Explore the New River State Park

For a peaceful 1-mile loop along one of the most ecologically interesting stretches of New River State Park, the Fern Nature Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes at the Wagoner Access. Set along the South Fork of the New River in Ashe County, about 8 miles southeast of Jefferson, this self-guided nature trail combines easy riverside walking with shaded forest, abundant ferns, and a network of short spurs that pair naturally with the broader Wagoner Access trail system. Be sure to check out the YouTube video and pictures below to get a feel for the trail before you go — or to relive the visit after.

A Self-Guided Nature Walk

The Fern Nature Trail is officially designated by the park as a self-guided nature trail, with interpretive features along the way that give visitors a deeper look at the riparian ecology of the New River corridor. Rated easy to moderate, the 1-mile loop is well-suited for hikers of all ability levels, with a mix of gentle riverside walking and a short climb into the woods.

The trail begins at the Wagoner Access and follows the New River for a peaceful stretch, with the slow-moving water just steps from the path. After climbing a small hill, the route descends into a shaded forest of tall trees with abundant ferns carpeting the understory — the trail’s namesake feature. The cool, green setting is particularly beautiful in spring and summer, when the ferns reach their full height, and the river views are at their best.

A Walk Through a Lush Riparian Habitat

What makes the Fern Nature Trail genuinely worth knowing about is its ecological character. The trail moves through the kind of riparian habitat that defines the New River corridor — the fertile, wildflower-covered banks of one of the oldest rivers in the world. Spring and early summer bring out an impressive display of native wildflowers, while the river itself offers chances to spot otters, beavers, deer, and woodland songbirds.

For longer outings, the trail also connects to the Running Cedar Trail — a 1.2-mile addition that takes its name from the running cedar plant (Diphasiastrum digitatum) that’s native to this region. Combined, the Fern Nature Trail and Running Cedar Trail give visitors a fuller exploration of the Wagoner Access forest and river ecology.

A Pairing-Friendly Loop

The Fern Nature Trail also serves as the gateway to the broader Wagoner Access trail system. The shorter Bluebird Spur — with its historic homestead chimney — branches off the loop, making it easy to add an extra short walk to your visit. For more committed hikers, the Riverbend Backcountry Trail extends from this part of the park to the primitive backcountry campsites along the river.

Plan on about 45 minutes to an hour for the Fern Nature Trail loop itself, with extra time built in if you’re adding any of the connecting trails to your outing.

Good to Know

Trail length: 1-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (per the park rating)
Surface: Natural, well-maintained
Self-guided nature trail — interpretive features along the route
Trailhead: At the Wagoner Access of New River State Park
Connects to: The Bluebird Spur, Running Cedar Trail, and Riverbend Backcountry Trail
Hike time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for the loop itself
Family- and dog-friendly — leashed dogs welcome
Located at the Wagoner Access in Ashe County, about 8 miles southeast of Jefferson

A Wagoner Access Highlight

The Fern Nature Trail is the kind of well-rounded loop that earns its place as a regular stop at the Wagoner Access. The terrain is varied, riverside walking is peaceful, the fern-carpeted forest is genuinely beautiful, and connections to other Wagoner trails make it easy to build a fuller outing. Whether you’re a curious traveler new to the New River, a family with kids interested in the self-guided interpretive features, or a regular settling into a familiar loop, the Fern Nature Trail is one of the most rewarding short hikes you can make in this corner of Alleghany and Ashe Counties.