Hours
Monday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PMTuesday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Channels Introduce
The Channels is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers located in Rosedale, Virginia. Known for its unique and fun hiking trails, The Channels offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. Nestled in the beautiful Virginia landscape, this hidden gem provides a perfect combination of challenging terrain and serene natural beauty, making it a popular spot for hikers, campers, and families seeking adventure.
The Channels features a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, from easy strolls through scenic areas to more challenging routes. The 3-mile hike is manageable for most visitors, with half of the trail being on a gravel road and the latter part requiring some rock climbing. Despite its challenges, the hike is described as "easy" by many visitors, making it accessible for families and casual hikers.
One of the standout features of The Channels is its namesake water channels, which are cool and refreshing, especially on hot summer days. These channels offer a fun and interactive element to the hiking experience, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the natural water formations. The trails are well-marked, making it difficult to get lost, so even first-time visitors can confidently navigate their way through.
Visitors should note that parking at The Channels is limited, with only 10 numbered spots available near the entrance. To avoid parking issues, it's recommended to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon during weekdays. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, so planning ahead is essential for a smooth visit.
- Open Hours: The Channels is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore the trails and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Unique Features: Known for its scenic water channels and gravel pathways, The Channels offers a mix of adventure and relaxation in one location.
- Facilities: Basic amenities such as restrooms and drinking water are available to ensure visitors have everything they need for a day outdoors.
Customer feedback highlights the uniqueness and fun aspect of The Channels, with many visitors describing it as an "absolute must-visit" destination. Hikers appreciate the ease of navigation and the challenging yet manageable terrain, while families love the interactive water channels that make the experience memorable for children. One visitor noted, "I absolutely recommend it," emphasizing the beauty and accessibility of the trails.
If you're looking for a fun and unique outdoor adventure in Virginia, The Channels is the perfect spot to explore nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this hidden gem offers something special for everyone who loves hiking and natural beauty.
Location
Customer Reviews
One of most unique and fun places I’ve ever hiked to in Virginia. Defiantly worth it a visit. The parking is very very limited. I believe only ten numbered spots at the mouth of a private road. There are multiple signs warning that you could get ticketed or towed if you don’t park in a numbered spot so don’t do it. If full your best shot is late afternoon or first thing in the morning on a weekday. The Hike wasn’t too bad I believe 3 miles up a slight grade but nothing crazy.
The hike is long ish (4-4.5hrs) but it’s easy. Half is a gravel road. Only towards the top are there a few rocks to get over. The channels are fun to explore and cool on a hot day. Don’t worry about getting lost in the channels, I can’t imagine how you’d manage that. I absolutely recommend it. Beware, there are 10 parking spaces. That’s it. Go in the morning before 10 and you’ll be okay.
There are several trails to reach the channels. We took the shortest trail (3 miles from parking). The hike was mostly on gravel and old abandoned forest roads, so nothing to write home about-though there were some nice wildflowers. The channels lie at the top of the ridge (not exactly what you expect for slot canyons), but it was like walking in a fairytale. Absolutely amazing. We stopped on the outcrop by the CCC-era fire tower (not maintained unfortunately so you can't climb it) and ate lunch then wandered the channels for about an hour. Well worth the hike
We went father's day weekend and had a great time!! We do recommend you get there early for parking if you don't want to wait for a spot. There were only about 10 spots were we went in and was being regulated. We had a great hike up with the dogs. Once we got to the tower we had a little trouble finding the path to the channels. There is a sign but it took a little locating because of the plant growth, just look a little and keep going past the tower. The little maze was worth doing. When we got back down there were a few people waiting for parking spots.
Amazing place for a hike! There are two options to get to the channels, first you can go into the Hidden Vally side for a 10.5 mile hike or make it easier by starting on hayters gap side which is only 3.5 miles. The hikes are mostly uphill but once at the channels you will be amazed. The sight is breathtaking, after viewing everything from atop the huge rocks, you can follow the trail that leads to many “channels” between the rock making it a bit of a labyrinth of sort. We had a great time here, but be very careful and make sure you have plenty of hydration one slip someone could really injure themselves.
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