In the north of the state just an hour from Washington DC, this long, narrow, 124 square-mile (322-sq-kilometer) swath of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a nature lover´s paradise. Some visitors just drive scenic, 105-mile Skyline Drive (the entrance fee is $30 per car, good for seven consecutive days) while others get out into the woods to hike and bike along more than 500 miles (805 km) of trails, along the way taking in various waterfalls such as Overall Run, at 86 feet (26 meters) the park´s highest. A section of the famed Appalachian Trail runs through here, and nearly four dozen other trails range from short and easy to strenuous (an example of the latter being the nearly-ten-mile Old Rag Circuit, with rock scrambles leading up to a peak with stunning views): except in winter you can also opt for ranger-led hikes. And along the way you might spot wildlife such as foxes, deer, racoons, beavers, skungs, cougars, bobcats, coyotes, and even black bears (plus, needless to say, plenty of bird species, some 200 of them). Other popular activities include horseback riding and trout fishing, as well as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing the Shenandoah River.
Apart from pitching a tent at various (dog-friendly) campgrounds or in the back country, there are also cabins for overnighting as well as even a couple of resorts. There are plenty of places to eat, as well, from “grab and go” to take-out to full-service dining, although they may have limited hours or even be closed in late fall and winter, and you might want to bring your own victuals.
Read more in Tripatini contributor Lowest Flight Fares´ post 6 of Virginia´s Top Destinations.
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