Virginia

explore like never before

Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tips
Nature|National & State Parks

Seven Bends Is The Newest State Park In Virginia And It’s Incredible

Seven Bends State Park in Virginia offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and river activities, making it an excellent day trip destination.

Updated Nov 21, 2023

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

Virginia's state parks are, without a doubt, some of the best in the country. Showcasing a variety of landscapes and terrain, these new Virginia state parks make for excellent day trip destinations. That's why we're always thrilled to explore new parks, such as Seven Bends State Park in Virginia. As the newest state park in Virginia, this gorgeous area near the town of Woodstock has a whole lot to offer.

Note: Since the time of publication, the title for Virginia’s newest state park now goes to Sweet Run State Park.

Tucked away in Shenandoah County awaits a gorgeous destination that's recently become Virginia's newest state park. Welcome to Seven Bends!

Sign for Seven Bends State Park in a grassy field with hay bales and mountains in the background.
Zachary Hottel / Google

The park is situated along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River. It's designated as a day-use-only park, so there are currently no overnight or camping options available.

advertisement
A serene river scene with mist rising, surrounded by trees and fallen leaves on the bank.
Virginia State Parks / Google

There isn't a visitor center, either. For any questions, be sure to call 1-800-933-PARK.

A majority of the park centers around the river, which is famous for its twists and turns. In addition to several miles of hiking trails, the park offers boat access for those looking to get out on the water via canoe or kayak.

A calm river flows through a lush green landscape under a clear blue sky.
Brandon Bowers / Google

If you enjoy fishing, the river is a popular spot for smallmouth bass. Please note that a Virginia freshwater fishing license is required.

A serene river flows through lush green trees under a clear blue sky, with mountains in the background.
Zachary Hottel / Google

There are also a handful of memorable and picturesque river crossings. You'll likely want to bring your camera to capture stunning scenery such as this!

A wooden suspension bridge spans a river, surrounded by lush greenery and misty trees.
Brian Pennock / Google

While a few of the hiking trails follow the river, plenty of them will take you into the rolling foothills at the base of Powell Mountain. The park really does have a beautiful variety of scenery!

advertisement
A scenic view of a green hillside under a clear blue sky, with a dirt path and sparse vegetation in the foreground.
Brandon Bowers / Google

So the next time you're looking for a new outdoor adventure, we'd recommend giving Virginia's newest state park a visit.

A suspension bridge spans a river, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
Zachary Hottel / Google

For a closer look at the park, take a look at this beautiful video, courtesy of Virginia State Parks:

Have you had the chance to visit Seven Bends State Park, a wonderful new Virginia state park? What did you think? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! For more lovely places like this, take a road trip to check out some of the most beautiful state parks in Virginia.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

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.

advertisement
alt
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.

alt
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.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

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.

advertisement

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.

alt
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.

alt
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.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Nature
Hiking

Skip the Crowds: Explore Illinois’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

by Tori Jane
on Nov 14
alt
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Audubon Center in Kansas Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 13
alt
Stays
Vacation Rentals

The Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Louisiana is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

by Jackie Sutherlin
on Nov 13
alt
Nature
Hiking

The Iconic Trail in Northern California Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

by Beth Copenhaver
on Nov 13
alt
Nature
Hiking

The Iconic Trail in Southern California Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

by Megan Todaro
on Nov 13
alt