The Jackson River contributes a distinct and scenic landscape feature, while providing a natural habitat for reproducing wild trout. The Jackson River starts at Lake Moomaw, where water is released from the Gathright Dam, and flows 43.5 miles to where it merges with the Cowpasture River and forms the James River. The Jackson is an excellent smallmouth bass, rock bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout fishery.
Note: their is a mandatory takeout on the Jackson River between miles 24-26.
The Jackson River Scenic Trail is a cinder rail trail that parallels the Jackson River for about 16 miles.
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