all the way up - but then it’s a refreshing downhill back again. There are bathrooms and a small cafe at the Monticello visitor center as well.
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