Trail Map: The Hike: This short hike has great views of the falls. It also features over 200 steps to reach the falls viewing area. This is a popular hike and the trail (and parking area) can become very congested. We arrived before 8am on a Sunday and had the trail and the falls to […]
Trail Map: The Hike: On a recent week-long hiking trip to western NC, we used Hot Springs as our home base. We stayed at the Laughing Heart Lodge located about 150 yards from the Appalachian Trail. The hike to Lovers Leap on the AT is a local favorite so we added it to our list.
Trail Map: The Hike: We have hiked to both Dark Hollow Falls and Rose River Falls and they are both great hikes. This hike combines both falls and includes a short stretch on the Appalachian Trail. Note pets are not allowed at Dark Hollow Falls. Navigating through the campground at the beginning of the hike
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Trail Map: The Hike: We first hiked to Bear Church Rock several years ago from Bootens Gap in Shenandoah National Park. This hike begins just outside the park in Graves Mill. The trail passes beside two rivers as it climbs to Bear Church Rock. This hike combines segments of several trails, so pay attention at
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Trail Map: The Hike: The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. They protect nearly 150,000 acres at 22 sites in Virginia. Bottom Creek Gorge has been part of the Conservancy since the 1970s. The trails are well marked and well maintained. Dogs are
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The Hike: This easy hike passes beside Roaring Run much of the way. We hiked following heavy rains and the stream was full and the falls were spectacular. This loop trail combines the Woodland Trail and the Streamside Trail. Both trails begin near the trail kiosk by the restrooms. We began the loop by following
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The Hike: This hike combines several short trails into a pleasant trip through wildflowers, meadows and forests with some nice James River views. Stop at the Visitor Center to pick up a trail map. From the Trailhead parking area, follow the tan-blazed Turkey Trail as is meanders beside a meadow before entering the forest. Powhatan
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The Hike: Shenandoah River State Park is located just across US 340 from its national park cousin. The park has 5 miles of Shenandoah River South Fork shoreline and over 25 miles of hiking trails. We visited on a rainy day in late March when the Virginia bluebells were at their peak. This loop hike
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The Hike: Machicomoco is one of Virginia’s newest State Parks. This small park (645 acres) is home to diverse wildlife habitats, from open fields to woodlands and waterfront/marsh areas. The park is still a bit of a work in progress as more trails and facilities are planned. The park currently has three hiking trails. Our
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The Hike: Full disclosure: this “hike” is really a walk. Much of the surface is a paved road. This was our first hike with our grandson Joshua. Josh was six-months old and in a stroller so a paved surface was ideal in our situation. The road does have vehicle traffic with a 15 PMH speed
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