The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Virginia
By Beth|Published May 10, 2023
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
When you think of the great outdoors in Virginia, what images come to mind? Perhaps the hazy blue mountains of Shenandoah National Park? Or the otherworldly Luray Caverns? Indeed, these are two of our state’s most famous attractions, and we’re featuring them both on the ultimate weekend itinerary for exploring the outdoors. Outdoor activities and adventures in Virginia abound on this easy-to-follow route, and we think you’ll want to try it out as soon as possible!
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
A tour of Luray Caverns will showcase the fascinating cave with rock formations that formed over 400 million years ago. Geologists consider Luray Caverns to be an "active" cavern, meaning that mineral deposits from dripping waters are continuing to build the stalactites and stalagmites — very slowly! It takes about 120 years for one cubic inch of new deposits to form. For more information about the caverns as well as admission prices, be sure to visit the official Luray Caverns website.
Doyles River Falls Trail is one of the park's most beloved trails, and it's no mystery why. This hike offers the chance to hike through a gorgeous hardwood forest that leads to a mystical waterfall. Plus, getting there is half the fun! You'll take the famous Skyline Drive until you reach Doyles River Parking Area (mile 81.1). The parking area has room for about a dozen cars, so the earlier you can arrive, the better!
From there, you'll follow the blue-blazed out-and-back trail, which is 3.4 miles roundtrip, so you'll want to set aside about two and a half hours for your hiking adventure. On your way to the falls, you'll be hiking downhill, so most of the challenging stretches will be on your return back. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes!
Need an option that's a bit less strenuous and time-intensive? We'd recommend the Frazier Discovery Trail, a beginner-friendly 1.3-mile loop (mile 79.5 on Skyline Drive).
We bet you've worked up quite an appetite so far, and fortunately, our next stop is a delicious one: Blue Mountain Brewery. It fits into our outdoor-themed trip perfectly, as its patio boasts incredible mountain views. So pick a spot outside and take in that fresh mountain air.
This brewpub is famous for its selection of beer, but there are plenty of other drinks to choose from, too. Plus, the food is equally impressive. From hearty hamburgers to seasonal salads, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
We've arrived at our overnight accommodation, and boy is it stunning! Offering some of the very best views near Wintergreen Resort, this stunning condo rental is the perfect spot to reflect on our 2-day outdoor getaway in Virginia.
The space was recently remodeled and features elegant, comfortable furnishings. It's perfect for two guests, and children are not allowed. Please note that there are several flights of stairs to reach the unit, and there's a 2-night minimum stay at this particular Vrbo rental in Wintergreen.
If you need more room or are only planning to stay for one night, check out some other Wintergreen rental house options.
What are your thoughts on this epic outdoor adventure? Would you add any stops to this route? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
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