Hidden Valley in the George Washington National Forest in Virginia

Just six miles from The Inn at Gristmill Square bed and breakfast is beautiful Hidden Valley, surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia. Part of the George Washington National Forest, Hidden Valley has changed so little since the Warwick Mansion was built there in the mid-1800s that the area was used to film the 1993 post-Civil War movie Sommersby. According to publicity releases, after a search in 15 states, Hidden Valley was chosen because "its rugged and remote hill overlooking the pristine Jackson River presented an unspoiled, stark but picturesque setting. You could shoot 360 degrees and not know you were in the 20th century."

Happily, this is not just Hollywood hype. In any direction you gaze, there are no high-power utility lines cutting across the hillsides or communication towers and radio dishes rising above the ridges. In fact, other than the Warwick Mansion and its few outbuildings, a couple of George Washington National Forest Service structures, an old, overgrown fence line, and a dirt road that part of the hike follows, there is scant evidence of humans ever having been in the valley.

Archaeological digs indicate the presence of Indians in the valley more than 8,000 years ago. The first settlement by European immigrants wasn't established until 1740, but only the most skilled researcher could find any trace of this small community that was abandoned after being burned by the French and Indians in 1754.

The 6.5 miles of the Jackson River offer excellent fishing for stocked and native trout and other cold water fish species. Approximately 2 miles of the Jackson River is a Special Regulation Area with restrictions on fishing methods and size. Contact the District for an update about fish stocking.

Hidden Valley Hiking Map The 20 miles of hiking trails offer excellent opportunities for enjoying scenic views, fishing and hunting access, and for mountain biking. From the parking area, you can take a fairly easy loop hike of 5.5 miles that takes you along the Jackson River on one side and cross a suspension bridge to return on the other.

180 acres of early succession hayfields offer viewing of woodchucks, deer, rabbits, and early succession wildlife. Hunting is popular during the autumn game seasons and spring gobbler season. Please check the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries for hunting seasons and regulations.

The Poor Farm was named for the home operated last century by the Commonwealth of Virginia for needy people. The Poor Farm is located at the north end of Hidden Valley and is accessible by walking forest trial 481 for 4 miles. Vehicle access is available from Warm Springs by traveling north on Route 220 for 9.5 miles and turning left onto State Route 623. Travel 2.3 miles to the Poor Farm.

How To Get There:
From Warm Springs, take State Route 39 west for 3 miles. Turn right onto McGuffin Rd. (State Route 621) and travel 1 mile and turn left on Hidden Valley Rd. Travel 2 miles to enter Hidden Valley.

More Info:

Warm Springs Ranger District
Route 2, Box 30
Hot Springs, VA 24445

(540) 839-2521

Hidden Valley Recreation Area