Narrows: River Landscapes, Trails and History

Narrows combines a striking river landscape with hiking and cycling routes, as well as a layered local history. You can easily distinguish the main themes as you plan your trip: the narrow stretch of the New River shapes the town’s name and landscape; trails let you explore the surroundings on foot or by mountain bike; and historic sites tell stories of mills, railroads and local development. Which of these aspects interests you most can guide your choice of accommodations in Narrows.

The New River and the Narrows

The New River runs through the heart of Narrows. The town was named for the geological narrows where the river is at its narrowest, between Peters Mountain and East River Mountain. The river and mountains are therefore fundamental to the town’s character: its name refers directly to the landscape rather than simply to a historical connection. The New River rapids are another distinct feature of the river landscape. Near Narrows, the river has Class III rapids.

Hiking, Mountain Biking and Cycling

For a hike, the Rice Field Day Hike is listed as a 5.2-mile out-and-back route, with a difficulty level ranging from moderate to strenuous. More challenging hiking and mountain biking trails lead from Mill Creek Nature Park to Jefferson National Forest. These descriptions cover different options: a specific out-and-back route, on the one hand, and trails that connect to the National Forest, on the other.

A local cycling route follows Lurich Road for 6.5 miles along the New River. Together with the hiking trails, it offers another way to compare your options: the Rice Field Day Hike has a stated out-and-back distance and difficulty level, while the cycling route is described by its length and path along the river. Check local conditions for the cycling route. This will help you choose between a hike, more challenging trails for hikers and mountain bikers, and the cycling route described here, without treating the different details as equivalent.

Since April 1, 2026, Camp Success has been open to the public for river access and simple camping. Check current conditions before your visit if you plan to use this access. The history of the name Camp Success also points to the past: a Confederate Army camp was located near the site from 1862 to 1865.

Local History in Buildings and Memorial Sites

The Narrows Commercial Historic District developed along the Cumberland Gap Turnpike, whose route formed the district’s two main streets. The railroad history also goes back a long way: the Norfolk and Western began operating in Narrows in 1864. The Norfolk and Western Depot is listed as Stop 12 in Narrows.

The MacArthur Inn opened in 1942 as the Hotel General MacArthur. It was the first building in the United States named after the World War II general. The Mill Dam was originally built before the Civil War to power a gristmill. In 1986, the community launched an initiative to rebuild the dam. These sites illustrate different chapters of local history, from transportation and buildings to community involvement.

Centennial Park was dedicated in 2004 to mark Narrows’ 100th anniversary. The Mural of Narrows, created by S. S. “Brick” Marunich, was added in 2013. These dates place the memorial sites in the town’s more recent history, while the Mill Dam and Commercial Historic District point to earlier developments.

Practical Information About the Town

The Narrows Farmers Market is downtown at 135 Monroe Street. The market has a covered pavilion and restrooms. It’s a useful landmark if you’d like to get to know the town center. With its river landscape, trails, historic buildings and visitor amenities, Narrows offers a range of themes to explore during your stay. Tailor your hotel search to the aspects of the town described here that matter most for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Rich Creek, Pearisburg, Norfolk.

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