Nature’s Roar and Iron’s Echo: Hiking the Roaring Run Loop Trail

Within Jefferson National Forest in Botetourt County VA, the Roaring Run Trail offers hikers a blend of nature and history. This popular trail provides a scenic escape into the Appalachian wilderness. Along the way, you’ll discover one of the region’s industrial relics: the Roaring Run Furnace.

Interpretive signs at the furnace site provide context and historical background, helping you understand the significance of the furnace and the broader iron industry in Virginia.

The Roaring Run Loop Trail is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through time. Whether you’re drawn by the serene environment, the historical significance of Roaring Run Furnace or simply the joy of being in nature, this trail offers a little something for everyone.

If you enjoy waterfall hikes, check out the variety of waterfalls hikes in the mid-Atlantic region!

The Loop Hike at Roaring Run

Two trails lead to the falls creating a 1.5-mile loop trail. Most visitors use the Streamside Trail on their way up to the falls, returning on the Woodland Trail. The trail begins near the Roaring Run stream. The stream, a crystal-clear waterway that carves its way through the forest, creates a series of cascading waterfalls. As you hike up to the falls, you’ll cross the stream several times over picturesque wooden bridges. As you hike, you’ll enjoy a lush landscape of hardwood forests, moss-covered rocks and a variety of plant life. With just over 300 foot elevation gain, the trail maintains a gentle grade. The relatively short distance—under a mile each way—make it accessible to hikers of all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.

About halfway along the Woodland Trail, the foliage opens up to reveal the Roaring Run Furnace, a stone structure that stands as a monument to Virginia’s 19th-century iron industry. Built in the 1830s, the furnace was once a bustling center of iron production, where workers used the region’s abundant natural resources—iron ore, charcoal and limestone—to produce pig iron. This iron was then transported to other locations for further processing into tools, machinery, and other goods that fueled the nation’s growth. Though the furnace ceased operations in the late 1850s, the structure remains remarkably well-preserved.

Know Before You Go

For those looking to extend their adventure, the trails connect with other paths in the Jefferson National Forest, offering opportunities for more challenging hikes and exploration.

There is plenty of parking at the trailhead, which is good — this is a very popular trail! Rustic facilities are available a very short distance up the trail.

Detailed directions to the trailhead: From I-81, take exit 150 to U.S. 220 north and travel 21 miles. Turn left onto Craig Creek Road (Rt 615) and go 5.5 miles. Turn right onto Roaring Run Road (Rt 621). After a mile, the entrance to Roaring Run Furnace will be on your left.

Getting there: 450 Roaring Run Road, Eagle Rock, VA
Hours: Daylight
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gwj/recreation/recarea/?recid=79950&actid=50