- Highlights: York River views, wetlands, wildlife, history
- Distance: 5.8 miles out and back
- Elevation Change 39 feet
- Trail Surface: dirt and gravel
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Trailhead Parking: 3601 Timberneck Farm Road, Hayes, VA. Follow signs to “trailhead parking”. Park entry fee required.
- Website: Machicomoco State Park
- Beer Pairings: That Damn Mary Brewery: Proud Mary IPA & Funked Cluster IPA
The Hike:
Machicomoco is one of Virginia’s newest State Parks. This small park (645 acres) is home to diverse wildlife habitats, from open fields to woodlands and waterfront/marsh areas. The park is still a bit of a work in progress as more trails and facilities are planned.
The park currently has three hiking trails. Our hike combines two of them: the blue-blazed Forestry Trail and the red-blazed Interpretive Trail. From the trailhead parking area, follow the the blue-blazed Forestry Trail as it meanders through a meadow. In the warmer months, the meadows are full of wildflowers, birds, and wildlife.
Follow the Forestry trail through wooded areas and more meadows. At 1.3 miles, the trail intersects with a road leading to a boat launch area. Follow the road to the right down to the launch for some nice river views.
Continue to follow the blue blazes and at 2.4 miles, reach a trail junction. The Forestry Trail ends here. Bear right on the red-blazed Interpretive Trail. A wood boardwalk leads to some nice views of Timberneck Creek and the York River.
High on a hill overlooking the York River is Timberneck House, a 17th century farmhouse which is currently being restored. Follow the red trail past the farmhouse to the river overlook. Take in the views and retrace your steps back to the parking area and your vehicle.
Hike Photos:
Click on an image below for an enlarged view.
Beer Pairing:
Just a few miles from the trailhead is That Damn Mary Brewery. The brewery is connected to Mobjack Tavern and together they offer beer, wine, cocktails, and Mobjack Tavern’s full menu. Indoor and outdoor seating is available and dogs are welcome on the patio.
Mary’s team makes some good beer! Kathy really liked Proud Mary (8.4% ABV • 40 IBU), their flagship New England-style IPA. With 8.4% ABV, it was a bit higher in alcohol but was nicely hopped and just the right level of bitterness. Pete liked Funked Cluster (6.8% ABV • 50 IBU), a west-coast style IPA. It has less alcohol and a higher IBU than Proud Mary. The food at Mobjack Tavern is also good and both beers paired well with our pizza and fish tacos.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.