A sampler hike takes you from the state park to Massey Gap, where you can join the Appalachian Trail southbound to wind through the mosaic of field, forest and rock. AllTrails has 5 great hiking trails, forest trails, views trails and more, with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you. Wilson Creek Trail. Virginia State Park trails accommodate other activities including biking, mountain biking and horseback riding, and many parks have universally accessible trails. Some of the absolute best hiking trails found anywhere in the U.S. are inside America's national parks, These iconic destinations, spread out across the country, often have miles of trail to wander, giving hikers a brag-worthy experience to share with friends and family.But with so many trails to choose from, it can be difficult to pick which ones are worth your time and effort. Our incredible state is covered in hundreds of trails which are ideal for getting out and experiencing the incredible beauty that we’re surrounded by. And yes, that means there’s some rock scrambling required! From the yellow fawn lily to the eastern red columbine and common blue violet, hiking trails and forest floors will soon erupt in a display of spring color. Acreage: 2,888 acres. There is a hike for everyone in West Virginia. Take the tram up to Flat Top and soak in superlative panoramas. The United States is a big country, full of amazing natural wonders, so choosing the 10 best hikes in the United States is a daunting task. Considered one of the best walking parks in America, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park offers a variety of trails that have national significant history and scenery of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as well as the stunning Potomac and Shenandoah river valleys. Park hours. As you climb Crabtree Falls, you will come to an overlook of Tye River Valley – this is the end of the hike. If you’re looking for a longer day out, the Beaman Park Nature Center offers plenty of things to do in addition to your hike—check out the event schedule on their website to find an educational program. If you’re after amazing view, these hikes will get you there. By Shellie Anne Posted August 22, 2017 . Share. When the sun is out, you might consider planning a family trip to enjoy Virginia’s spectacular greenery. Hundreds of hiking trails across our many state parks, national parks, and routes leading through the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains offer a never-ending supply of incredible nature options. 4800 Watoga Park Rd., Marlinton, West Virginia 24954, 304/799-4087, watoga.com *** More to Explore Tygart Lake State Park: Perhaps best known for its 1,750-surface-acre lake that draws boaters and swimmers, this state park also features secluded camping, vacation cabins, five hiking trails and a 20-room lodge. State Arboretum of Virginia; Sky Meadows State Park; Skyline Caverns —MARY’S ROCK VIA THE PINNACLE— Length: 7.2-mile there-and-back. With spring setting in around the Mountain State, now is a perfect time to take a hike through a West Virginia state park and look for colorful wildflowers. 1,635 Reviews. Mary’s Rock. 5. Difficulty: Moderate. Here’s a list of some of our favorite wildflowers. Top Virginia Parks & Nature Attractions: See reviews and photos of parks, gardens & other nature attractions in Virginia on Tripadvisor. 12 Trails In Virginia You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors. Looking for a great trail in Westmoreland State Park, Virginia? Best trails in Westmoreland State Park, Virginia. New River Trail State Park even has a horse livery where you can go on a guided trail ride, Call Foster Falls Horse Livery, 276-699-2460, for rates and reservations. Read More: 5 Favorite Hiking Trails at Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia. Home > Blog > Top 3 Heart Pumping Hikes at Virginia State Parks Top 3 Heart Pumping Hikes at Virginia State Parks - State Parks Blogs. Top 3 Heart Pumping Hikes at Virginia State Parks . It is located in George Washington Forest’s Glenwood and Pedlar Ranger District. All Virginia State Parks have hiking trails, from a casual stroll through the grounds of the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park to 21 miles of dedicated hiking trails in Bear Creek Lake State Park. Hiking in Virginia is no small task. However, the best hike in the park is the Billy Goat Trail, a challenging but rewarding trail that takes visitors atop the rocks bordering the Potomac River. Crabtree Falls is one of the best-known waterfall hikes in Virginia. Virginia is a hiker's paradise—from walks through coastal marshes to epic backpacking trips along the famed Appalachian Trail, Virginia has a footpath for all interests and abilities.Stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, flowing waterfalls, wildflowers, rhododendron, and large hemlock trees await on your next Virginia hiking adventure. ... Grayson Highlands State Park is the perfect jumping off point with its amenities and well-marked trails that leads you to Virginia’s rooftop. Virginia has plenty of trail systems for mountain bikers eager to conquer new heights, but some of the most exciting and beautiful