Franklin County Blueways are an exciting way for beginners and experts to experience the beauty of nature in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Pigg River Blueway is an enjoyable 8-mile float which takes you through some of Franklin County’s beautiful wooded landscapes and farmlands. The historic waterway from Waid Park to Lynch Riverside Park, was a transporation lane for Franklin County’s iron industry in the 18th century. The Pigg River Blueway also is home of the annual Pigg River Ramble. 

The Blackwater River Blueway offers a pleasant 8-mile float from Brubaker Park (Intersection of Coles Creek Road and Hickman Road) to the intersection of Jamestown Road and Blue Bend Road, and a 34-mile float from Brubaker Park to Smith Mountain Lake. From the Blue Ridge to the lake, drift, fish and swim while enjoying the beauty of Franklin County. The Blackwater Blueway also is home to the annual Blackwater Blackout, preceding the Pigg River Ramble.

The Smith River Blueway is a cold water release float from Philpott Dam to Bassett with put-in locations in Franklin, Henry and Patrick Counties. Located at the base of Philpott Reservoir, the Smith River has strong and challenging currents during water releasing times.