- Highlights: Lake views
- Distance: 4.5 miles out and back
- Elevation Change 190 feet
- Trail Surface: dirt
- Difficulty Level: Easy/moderate
- Trailhead Parking: Pocahontas State Park, Central Area parking lot, trailhead is near the boat ramp. Park entry fee required.
- Website: AllTrails and Pocahontas State Park
- Beer Pairings: Dancing Kilt Brewery: Boogieman IPA & Bitter Duergar
The Hike:
Pocahontas State Park is home to over 90 miles of trails. Many of these trails are multi-use. We have nothing against cyclists and horses, but we prefer “hiker-only” trails, such as the Co-op Trail.
The trailhead is next to the boat launch area on Swift Creek Lake. Follow the footbridge over the lake and bear right, following signs for the pink-blazed Co-op Trail. The trail travels beside the lake much of the way. In the warmer months, leaf cover may limit some of the lake views.
Reach a marked trail junction at 1.6 miles. Continue straight here following the pink blazes. The trail to the left will be the return trail for this hike. The trail becomes the silver-blazed Troopers Tribute Loop which continues beside the lake.
The silver trail soon curves away from the lakeshore and enters a ravine. At the next trail junction, stay left following signs to the Boat Ramp Bridge and pink-blazed Co-op Trail. The trail descends down to the ravine and then bear right to rejoin the Co-op Trail. The lake will now be on the left as you retrace your steps to return to the parking area and your vehicle.
Hike Photos:
Click on an image below for an enlarged view.
Beer Pairing:
Dancing Kilt Brewery is located about 12 miles from the park in nearby Chester VA. This fun brewery has 16 beers on tap, wine, a variety of food items, and indoor and outdoor seating. Dogs are welcome on the patio. They have live music on weekends.
Pete really liked Duergar (4.2% ABV • 34 IBU), an English Bitter session ale. At pubs in England we always ask for the “best bitter” Duergar was just like a best bitter across the pond. Kathy liked Bogieman (9.4% ABV • 59 IBU), a west coast style imperial IPA. The floral and citrus notes are not overwhelming and it’s nicely dry hopped.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.