Galax’s most popular hotspot, this stretch of the New River Trail State Park at a parking area on US-221 just west of the Chestnut Creek crossing, and continues for roughly half a mile before leaving the city limits. For the entirety of its length in Galax, the trail parallels Chestnut Creek, and is mostly riparian deciduous woods, backing up to cleared suburban yards in a few spots. Though unexceptional by most birding standards, this short stretch of trail has the distinction of being one of very few easily accessible birding spots in Galax, and perhaps the only easily birdable stretch of woodland habitat. It provides a familiar assortment of species, yet many are tough to find elsewhere in the city. During migration, this riparian habitat is excellent for a wide variety of passerine migrants, especially thrushes. Breeders include a variety of woodland species such as Wood Thrush, Black-and-white Warbler, and Red-eyed Vireo, as well as common suburban species including Carolina Wren, Song Sparrow, and Northern Cardinal. During the winter months, except the typical woodland suite including Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-throated Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and Brown Creeper. During the appropriate season, the creek can be good for waterthrushes. From the parking area, you can look across the street to the abandoned Vaughan Furniture Factory to see familiar urban denizens including pigeons, starlings, and House Sparrows. For those birders concerned with county listing, once you reach the bridge crossing Chestnut Creek, you will be exiting the City of Galax and entering Grayson County.
Accessibility: This portion of trail is part of the New River Trail State Park, and is open to the public from dawn to dusk each day. Parking requires payment of a fee at the self-service fee station in the parking area.
eBird Hotspot: New River Trail State Park--Galax
Owner/Manager: Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation
—Matt Anthony