Virginia

explore like never before

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

Sky Meadows State Park In Virginia Is Filled With Beginner-Friendly Mountain View Hikes

Sky Meadows State Park in Virginia offers beginner-friendly trails with beautiful mountain views and diverse terrain.

Published Aug 26, 2021

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

Virginia's mountain trails often mean rock scrambles, hours of incline, and plenty of endurance to get you to the top. And while these trails are certainly worthwhile, sometimes, it's equally rewarding to take a more gentle approach. Fortunately, you really can get the best of both worlds: easy trails and breathtaking mountain views. Head to Sky Meadows State Park and check out any of the beginner-friendly trails that also promise gorgeous scenery. You'll find a few of our favorites below.

Tucked away in Northern Virginia, Sky Meadows State Park is characterized by rolling farmland, peaceful meadows, and glimpses of the Appalachian Mountains in the distance.

A panoramic view of rolling green hills and a distant farm under a clear blue sky, with a lone tree in the foreground.
Yaegerbombs / TripAdvisor

What truly sets this park apart from others is the variety of terrain you'll encounter. The combination of wooded trails and wide-open meadows is truly remarkable.

advertisement
A serene forest path surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees under a bright blue sky.
Benjamin B. / TripAdvisor

For a great introduction to the park, opt for the Sky Meadows Loop. This loop is actually quite long and can be strenuous; however, it's easily customizable thanks to the network of trails in the park.

A panoramic view of rolling hills and fields under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. A dirt path leads through the grass.
Amy Mag / AllTrails

Instead of completing the loop, for example, simply turn back towards the parking lot when you're finished.

Another recommended route is as follows: begin at the visitor's center, head to the Piedmont Overlook Trail to North Ridge Trail to Gap Run Trail before taking the Boston Mill Road back to the trailhead.

A grassy path leads through a field under a blue sky with fluffy clouds and distant hills.
Polly Pan / AllTrails

There are plenty of sign markers along the way to guide you. This customized route is approximately 2.3 miles.

Lastly, the Snowden Interpretive Trail is a lesser-traveled hike that's also considered to be easy. This 1-mile loop remains relatively flat the entire way.

A scenic view of rolling hills and a lush green field under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.
David Peters / AllTrails

No matter which trail you opt for, don't forget to bring your camera! Views like these are ones you'll want to remember.

advertisement
A dirt path winds through a grassy field under a blue sky with fluffy clouds and scattered trees in the background.
Viktoria Sarapin / AllTrails

Have you visited Sky Meadows State Park recently? If so, tell us all about your experiences in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! For more information, be sure to visit the Sky Meadows State Park website.

For more easy trails in Virginia, check out our list of trails under 5 miles.

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
Caves & Rock Formations

The Completely Free Natural Attraction Hiding in a Wyoming Park Is a Must-Visit

by Megan McDonald
on Nov 14
alt
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Natural Wonder in Idaho Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

by Courtnie Erickson
on Nov 14
alt
Food
Breweries & Wineries

The Best Apple Cider in Alaska Comes From This Award-Winning Hard Cidery

by Jennifer
on Nov 14
alt
Trip Ideas
Road Trips

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Oregon’s Most Charming Small Towns

by Natasha Kayes
on Nov 14
alt
Nature
Hiking

The Iconic Trail in Tennessee Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

by Chris Dodge
on Nov 14
The bright green grass on top of Roan Mountain overlooks layers of mountains in the distance.