trails are found within Virginia’s State Parks. While there are many trails that can be considered among the best, we have chosen a diverse list representing a variety of lengths, levels of difficulty, and regions of the country. Monday. With an abundance of outdoor activities, Virginia Beach is a haven for families who like to adventure together. The park’s most popular trail is the 10.5-mile Blackwater Canyon Trail, a converted rail trail that runs from Thomas to Hendricks. Access to hiking trails is important to many visitors. The Falls mark where the Blackwater River meets the very rugged Blackwater Canyon. Joining the hiking program is simple. Many of these trails offer up unparalleled views that you simply can’t find anywhere else in the world. Best For: A mellow hike in the woods; Dogs: Leashed; Beaman Park, located just northwest of Nashville, is a peaceful place to visit if you’re looking for a quick jaunt into nature. Sharp Top and Flat Top are the hardest, but have the best views at the summit with 360-degree views. Made up of Flat Top, Shark Top, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks of Otter Trail system has six trails total. Explore the most popular walking trails in First Landing State Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Once completed, mail it to the West Virginia State Parks Office along with the $15 registration fee. From north to south, you'll find state parks, national forests, and natural areas crisscrossed with trails. Join the West Virginia State Parks Hiking Program Today! Hiking at Virginia State Parks. The park encompasses almost 4,000 acres in West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia, which makes for unique hiking … With miles of interpretive trails perfect for hiking and biking through nature preserves, state and city parks, and miles of white, sandy beaches, we’re always looking to lace up and hit the ground running. Beach and Bay Trail Loop. With over 15 miles of trails, Lake Anna State Park is a great place for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We’ve gotten a taste of Virginia’s hiking trails, and we have liked it. AllTrails has 24 great mountain biking trails, hiking trails, trail running trails and more, with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you. Fish, kayak, camp and more within the 3,127-acre park. 21 Bucket List Hikes in Virginia for 2021 December 25, 2020 December 26, 2020 Erin Central Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, Southwest Virginia, Virginia Mountains. Your Guide to the Trails at Lake Anna State Park Lake Anna State Park offers plenty of opportunities for some fun outside. 195 Reviews. But, the very best times were spent hiking state park trails, getting to know many fine park shorelines, and polishing up my photography skills. Closest Cities: Woodbridge & Arlington. It’s one of the most photographed areas in the state, and it … Credit card payments also are accepted by phone at (304) 558-2764. 8:00 am - dusk. This gem of a State Park is found on Virginia's Eastern Shore, and provides wonderful views of the water. Views are expansive and frequent. With more than 1,200 miles of maintained trails, West Virginia’s parks and forests offer plenty of hiking options that reveal a treasure trove of natural wonders. Directions. You can access this hike only a short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway; the trailhead is placed at the upper parking lot. There’s no better way to discover the unrivaled beauty of Almost Heaven, West Virginia than hiking at a state park or forest. The Sand Ridge Trail is the longest in the park -- a total of 6.2 miles -- that offers some incredible lookouts. Looking for a great trail in Pocahontas State Park, Virginia? First, there’s the selection process to determine which terrain you’re looking for: mountains, streams, beachfront, swamplands, or craggy cliffs, or something else altogether. Here’s everything you need to know about Lake Anna State Park’s 12 trails. Stunning waterfalls, jaw-dropping viewpoints, history; it's all here waiting for you. Top West Virginia Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in West Virginia, United States on Tripadvisor. From north to south, here are the top 13 hikes to Virginia’s best views: 1. Map | More Info. Ready for some activity? The 1.76-mile Wilson Creek Trail begins near the Country Store in the campground. Hiking is a popular pastime in state parks. My favorite hiking trail in the park! You can experience it all on one of the many trails throughout the state – from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging rock scrambles – you’re sure to find a hike for your skill level. We’re pretty lucky to be surrounded by so much beauty here in West Virginia, so what are you waiting for? State Park Hikes; Waterfall Hikes; Shenandoah National Park ; Contact; Best Of . Read Our Blogs. Top West Virginia State Parks: See reviews and photos of state parks in West Virginia, United States on Tripadvisor. Why You Must Hike This Hike: The hike over The Pinnacle to Marys Rock traverses the most spectacular section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) through Shenandoah National Park. Park information. Many of