Evans Tract on Cowpasture River

Description

Elevation: 1137 ft.

Evan’s Tract provides access to Cowpasture River and its adjoining fields and woodland. The numerous hay fields in this area support a variety of open country species such as northern bobwhite, indigo bunting, and song sparrow. The neighboring woodland edges hold expected species such as red-bellied and pileated woodpeckers, blue jay, American crow, Carolina wren, northern cardinal, American robin and American goldfinch. The banks of the river should be checked for great blue and green herons as well as the occasional wood duck or belted kingfisher. Damselflies also frequent the river and both powdered dancer and American rubyspot are plentiful. The hay fields along the river attract a variety of butterflies including eastern tiger and spicebush swallowtails, eastern tailed-blue and a confusing array of duskywings and skipper.

Notes:

• The original access point of this site near the Evans Tract boat ramp is only walkable in winter or early spring due to unmanaged fields and high grasses.
• To access it any time of year, use the coordinates below to find the entrance to the Forest Service road running through the tract.

Directions

Physical Coordinates: 37.80055, -79.74816

From Clifton Forge, head east on US-60 Business E/Main St toward Jefferson Ave, turn right onto SR-632/Longdale Furnace Rd, continue onto VA-269 E/Longdale Furnace Rd, turn right onto SR-633/Sharon Ln, turn right to stay on SR-633/McKinney Hollow Rd, and the entrance to the Forest Service road is on the right in approximately 0.4 miles.