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Nature|National & State Parks

The State Park In Virginia That’s Chock Full Of Natural Wonders

Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia features a stunning 215-foot limestone bridge and offers lush forests, rolling meadows, and historical exhibits.

Published Sep 21, 2018

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

Virginia's State Parks are some of the most breathtakingly beautiful natural areas in our great state. Thanks to conservation efforts, these green spaces are protected and can be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. What's incredible about our park system is that no two are alike. Today, we'll provide an overview of our newest state park that features an ancient attraction, Natural Bridge. Even if you've visited this landmark before, you should consider visiting again to check out some of the surrounding features.

Here's more on Natural Bridge State Park in Rockbridge County:

Natural Bridge is perhaps the most iconic of Virginia's natural landmarks. This formation was carved out hundreds of millions of years ago by water and today stands 215 feet above ground.

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Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

The limestone gorge was once surveyed by George Washington and even owned by Thomas Jefferson. Today, the landmark is accessible to the public thanks to Virginia's newest state park.

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Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

In addition to the giant natural bridge, there are seemingly endless attractions to explore inside the park's 1,540 acres of land.

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Virginia State Parks/flickr

The park contains six miles of hiking trails which meander through the forest, reveal open meadows, and provide beautiful views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

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Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

Hikers that take Cedar Creek Trail will enjoy the opportunity to visit the Monacan Indian Village and the 30-foot cascade known as Lace Falls.

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Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

After exploring the park's beautiful natural surroundings, you'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural history of the land. Living history programs provide an insight into the past and how Native Americans resourcefully cultivated the land.

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Virginia State Parks/flickr

So whether you're looking for a new state park to explore or you're curious to see the lesser-known attractions of Natural Bridge, you and your family will love a visit to this corner of Virginia.

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Chesapeake Bay Program/flickr

Have you visited Natural Bridge State Park recently? Be sure to tell us about your experience there! The park is located at 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578. For additional details, you can visit the Virginia State Park website here.

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Nature|National & State Parks

The Most Iconic View in Virginia Is Also a Stunning Slice of History

Virginia's Grand Canyon is more than just an awe-inspiring wonder; its history runs deep.

Published Nov 13, 2024

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

There are so many postcard-worthy overlooks in Virginia that it can be easy to take them for granted. But there are a few that will catch your breath every time, no matter how long you've lived here. The view of Breaks Interstate Park is one of them. By all accounts, it's one of the most epic views in Virginia right up there with McAfee Knob and Molly's Knob. But as is true of many beautiful places in Virginia, there's more there than meets the eye. The history of the region is vast and like the river-carved canyon, it runs quite deep.

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K e v i n / Flickr

Breaks Interstate Park is characterized by unspoiled Appalachian wilderness, complete with vast woods and rare species. The canyon itself is a true work of art; it's carved in almost a perfect loop by the Russell Fork River. Plus, it's one of the deepest in the Eastern United States, earning the nickname "The Grand Canyon of the South."

In 1767, Daniel Boone located an unexpected break in the 125-mile stretch of Pine Mountain, thus naming the area "the Breaks." Of course, the passage had long been used by Native Americans. When you visit the park, be sure to stop by the Visitor's Center, which offers more details about the culture and history of the landscape. You'll have the opportunity to view artifacts and tools from early settlements.

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Virginia State Parks / Flickr

As you continue exploring the park, it becomes obvious that the land has a story to tell. And there are many ways to engage with the stunning surroundings, ranging from epic hiking trails to breathtaking overlooks, wildlife tours, and even zip lining. For those who just have a few hours to spare, we'd recommend hiking the Breaks Interstate Loop Trail. It's a challenging three miles, but the views are worth the effort.

Another must? Elk tours. The eastern elk has been reintroduced to the area, thanks to conservation efforts, and visitors can be transported by bus to a Virginia Elk Restoration zone. Tours are offered during select dates in March, April, May, August, September, and October, and reservations are required.

Have you ever visited Breaks Interstate Park? Share this article with a fellow history and outdoor enthusiast! Learn more about planning an unforgettable trip to Breaks Interstate Park by visiting the official website. For related content, be sure to take a look at our list of the most beautiful natural wonders in Virginia.

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Nature|National & State Parks

Virginia’s Most Popular State Park, Grayson Highlands is Even More Stunning During the Winter

Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia transforms into a magical winter wonderland with wild ponies, snowy peaks, and scenic trails.

Updated Nov 4, 2024

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

It's true that winter is often the season for staying indoors, cozying up by the fire, and reflecting on the year ahead—and yet there are so many beautiful outdoor attractions that we'd argue are even more magical during the wintertime. So if you're up for an exhilarating and wintery adventure, we have just the place in mind. Grayson Highlands, Virginia's highest-rated state park, promises to be a winter wonderland this time of year. At a high elevation of over 5,000 feet, this park is surrounded by gorgeous mountain vistas and the Grayson Highlands weather can create scenes like you've never seen. If you can't make the trip, the following photos will show you just how magical a Grayson Highlands winter can be during the off-season. Let's explore one of the best state parks in Virginia in the winter.

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Wild mountain ponies, snowy peaks, Fraser firs, and fresh air—these are just a handful of things that make Grayson Highlands State Park such a magical winter destination.

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Getty Images / Eifel Kreutz / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Grayson Highlands is Virginia's highest-altitude park, and just next door inside the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is the tallest peak in the state, Mount Rogers. If you plan on hiking within the park, preparation is essential. Weather can change quickly up in the mountains, so it's necessary to bundle up with plenty of warm, dry layers.

You'll likely encounter the majestic residents of Grayson Highlands: the wild ponies. Seeing these creatures is a hallmark experience of visiting this state park, but you'll need to respect them.

Help keep the ponies safe by keeping your distance, refraining from feeding them, and avoiding startling them. There are plenty of trails to enjoy within the park, and one of the most scenic is Wilburn Ridge via the Appalachian Trail.

A rocky path leads through a grassy landscape with sparse trees under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
Joelle Corey/AllTrails

You might even get to see a little snowfall while you're up there! So whether you're planning a hike, picnic, or just a quick stroll in the great outdoors, you'll be glad you chose Grayson Highlands as your winter outdoor destination.

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Getty Images / Shaun Aigner-Lee / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Visit the Grayson Highlands State Park website or the Grayson Highlands Facebook page for the most current updates.

Have you ever experienced a Grayson Highlands winter? What did you think? We'd love to hear all about your experiences in the comments. If you love hiking around and exploring beautiful places like this, check out some of the best hiking trails in Virginia. And be sure to take a look at our list of outdoor essentials before your next great adventure.

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