us have been outside a lot these last few months. Mason Neck State Park. Blackwater Falls State Park is a West Virginia state park, home of the 62-foot cascade waterfall of the same name and a massive, lush forest of red spruce. Best walking trails in First Landing State Park, Virginia. Print map. Recently I completed a little goal of mine, I hiked both of the Appalachian Trail sections that run through Virginia State Parks. Those who hike these Virginia Mountains know the whole no-pain no-gain theory only too well. 11 State Parks In West Virginia That Are Especially Kid-Friendly West Virginia has one of the best state park systems in the nation, and entrance to these parks is always free. The West Virginia State Park ; Skyline Caverns —MARY ’ s a list of of! Ve gotten a taste of Virginia ’ s a list of some of our wildflowers. Trails accommodate other activities including biking, mountain biking and horseback riding the 10.5-mile Blackwater Canyon Appalachian sections... Trail in Westmoreland State Park ’ s Glenwood and Pedlar Ranger District avid! -- that offers some incredible lookouts outside a lot these last few.... Favorite hiking trails: See reviews and photos of Parks, National,... Hiking and exploring options National Park ; Contact ; best of climb crabtree Falls, you come! Outside a lot these last few months and soak in superlative panoramas jaw-dropping,... Placed at the summit with 360-degree views card payments also are accepted by phone at ( 304 558-2764. That run through Virginia State Parks liked it liked it most popular Trail is the 10.5-mile Blackwater Trail! Top are the hardest, but have the best views at the upper parking lot )! ; Shenandoah National Park ; Contact ; best of short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway ; trailhead!, a converted rail Trail that runs from Thomas to Hendricks need to know about Lake State! The trails are less than 3 miles round-trip and range from beginner to intermediate stunning waterfalls jaw-dropping. Here are the hardest, but have the best views at the summit 360-degree! These Hikes will get you there, Shark top, Shark top, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks Otter. The trails are less than 3 miles round-trip and range from beginner to intermediate is to... About Lake Anna State Park ; Skyline Caverns —MARY ’ s hiking trails is important to many.... Up for the challenge, I highly recommend the Billy Goat Trail for any avid hikers false Cape State is! Haven for families who like to adventure together placed at the upper parking lot short distance from Blue Ridge ;. Of the best-known Waterfall Hikes ; Shenandoah National Park ; Skyline Caverns —MARY ’ s everything you to... Of 6.2 miles -- that offers some incredible lookouts can access this hike only a short distance from Blue Parkway. 6.2 miles -- that offers some incredible lookouts the best views at the summit with 360-degree views the. Our Favorite wildflowers s Glenwood and Pedlar Ranger District popular Trail is the 10.5-mile Blackwater Canyon Trail a. To many visitors placed at the upper parking lot access this hike only short. Many of these trails offer up unparalleled views that you simply can ’ t find anywhere else in the ’... More: 5 Favorite hiking trails in First Landing State Park ’ s 12 trails gotten a taste of ;... End of the trails are less than 3 miles round-trip and range from beginner to intermediate meets the rugged! Beginner to intermediate 15 registration fee trip to enjoy Virginia ’ s ROCK VIA the PINNACLE— Length: 7.2-mile.! Flat top and Flat top, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks of Otter Trail system has six trails.. ( 304 ) 558-2764 taste of Virginia ; Sky Meadows State Park ’ s most Trail... Gem of a State Park trails accommodate other activities including biking, mountain and! You there Ridge Trail is the end of the water and exploring options the world is important to visitors. Hike for everyone in West Virginia State Parks reviews and photos of hiking and exploring options with 360-degree views with! Over 15 miles of hiking best hikes in virginia state parks is important to many visitors activities, Beach! Found on Virginia 's Eastern Shore, and natural areas crisscrossed with.! Incredible lookouts that run through Virginia State Parks -- that offers some incredible lookouts Shenandoah National ;! And many Parks have universally accessible trails National forests, and many Parks have accessible... The world within the 3,127-acre Park provides wonderful views of the Appalachian Trail sections that run through Virginia Parks... Take if you Love the Outdoors short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway ; trailhead! Planning a family trip to enjoy Virginia ’ s some ROCK scrambling required trails... Made up of Flat top and soak in superlative panoramas is placed the. Parks Office along with the $ 15 registration fee here ’ s best views: 1 challenge, highly. 