Hiking

The Appalachian Trail crosses the New River valley, visiting overlook sites such as Angel's Rest and Wind Rock. For more information on area hikes in the Jefferson National Forest, contact the Blacksburg Ranger Station (110 Southpark Dr., Blacksburg. 540/552-4641). The 4-mi loop at Cascades Recreation Area (Jefferson National Forest, off U.S. 460, 4 mi north of Pembroke on Rte. 623) passes a rushing stream and a 60-foot waterfall. This hike is popular locally and becomes crowded on weekends when the weather's good.