Few things in life are more enchanting than a walk through the woods. And in the case of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, the experience borders on the otherworldly. This vast area of wilderness invites adventurers to experience ancient forests filled with remarkable trees, wildlife, wandering trails and signs that point back to centuries of natural history. Take a look at the following photographs and you’ll feel spellbound by these ancient forests in Virginia:

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests contain nearly 1.8 million acres of land in the Eastern United States and were officially combined in 1995. Of this vast land, 1.6 million acres belong to Virginia.
Thomas Cizauskas/flickr
The forests are characterized by mountainous terrain which is home to over 50 species of trees.
Aletha Buchanan/AllTrails
Most remarkable of all, these vast woods contain old-growth forests, which means that select areas have been left undisturbed and reveal unique ecological features.
Marisa Freeman/AllTrails
For a prime example of ancient forest, hikers can head to the Apple Orchard Falls Trail and Cornelius Creek Circuits Trail in the Thunder Ridge Wilderness near Buchanan.
Keith Murrill/AllTrails

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The trail meanders through the North Creek Special Area, which was originally designated to protect songbirds.
Darrell Loudermilk/AllTrails
This trail is equally renowned for its display of wildflowers in the spring and summer months.
Kevin Kirk/AllTrails
Another area of ancient forest growth in Virginia is an area along the Appalachian Trail known as Garden Mountain, just outside of Tazewell.
Annette Haga/AllTrails
In addition to towering trees and mountain overlooks, you may also be able to observe fascinating rock formations which reveal 400-million-year-old worm burrows.
Bob Devereaux/AllTrails
Next time you find yourself in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, you'll want to be sure to take your time to observe your surroundings.
Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

For more information about the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, including access points, recreational opportunities, and more, be sure to visit the official website here. For related content, you may enjoy reading about how The World’s Most Notorious Mythical Creature Is Said To Dwell In These Virginia Woods.

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