Hickory Spring

## Overview Hickory Spring is a public drinking spring located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Nellysford area of Virginia, nestled in the scenic highlands near the boundary of Augusta and Nelson Counties. Situated at an elevation consistent with the upper stretches of the Parkway, this spring has long served as a refreshing stop for travelers exploring one of America's most celebrated scenic drives. The water from Hickory Spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by Parkway visitors and locals alike, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. The Blue Ridge Parkway itself was constructed during the 1930s as a New Deal public works project, and many of the natural springs along its route — including Hickory Spring — became valued rest stops for motorists and hikers. The surrounding landscape features the characteristic hardwood forests of the central Blue Ridge, with hickory trees among the dominant species, likely lending the spring its name. ## Directions 1. Travel along the **Blue Ridge Parkway** in the area between **Humpback Rocks** (near Milepost 6) and the intersection with **Route 664** (near Milepost 13.7). 2. Watch for the spring on the side of the Parkway — it is located near **50 Old Camp Lane, Nellysford, VA 22958**. 3. GPS coordinates: **37.923652, -78.9663537** — use these for precise navigation, as the spring can be easy to miss from the road. 4. Parking may be limited to Parkway pull-offs or overlooks nearby, so approach slowly and watch for a small turnout. *Note: The Blue Ridge Parkway is subject to seasonal closures, particularly in winter months. Check the National Park Service website for current road status before planning your visit.* ## What to Expect Hickory Spring is a roadside spring along the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it relatively easy to access without a long hike. Visitors can expect a natural spring outlet in a forested mountain setting, surrounded by the mixed hardwood canopy — including hickory, oak, and tulip poplar — that defines this stretch of the Blue Ridge. The area is especially scenic during fall foliage season, typically peaking in mid-to-late October at this elevation. The spring has been reported to flow year-round, though flow rates may diminish during dry summer months. As with any natural spring, water quality is not officially monitored or guaranteed — visitors who choose to drink should be aware that conditions can change with weather and season. The spring sits at roughly 3,000 feet in elevation, contributing to the cool, clean character of the water that visitors have historically enjoyed. The stretch of Parkway between Humpback Rocks and Route 664 is one of the more popular sections for day hikers and sightseers, so the area can see moderate traffic during peak season (spring through fall). Nearby attractions include the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center, the Humpback Rocks Trail, and several scenic overlooks.