The Shadow
HOT SPRINGS, Va. (VR) – Under clear blue skies on a warm, sunny Thursday morning, a large crowd gathered to celebrate a significant milestone for outdoor recreation in the region: the ribbon cutting for the new Cedar Creek Trailhead on the Jackson River Scenic Trail.
The event marked the completion of a 1.6-mile trail extension, bringing the total length of the trail to 16 miles. What makes this section particularly special is that it crosses privately owned land donated by Mike Hillier, who generously provided trail and trailhead easements to Alleghany County. This contribution allowed the trail to extend for the first time into neighboring Bath County.
The new Cedar Creek Trailhead includes the same user-friendly amenities as the popular Intervale trailhead, offering parking, signage, and trail access.
Nestled near the banks of Cedar Creek and framed by the majestic mountains of the Alleghany Highlands, the site showcases the natural beauty of the region.
Josh Taylor, executive director of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees and praised the community support that made the project possible. “This is more than just a trailhead,” he said. “It’s a gateway to adventure, connection, and economic opportunity.”
Jon Fitzgerald, president of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Board, noted the impact on visitors. “I overheard someone say, ‘How beautiful our area is,’ and that really says it all. This is a big deal for the Alleghany Highlands and Bath County.”
Mark Shore, executive director of Visit Bath, echoed the sense of collaboration, saying, “It’s been so inclusive to have a partnership across the line, and I’m very grateful for that.”
Special remarks were also delivered by Dr. Elda Stanco Downey, regional director for U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, who shared that she would be recommending a move of the senator’s Roanoke office to the Alleghany Highlands, given the energy and momentum of the area. “It is joyful to see firsthand how government investment can make a real difference in communities,” she said.
Virginia State Senator Christopher Head (District 3) called the site “the most beautiful part of the Commonwealth,” urging the audience to pause and listen. “You can hear the handiwork of God Almighty all around you,” he said. “People come to places like this to reconnect—with nature and with themselves.”
Following the ribbon cutting, guests enjoyed food and refreshments and had the opportunity to explore the new trail firsthand. Alleghany Outdoors was on site with bikes for attendees to ride, and many eagerly took to the trail to experience its natural charm.
The event was hosted by the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, Bath County Chamber of Commerce, Alleghany Highlands of Virginia, and Visit Bath Virginia—highlighting a shared vision for regional growth through outdoor recreation.
Christopher Mentz photos
