The Ancient Forest In Virginia That's Right Out Of A Storybook
By Beth|Published April 04, 2018
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.