A “blueway” or “water trail” is a small boat or paddling route along a waterway that combines recreation and environmental awareness while linking communities and land-based attractions such as historic sites and parks. The Upper James River Water Trail was created by Botetourt County to
encourage residents and visitors to experience the beauty and history of one of the county’s greatest natural treasures.
The mighty James River finds its source at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture rivers in Botetourt County. These headwaters commonly known as the Upper James River have played an important role in the economies of the communities located along the river. Historically, the river was used as a transportation system with a series of locks and canals used to carry goods downstream towards Lynchburg. Today, the river is a recreational corridor used for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and water viewing along its 45-mile stretch in Botetourt. The major assets of the Upper James River include its scenery, world-class bass fishing, friendly small town atmosphere and its rich history and diverse character.
In order to capitalize on the many assets that the Upper James has, Botetourt County has begun to undertake a strategic analysis of how to improve, enhance and preserve the environmental, historic and recreational opportunities on the river for future generations to enjoy. The goal is to create a water-based trail system that will link the different assets found on the river to form the Upper James River Water Trail.
The Upper James River Water Trail Committee
The Upper James River Water Trail Committee envisions a water-based trail system that will provide opportunities for recreation, conservation, tourism and education while preserving the natural, historic and cultural resources along the river.
The mission of the Upper James River Water Trail Advisory Committee is to help established a water-based trail by:
1. collaborating with other stakeholders;
2. planning for future trail development;
3. effectively marketing the trail; and
4. advocating and supporting conservation and preservation of the Upper James’ natural resources.
Goals and Objectiveswere developed to address the issues and opportunities that were identified by the Advisory Committee.
Goal #1 - Increase Public Access to the River
A. Improve existing access points to allow a variety of recreational types such as boating, fishing, picnicking and river viewing.
B. Target locations for new access points that create convenient opportunities to easily access areas that are currently difficult to reach by boat and/or car.
C. Improve signage at access points to identify and welcome visitors.
Goal #2 - Develop an Identity for the Upper James River Water Trail
A. Determine thematic and character areas that help create a “brand” for the Water Trail that summarize its character and opportunities.
B. Develop a Blueway Trail signage program to help identify and raise awareness of the Water Trail and to provide navigational aids.
C. Develop a marketing program and materials that identify potential visitors and reach out to them using a variety of promotional tools.
Goal #3 - Develop A Sustainable Tourism-Based Economy
A. Identify and encourage independent projects that will assist in the revitalization of the Water Trail Corridor such as trails, parks, scenic byways, downtown revitalization, etc.
B. Protect water quality by encouraging infrastructure improvements, reduction of sedimentation and restoration of riparian vegetation where appropriate.
C. Protect ecologically sensitive waterfront resources
D. Educate visitors through the use of interpretive signage, displays, pamphlets, etc.
Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for a way to:
Meet new people?
Learn more about the James River and its natural resources and recreational opportunities?
Apply your skills and knowledge to a great cause?
Help save the natural beauty of the James River?
Join UJRWT’s passionate, energetic and dedicated volunteers! There are plenty of opportunities to help us protect natural lands on and around the Upper James River Water Trail.
If you are interested in volunteering please send us an E-mail or call 540-473-1167.
Water Trail Partners and Supporters
Upper James Resource Conservation and Development Council - The purpose of the Upper James RC&D is to initiate, develop and promote regional projects benefiting outdoor recreation, land conservation, water resources and environmental education in a sustainable way.
To manage Virginia's wildlife and inland fish to maintain optimum populations of all species to serve the needs of the Commonwealth;
To provide opportunity for all to enjoy wildlife, inland fish, boating and related outdoor recreation and to work diligently to safeguard the rights of the people to hunt, fish and harvest game as provided for in the Constitution of Virginia;
To promote safety for persons and property in connection with boating, hunting and fishing;
To provide educational outreach programs and materials that foster an awareness of and appreciation for Virginia's fish and wildlife resources, their habitats, and hunting, fishing, and boating opportunities.
VDGIF is responsible for the management of inland fisheries, wildlife, and recreational boating for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
TheVirginia Department of Conservation and Recreation - The Department of Conservation and Recreation works with Virginians to conserve, protect, and enhance their lands and improve the quality of the Chesapeake Bay and our rivers and streams, promotes the stewardship and enjoyment of natural, cultural and outdoor recreational resources, and ensures the safety of Virginia's dams.
The Virginia Tourism Corporation - VTC serves the broader interests of the economy of Virginia by supporting, maintaining and expanding the Commonwealth’s domestic and international inbound tourism and motion picture production industries in order to increase visitor expenditures, tax revenues and employment
The James River Association - The mission of the James River Association is to be guardian of the James River. We provide a voice for the river and take action to promote conservation and responsible stewardship of its natural resources. We achieve these goals through four core programs: Watershed Restoration; Education and Outreach; River Advocacy; and our Riverkeeper program.
The Roanoke Regional Partnership has created Roanoke Outside to highlight the region‘s phenomenal outdoor amenities and opportunities.
Thank you to our latest sponsor nTelos! Check out their local portal My nTelos
communities and land-based attractions such as historic sites and parks. The Upper James River Water Trail was created by Botetourt County to
