Low Moor: Nature, River and History

A stay in Low Moor can focus on nature or history in different ways. Options include the Alleghany Highlands YMCA’s short Outdoor Nature & Sensory Trail, access to the banks of the Jackson River, and connections to industrial history and historic buildings. If you’re looking for a hotel in Low Moor, you can start by deciding whether an outdoor walk, river access or local history will shape your stay.

Nature and River Access

The Alleghany Highlands YMCA’s Outdoor Nature & Sensory Trail in Low Moor is about 0.25 miles long and has places to rest and relax. This makes it a compact outdoor activity, quite different from an extended hike. Two details can help with planning: the approximate trail length and the places where you can rest. If you don’t want to plan your stay around a long route, the trail length can give you an idea of the scope of this nature experience.

There is riverbank access on the Jackson River near Low Moor. From the Low Moor exit off I-64, take Route 1101; the access point is signposted. This involves a different planning consideration than the trail: route directions matter for river access, while the YMCA trail is defined by its approximate length and places to rest. The route description comes from a 2017 water access guide. Before setting out, check whether the directions are still current.

Architecture and Local History

Humpback Bridge is located near Low Moor. It was completed in 1857 and is the only surviving covered bridge with a curved span in the United States. Its significance combines a specific completion year with a distinctive architectural form. Those interested in architectural history will find a different focus here than at the trail or river access: the bridge’s covered structure and curved span take center stage.

The Low Moor Iron Company is also part of the area’s history: it was founded around 1874. The site of the former company is now used by Alleghany Regional Hospital. The two dates mark different historical reference points in the 19th century: the bridge’s completion in 1857 and the company’s approximate founding date. The topics also differ: the bridge is notable for its design and preservation, while the company relates to industrial history and the current use of its former site.

The cemetery of Oakland Grove Presbyterian Church in Low Moor contains the graves of twelve Confederate soldiers. This connection relates to one specific cemetery and differs from both the architectural history of Humpback Bridge and the former company site’s subsequent use. Together, these offer different points of interest for travelers interested in the area’s history: a structure with a distinctive span, the development of a company site, and the graves in a specifically named cemetery.

For the broader travel overview: Alleghany County.