This Is Virginia’s Most Unique Old-Growth Conservation Area

Old-growth trees have always fascinated me. The forests of Virginia were once filled with giants known as American Chestnuts that, unfortunately, due to chestnut blight, were virtually eradicated in the early 1900s. These mighty "Redwoods of the East" once grew over 100 feet and could measure over 10 feet in diameter, creating quite an impressive canopy. Today, the American Chestnut is slowly being reintroduced, and fortunately, there are a few other areas where you can go to be among other old-growth trees in Virginia. One little-known place is called the North Creek Conservation Area. It's a designated conservation area and is considered a true wildland.

Throughout the twentieth century, the forests of the Appalachian Mountains were timbered heavily, wiping out some of the state's treasured hardwoods. Not all trees were lost, thankfully, and today, we're especially grateful for designated wildlands, such as the one we'll explore today. Thanks to this special distinction, they are protected from development and deforestation.

North Creek Conservation Area is located deep within Southwest Virginia's Appalachian Mountains, approximately seven miles from Buchanan, Virginia. It's accessible via some old logging roads as well as hiking trails, two of the most popular being the Thunder Hill Section of the Appalachian Trail and Apple Orchard Falls Trail.

The southern Appalachian Mountains are renowned for their biodiversity, which evolved because of the glaciers that covered the continent thousands of years ago. In the North Creek Conservation Area alone, it's estimated that there are over 1,300 acres of old-growth trees, many of which are at least 140 years old. The largest section of old-growth trees can be found near Floyd Mountain and the Cornelius Creek Shelter, although there are smaller old-growth areas scattered throughout the valley.

In addition to these magnificent trees, some of which include red oaks and towering evergreens, the region is rich in other native flora and fauna, including fern, wildflowers, salamanders, trout, and songbirds. This is a place to tread carefully, leave only footprints, and marvel at the beauty around you. Please note: If you plan on visiting this region in the late fall, consider wearing blaze orange. This mountain is a popular hunting destination after November 1st.

Have you had the chance to visit this special region of Virginia? Be sure to share this article with a fellow wildlife enthusiast! Learn more about how you can experience this otherworldly old-growth forest when you check out the Apple Orchard Falls Trail listing on AllTrails.

For related content, take a look at our list of the 10 most beautiful places to explore in Virginia.