Where History Meets Wide-Open Adventure.
Whether you're a local looking for a favorite weekend loop or a traveler discovering Southwest Virginia for the first time, the Salt Trail offers a refreshing mix of outdoor recreation and historical richness you won’t find anywhere else. Come explore the path that shaped a community and still inspires everyone who walks it.
Perfect for hikers, bikers, families, and casual wanderers.
Interpretive markers bring Saltville's fascinating past to life.
Birding hotspots, peaceful habitats, and plenty of chances to spot something unexpected.
The Salt Trail Current State
Trail Updates After the Storm
Hurricane Helene left its mark on our region, including the Salt Trail. While sections of the trail are untouched and make for a great trail experience, the section containing the Clinchburg Trestle is currently closed for safety reasons.
Choose Your Own Adventure!
The Salt Trail Map
The Salt Trail can be started at either end. The Saltville Trailhead sits right in downtown Saltville near Salt Park and the Downtown Commons, with convenient parking and quick access to shops and amenities. At the other end, the Glade Spring Trailhead offers a quieter starting point with parking just off Old Mill Road, close to Glade Spring and I-81 Exit 29.
Along the route you’ll cross several memorable railroad trestles. Trestle #1 and the Tin Bridge Trestle are favorite scenic highlights, offering big views and great photo spots. The Clinchburg Trestle area is also a notable landmark, though that trestle is temporarily removed due to damage. Follow here for the most recent updates- found above.
Rules of the Trail
Know Before You Go
Stay on marked sections of the trail to protect wildlife habitats and keep the route safe for everyone.
Pack out everything you bring in, including snacks, wrappers, and anything that wants to blow away on the breeze. Help keep the trail clean, healthy, and postcard-ready.
Hikers, bikers, runners, and families all use the Salt Trail. Keep right, pass with care, and give a quick heads-up when approaching others.
Leashed dogs are welcome. Be sure to clean up after them so the trail stays enjoyable for everyone.
This is home for countless birds and animals. Watch, admire, snap photos, but avoid feeding or disturbing them. Your quiet presence helps the ecosystem thrive.
User Submitted Photos
Scenes From The Salt Trail
The Salt Trail
History That Walks With You
Walk The Story of Saltville
About Us
Partners of The Salt Trail
On The Trail Blog
Trail Tips, Wildlife & What's New
June 20, 2022
A Guide to Birding in Saltville
Content provided by Monica S. Hoel and Katie Cordle, Virginia Master Naturalists Top 4 Birding Hot Spots in Saltville Because Saltville is a rare inland marsh habitat, it provides a uniquely exciting location for birding. Migrating birds stop over for rest, food, and shelter while migrating – and birders get to reap the wonder of […]
Read More ➜
July 01, 2022
Fishing at Big Tumbling Creek
Content and photos provided by Travis Proffitt If you’re thinking about a day of trout fishing deep in the Appalachian Mountains, images of deep forests, moss-covered boulders, and plunging waterfalls likely come to mind. Those images will come to life for you when you spend some time on Big Tumbling Creek, just a short drive […]
Read More ➜
January 19, 2023
A Bird for Every Season
The way you mark the changing of seasons reveals a lot about you. If you know it’s fall because the World Series is wrapping up and the Lady Vols are suiting up, that probably identifies you as a sports fan. But if you’re aware that summer is over because the visitors to your bird feeder […]
Read More ➜FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Trail Questions
Is the Salt Trail open right now?
Yes, the trail is open and accessible from the Glade Spring trailhead, and the downtown Saltville trailhead. Portions of the trail are undergoing renovations due to Hurricane Helene. Check our latest updates for current access and progress.
Can I walk, bike, or run the trail?
Yep. The Salt Trail is a multi-use path designed for hikers, bikers, runners, and casual strollers.
Are pets allowed?
Absolutely! Well-behaved pets are absolutely welcome, please keep them leashed, and clean up after them.
Where can I park to access the trail?
Public parking is available at the Glade Spring trailhead and the downtown Saltville trailhead (adjacent to the Town Commons). Parking is free.
How long is the Salt Trail?
The trail currently has 8.5 miles of walkable trail, running from downtown Saltville to the town limits, and then from Old Tin Bridge Trestle to roughly the town limits of Glade Spring.
Is the trail good for families and beginners?
For sure. The smooth grade and scenic pace make it friendly for families, first-timers, and laid-back explorers.
When is the best time for birding?
Early mornings and spring migration season are prime times for spotting all kinds of species along the trail
Are there bathrooms or facilities along the trail?
There are currently no public bathrooms located on the trail.