About this place

The Locher Tract is a 378-acre area that was once the Locher family farm, where they mined shale to sell to the brick-making plant across the river in Glasgow. Birdwatchers will enjoy a variety of common and unusual species including Pileated Woodpecker, American Goldfinch, Prothonotary and Prairie Warbler. Deer, turkey, rabbits, and other small game thrive in the woods and grassy areas, while the pond is home to waterfowl and beaver. The Locher Tract also serves as one trailhead for the Balcony Falls Trail, accessing the James River Face Wilderness. From U.S. Highway 130: Turn onto State Route 759 at Natural Bridge Station. After crossing the James River at the Greenlee bridge, turn left onto State Route 782 and continue past the end of state maintenance, onto Forest Service Road 3093. You will pass the Jelly Stone (Private) Campground. This gravel road will end at the parking lot for the Locher Tract.