Broad Run Trail

This popular trail in Craig County, VA follows Craig creek and weaves in and out of the mountains.

Broad Run Trail is a 10-mile off-road route located in Craig County, Virginia, within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The trail is known for its scenic beauty, featuring multiple water crossings and a variety of terrains.

overlandexpo.com

Key Details:

• Open: Year Round
• Time to Complete: Approximately 1 hour
• Distance: 10 miles
• Highest Elevation: 2,161 feet
• Fuel Availability: Gas stations are accessible in nearby towns such as Roanoke and New Castle, Virginia
• Camping: Dispersed camping is available along the route. Travelers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and check for any required permits or fees

Trail Characteristics:

The trail begins as a county or state road and transitions into a forest service road, closely following Broad Run for the first half. There are ten water crossings along this section, which can become deep and challenging during periods of heavy rain, potentially making the road impassable for some vehicles.

trailsoffroad.com

During normal water conditions, these creek crossings are considered moderately challenging.

The trail is generally stock-friendly, suitable for vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive and appropriate ground clearance to Ford over various parts of the creek, the deepest can upwards of 36″.

Preparation and Safety:

• Vehicle Requirements: A four-wheel-drive vehicle with adequate ground clearance is recommended.
• Weather Considerations: Check weather forecasts before your trip, as water levels in the crossings can rise significantly after rainfall.
• Navigation: Carry a detailed map or GPS device, as cell service may be unreliable in this remote area.
• Camping: If planning to camp, ensure you are familiar with dispersed camping regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.

For a visual overview of the trail, you might find the following video helpful:

Member Photos of Broad Run:

Want to contribute to this page?

If you have images, information or insights to this trail, email us and let us know. We will update the page with your media or information, even if you are not a member.