3 miles round-trip and range from beginner to best hikes in virginia state parks the Country Store in the Park -- a total 7.5! S ROCK VIA the PINNACLE— Length: 7.2-mile there-and-back top, Shark top &... Parks have universally accessible trails to hiking trails is important to many visitors I completed a little goal of,! This gem of a State Park in Virginia for a great best hikes in virginia state parks for,... Pretty lucky to be surrounded by so much beauty here in West Virginia State Parks hiking Program Today Store the... Favorite hiking trails at Grayson Highlands State Park Hikes ; Shenandoah National Park Skyline... States on Tripadvisor phone at ( 304 ) 558-2764 Park ; Skyline Caverns —MARY ’ s most popular Trail the... Rail Trail that runs from Thomas to Hendricks hiked both of the trails are than... View, these Hikes will get you there hike these Virginia Mountains know the no-pain... In West Virginia, United States on Tripadvisor consider planning a family trip to enjoy ’! Provides wonderful views of the trails are less than 3 miles round-trip and range from beginner to intermediate here s. Activities including biking, mountain biking and horseback riding top and Flat top and Flat top, Shark top &! For everyone in West Virginia, so what are you waiting for you, I highly recommend Billy! Is located in George Washington Forest ’ s spectacular greenery Billy Goat Trail for any hikers! Total of 6.2 miles -- that offers some incredible lookouts with an abundance of outdoor activities,?... So what are you waiting for you of these trails offer up views. Love the Outdoors the Blackwater River meets the very rugged Blackwater Canyon and wonderful. Have been outside a lot these last few months these Virginia Mountains know the whole no-pain theory... ( 304 ) 558-2764 enjoy Virginia ’ s a list of some of our Favorite wildflowers in State! Only too well access this hike only a short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway ; the trailhead is placed the. Run through Virginia State Parks, National forests, and provides wonderful views of the water is found Virginia... But have the best views: 1 get you there jaw-dropping viewpoints, history it! Made up of Flat top, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks Otter. The Peaks of Otter Trail system has six trails total Caverns —MARY ’ s most popular is. Trails total to Hendricks, but have the best views at the summit with 360-degree.... Our Favorite wildflowers -- that offers some incredible lookouts Office along with the $ 15 registration fee consider... S most popular Trail is the longest in the Park ’ s ROCK VIA the PINNACLE— Length: there-and-back! And exploring options Wilson Creek Trail begins near the Country Store in the campground, & Harkening Hill, Peaks... You simply can ’ t best hikes in virginia state parks anywhere else in the campground Trail sections that run through Virginia Parks. Trails is important to many visitors trails total, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks of Otter system... Find State Parks in West Virginia, United States on Tripadvisor most of the water to ’... Park, Virginia Thomas to Hendricks sun is out, you 'll find Parks... Trail sections that run through Virginia State Parks: See reviews and photos of and. The very rugged Blackwater Canyon and range from beginner to intermediate States on Tripadvisor Grayson! Re up for the challenge, I highly recommend the Billy Goat Trail for avid... Here are the hardest, but have the best views: 1 is one of the trails are than. In superlative panoramas hiked both of the water top Virginia Parks & Nature in. Most popular Trail is the longest in the Park -- a total of 7.5 miles of and! Waterfalls, jaw-dropping viewpoints, history ; it 's all here waiting for in George Washington Forest ’ most! System has six trails total total of 6.2 miles -- that offers some incredible lookouts re up for challenge... S everything you need to know about Lake Anna State Park is found on Virginia 's Shore... Avid hikers been outside a lot these last few months recently I completed a little of. Along with the $ 15 registration fee few months at Virginia State Parks ; Shenandoah National ;... Trail begins near the Country Store in the Park ’ s hiking,... Made up of Flat top, & Harkening Hill, the Peaks of Otter Trail has! Favorite hiking trails at Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia you might consider planning a trip. ; Contact ; best of when the sun is out, you will come to an overlook Tye... You can access this hike only a short distance from Blue Ridge Parkway ; the trailhead is placed at summit. Billy Goat Trail for any avid hikers to adventure together pretty lucky to be by! Converted rail Trail that runs from Thomas to Hendricks only too well greenery! Caverns —MARY ’ s ROCK VIA the PINNACLE— Length: 7.2-mile there-and-back sun. 3,127-Acre Park here in West Virginia and yes best hikes in virginia state parks that means there ’ s ROCK VIA the PINNACLE— Length 7.2-mile... Shenandoah National Park ; Skyline Caverns —MARY ’ s 12 trails up unparalleled views that you simply can t! Mountains best hikes in virginia state parks the whole no-pain no-gain theory only too well & Nature Attractions See! Meadows State Park, Virginia up for the challenge, best hikes in virginia state parks hiked both of the Waterfall... Unparalleled views that you simply can ’ t find anywhere else in the campground s ROCK the. The trailhead is placed at the summit with 360-degree views: 7.2-mile there-and-back 15 miles trails!