hanover opens first regional segment of fall line trail

Hanover County leaders, regional and state partners, and enthusiastic trail users gathered in Ashland on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate the long-awaited opening of Hanover’s 4.8-mile section of the Fall Line trail.  

The new section connects the Ashland Trolley Line Trail, through Hanover County, to Woodman Road in Henrico County, marking the completion of the trail’s first regional segment. When finished, the scenic recreational corridor will span 43 miles across seven localities. 

Hanover Fall Line trail represents community connection

“Projects like the Fall Line demonstrate what can be accomplished when localities and partners work side by side,” Hanover County Administrator John A. Budesky said. “This new section creates fresh opportunities for exercise, recreation and connection that Hanover residents can enjoy right away.” 

F. Michael Herzberg IV, chair of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the trail. 

“We are building more than pavement,” Herzberg said. “We are building good connections between communities. This trail is an investment in our future, and the Board looks forward to seeing it enjoyed by generations to come.” 

Ashland Mayor Steve Trivett said the regional investment will bring lasting benefits, not only for Ashland but for every community along the trail route.  

“This will attract visitors, spur small business growth and strengthen our economy while enhancing quality of life for residents,” Trivett said. “It reflects the shared prosperity of Ashland, Hanover County and our regional partners, and we welcome the opportunities it brings for our future.” 

Henrico County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Roscoe D. Cooper III emphasized the trail’s regional significance and ongoing expansion. Design work is underway to extend the trail an additional 7.5 miles, linking Hanover’s section to Henrico’s existing portion in Lakeside. 

“The completion of this northern segment highlights the true regional nature of the trail, stretching from Ashland and Hanover into Henrico, with a bridge over the wild and wonderful Chickahominy River,” Cooper said.  

fall line trail to tie region together

Conceptualized in 2019 and championed by the nonprofit Sports Backers, the Fall Line aims to create a connected system of destinations that promotes active living and accessible recreation. Once completed in 2030, the trail will stretch from Ashland to Petersburg, winding through forests, farmland, neighborhoods and commercial areas in Hanover, Henrico and Chesterfield counties, Richmond and Colonial Heights. It will ultimately link to the Virginia Capital Trail and the Appomattox River Trail, forming the backbone of Central Virginia’s trail network.   

“The Fall Line is more than a trail. It is a new corridor of community connections that expands opportunities for active living and highlights the natural beauty of Central Virginia,” said Will Dixon, Executive Director of Sports Backers.