As the heat wave abates in the weeks ahead, a walk in the woods holds great appeal, and Lake Martin offers more than 150 miles of options. From the footpath-only CRATA trails to Wind Creek State Park and Russell Forest, each of the area’s hiking, biking or horse trails shares its own spectacular beauty, wildlife and geographical features. It’s not unheard of to run up on a roosting bald eagle along the cliffside of the Deadening Trail; to happen across a rare bottomland wildflower on the return hike from Smith Mountain Fire Tower; or to hear a turkey call when strolling the Big Way through Russell Forest.
And now, Lake Martin Tourism rewards hikers who complete mileage on 10 or more local trails. Earn a Lake Martin Hiking Challenge patch upon logging miles and sending your trail record to the tourism office. Visit explorelakemartin.com for the hiking challenge details; then, strap on your boots, grab a staff and hit one of these delightful trails.
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