The local government agencies support and provide excellent emergency services - don't risk their lives by risking yours. Horses with and without riders and hikers are common. Use caution when approaching and overtaking horses. Wildlife is plentiful and protected. Limited access is provided to safe water - carry your own or filter.
Poisonous plants border the trail in several locations.
The locals take trespassing serious - ask before camping. Summers in the New River Valley are hot and humid. Sudden releases of water can occur from the dams. North is used to describe direction on the NRT toward Pulaski, Virginia. South is used to describe direction on the trail toward Fries or Galax, Virginia.