Virginia has something for everyone. Beaches, lakes, mountains, and must-see historical locations. It also is an outdoor lover’s paradise and perfect for those Insta pics! There are so many adventures to choose from including a National Park! Here are some to add to your list!
Shenandoah National Park
Everyone can agree that Shenandoah National Park is amazingly beautiful and diverse. There are so many activities that you can engage in when visiting this wonderful place. These activities range from camping, backpacking, hiking, tubing, climbing to exploring, and bird watching. With that said, the best activity that this park has to offer by far has to be zip-lining.
Ziplining is thrilling, exalting, freeing, and adventurous, all while being safe. What a great way to see nature in all its glory while zooming at tops speeds and taking in all the fresh air that you can.
The guides are trained to teach about the trees and the area as you climb to each of your destinations. Who would have ever thought that a thrill-seeking adventure could also be a learning experience as well. The staff even takes pictures of you and your group for you to take with you as a keepsake of your experience.
Decrease stress, boost adrenaline, take in the beauty, burn some calories, make some memories, and enjoy time with friends and family while in Shenandoah. Visit Bear Mountain Ziplines to book one of the best experiences you can have. You won’t regret it.
Recommended by: Cortney Edwards at Tin Can Living
Roanoke, Virginia
Situated in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke sparkles as a destination of choice for outdoor enthusiasts. As America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital, it’s a must to ride across nearly 60 miles of mountain bike trails at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve.
Hikers, plan to tackle the Roanoke Star hike to the world’s largest man-made star that stands 100 feet tall. The overlook wows with wildly scenic views across the Roanoke Valley. The Piratebush Loop is another go-to trail for spectacular vistas.
Roanoke has plenty to offer kayakers, too. The Roanoke River, which snakes along just south of downtown, was recently feted as one of the top urban kayaking spots in the country. This 45-mile blueway is also topped for rafting, tubing, and fishing.
Plan to drive along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, which skirts to the east of downtown. In spring, colorful wildflowers and flowering shrubs, like rhododendrons and mountain laurel, stun motorists on the scenic byway. Stop in the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 115 to explore topographical maps and browse souvenirs and regional crafts in the gift shop.
After a day filled with outdoor adventures, take a seat at Texas Tavern, a classic 10-stool diner in Roanoke. This longtime cash-only landmark serves up burgers and chili bowls for less than $2 each. Order the Cheesy Western, a burger topped with a fried egg, cheese, pickles, and sweet relish.
Recommended by Erin from Go Hike Virginia
Great Falls National Park
One of the best outdoor spots to explore in Northern Virginia is Great Falls Park. Technically located in both Maryland and Virginia, on opposite sides of the Potomac River, the Virginia side of Great Falls Park offers three overlooks to view the falls. There are 15 miles of hiking trails, from short easy hikes to more challenging rock scrambles. Some trails are multi-use if you are interested in biking or horseback riding in addition to hiking. The northernmost trail also continues into Riverbend Park, for those who want to explore more than Great Falls. Rock climbers and kayakers can also be seen enjoying the park, although these activities are recommended for those who are experts.
The fee to enter the park is $20 per vehicle, or an annual park pass can be purchased for $35 total. An America the Beautiful National Park Pass will also allow entry into Great Falls Park. Located in McLean, Virginia, the park is only a 30-minute drive from Washington, D.C., making it an ideal day trip for those looking to get out of the city. For an outdoor adventure in Northern Virginia with hiking and spectacular views, look no further than Great Falls Park.
Recommended by Jordan at The Solo Life
Three Ridges Hike, Charlottesville
Virginia is a dream destination for hikers with tons of gorgeous trails to roam and explore. Three Ridges Summit Trail is a perfect trail for outdoor adventure lovers that want a physical challenge with a big payoff. Located along the Appalachian trail and less than an hour’s drive from Charlottesville, it is one of the top ways to spend a weekend in the Charlottesville area. There are a couple of ways to access the Three Ridges Summit Trail depending on how long you want to hike, with the most popular being a 13.3-mile loop with almost 4,000 feet in elevation gain. Another is to do a 9 mile out and back trail to the summit from the Reeds Gap parking lot – just keep following the signs until you reach the Three Ridges Summit. This hike offers stunning views, walking paths alongside peaceful streams, and plenty of solitude. As you hike along the ridges, you’ll be able to see Shenandoah Valley on one side and Rockfish Valley on the other. Depending on the season, it can be windy with patches of ice so be sure to bring layers, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks and water.
Recommended by: Sumeeta at Sumeeta Seeks
Castle Hill Cider
Now some folks like to take their dog for a quick romp in a park or sailing. But did you know dogs like to visit cideries with their humans? At Castle Hill Cidery in Keswick (near Charlottesville), you can make everyone happy – particularly your furry companion. Absolutely pawsitive! There is a large outdoor patio to enjoy a bottle of cider after you complete your $14 Heritage cider flight (2-ounce pour of five ciders). Bring your handcrafted bottle of cider outside along with the Lite Bites menu. Settle your dog at your feet to stare at the children playing on the lawn. And expect to share from your cheese board ($20), panini flight ($18), or berry tart ($10). Suddenly you find a Castle Hill employee who stops by to say hello and surprises your dog with a frisbee. Does life get any WOOF better? Yes if a game of frisbee commences!
You’ll also want to extend your stay to get your 10,000 (paw) steps by taking a long walk around Castle Hill’s pond. But be forewarned! Dogs like to jump in the water so you might need a towel after swimming ends. (My grandpup Perry was completely soaked!) Castle Hill’s 600-acre orchard features landscaped grounds and rolling hills. The setting is idyllic. The tasting room and grounds are open year-round so you can sample Virginia hard cider in any season. Special event programming includes weekend yoga and food trucks. Call ahead or check the website for the calendar. Castle Hill’s spring hours are Thursday Sunday, 11 am-7 pm.
Recommended by: Terri at FemaleSoloTrek.com
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