There is something about the colors of fall that make it the best season to paddle down the Dan River. Luckily for river enthusiast, the newly improved Settle Bridge Dan River access allows river goers an easier way to reach the river just in time to enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. This section of river offers great view as there are no roads…just 2 bridges and gorgeous landscapes. There are multiple access points downstream allowing one to plan a short trip (4 miles downstream is the Dan River Game Lands access) or a longer trip (10 miles downstream is the Leaksville Landing access located near downtown Eden).

Before now, this popular Rockingham County access had been prone to frequent erosion and deposition issues caused by major water level fluctuations of the Dan River and seasonal flooding. In an effort to provide adequate parking, and a safe and sustainable river access, Rockingham County TDA collaborated with Dan River Basin Association to renovate the Settle Bridge Dan River Access.

• The project, which began in April 2021, set forth to address three main recommendations:
• Recondition the existing landing from the parking area to the staging area,
• Install new galvanized metal steps with railing, landing, and boat slide from the staging area to the river that would replace existing steps consisting of railroad crossties and concrete fill,
• Update interpretive signage to be placed on the kiosk in the parking area.
• The completed project, which wrapped up in September 2022, features improvements such as:
• Packed gravel ramp leading from the parking area to the staging that will allow for visitors to easily walk from the parking area to the river access, and better accessibility to the river for rescue vehicles.
• Installation of new galvanized metal steps with railing, landing, and boat slide from the staging area to the river.

Updated river access sign at the informational kiosk in the parking area, and an additional DOT directional signs (standard brown and white boating access) that can be viewed on Settle Bridge road, and along Dan River road to indicate that boaters are in the correct location. "The Rockingham County TDA is an amazing partner to work with and the Settle Bridge River Access renovation couldn’t have been completed without their investment," said Tiffany Haworth, Executive Director of DRBA. "This dedicated group of people fully understand and value the importance of building a strong outdoor recreational economy in their community – it’s good for the health of their citizens, it’s good for their tourism, and it’s an important investment in clean water for future generations."

As always, when venturing onto any of Rockingham County’s blueways, make sure you "know before you go and leave no trace." Be sure to know your route including where you are putting into the river and where you plan to get out. Know what lies ahead including potential dam locations and skill-level recommendations. Always travel waterways in pairs or small groups, never alone and always with a personal floatation devices. Protect our outdoor spaces by taking all of your trash with you to dispose of properly.