Poplar Forest Parkway

The Poplar Forest Parkway created a new 2.2-mile road and trail system that reshapes how visitors experience Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Bedford County, Virginia, just outside Lynchburg. The Poplar Forest Parkway turned arrivals and departures into a curated journey through the historic landscape. Designed principles that highlighted the pristine beauty and historical significance of the site, the project blended landscape, visitor experience, and the cultural features of this Thomas Jefferson’s summer home.

CHALLENGE

Poplar Forest is an experience, and its new entrance needed to reflect the historic significance of this property. Visitors wanted a more direct and scenic route that didn’t compromise the site’s historic character or the natural landscape. The roadway had to feel intentional and immersive, minimize impacts to sensitive waterways, and still function as a safe, modern access route for daily visitor traffic.

SOLUTION

The project delivered a 2.2-mile, two-way parkway and trail network that begins at the gate and guides visitors through the time-honored grounds that are reminiscent of the landscape that President Jefferson would have enjoyed. Key featured included:

• A parkway-style road aligned to showcase agricultural and natural vistas.
• A connected system of trails, overlooks, and interpretive stops.
• Five stream crossings designed to minimize impacts while preserving views along the water.
• A more direct entry/exit route that replaces the previous circuitous approach, improving circulation and overall visitor experience from the moment guests enter through the Enterprise Drive gate.