The Clearest Lake In Virginia, Hidden Valley Lake Is Almost Too Beautiful To Be Real
By Beth|Published November 16, 2020
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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.
Virginia has no shortage of natural beauty, and yet we are constantly in awe of some of our state’s pristine hidden gems. One of them is aptly named Hidden Valley Lake. Tucked away in the mountains, this high-elevation lake also boasts some of the clearest water in Virginia. It’s a splendid place to spend some time in solitude and reflection, and being there will undoubtedly restore your appreciation for the great outdoors.
There's a breathtaking lake tucked in the Virginia mountains that calls to all kinds of nature enthusiasts: hikers, anglers, and wildlife lovers.
Hikers should note that a significant portion of the trail is hiking along a gravel road.
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You can also drive to the lake and park in the designated parking lot. Visitors who plan to use this road to get to the lake will need some kind of an access permit.
The lovely lake, which is approximately 60 acres, is almost magical in its pristine beauty. To start, the waters are tranquil and clear. Secondly, it's located at a higher elevation of 3,808 feet.
These unique factors mean wildlife and natural beauty are abundant. In addition to fish — namely smallmouth bass, rock bass, walleye, and bluegill — there are also birds of prey, black bears, great horned and barred owls, and beautiful monarch butterflies.
Visit in any season and you'll find that being near the lake is a transformative experience. It's not too crowded, so it's a perfect place for solitude.
As is the case with any outdoor space in Virginia, be sure to leave no trace!
Have you had the chance to explore Hidden Valley Lake Wildlife Management Area in Virginia? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience! For more information about planning your visit, it’s helpful to refer to the Virginia Department of Wildlife website and the AllTrails hiking guide.
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