Booker T Washington National Monument

On April 5, 1856, a child who later called himself Booker T. Washington, was born in slavery on this 207-acre tobacco farm. The realities of life as a slave in piedmont Virginia, the quest by African Americans for education and equality, and the post-war struggle over political participation all shaped the options and choices of Booker T. Washington. Washington founded Tuskegee Institute in Alabama in 1881 and later became an important and controversial leader of his race at a time when increasing racism in the United States made it necessary for African Americans to adjust themselves to a new era of legalized oppression. Visitors are invited to step back in time and experience firsthand the life and landscape of people who lived in an era when slavery was part of the fabric of American life.

12130 Booker T. Washington Highway
Hardy, VA 24101
540-721-2094

By Plane
Air service is available to both Roanoke, VA (25 miles from the park) and Lynchburg, VA (50 miles from the park).

By Car
The park is located in Franklin County, VA, 16 miles northeast of Rocky Mount, VA via VA 40E and VA 122N; 25 miles southeast of Roanoke, VA via US 220S, VA 40E, and VA 122N; and 50 miles southwest of Lynchburg, VA via US 460W and VA 122S.

By Plane
Public transportation to the park is not available. A personal or rental vehicle is required.

Getting Around
All trails are limited to pedestrian traffic.

The summer months are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The coldest months are December, January and February. The spring and fall seasons have moderate temperatures. Wear comfortable sportswear appropriate to the season, with walking shoes. Trails are unpaved and may be muddy at times.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Educational Programs
• Hiking
• Bird Watching

Recommended Activities
Plan to stay for one or two hours to view the exhibits and video program in the visitor center and visit the historic area. Plan to spend an additional hour walking Jack-O-Lantern Branch Heritage Trail. Allow time to browse in the Eastern National bookstore and enjoy lunch in the picnic area.

Trails:
The Plantation Trail is a 1/4 mile loop walking trail through the historic area of the park.
Jack-O-Lantern Branch Heritage Trail is a 1 and 1/2 mile loop walk through woods and fields.

Programs/Activities:
A ranger-led tour is given daily at 2:00 p.m.

Educational Programs:
Curriculum-based education programs are offered Monday through Friday as weather and staff availability permit. These tours generally last 45 minutes to one hour. Reservations are required in advance. To reserve a date for a program, call the park at (540) 721-2094.

Picnicking: A shaded picnic area with tables, grills, and a water fountain is available to park visitors at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis.