Virginia’s great outdoors is calling
Virginia is often lauded as one of the most beautiful states in America. Its scenic landscapes effortlessly lend themselves to a rich diversity of outdoor activities, leaving virtually no open-air pursuit off its lengthy list of adventures. With Virginia’s ideal location in the mid-Atlantic, it’s also a four-season destination, allowing for year-round outside recreation. It’s only a four-hour drive from Virginia’s picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains to its more than 100 miles of Atlantic Coastline and 28 miles of warm sunny beaches, making it possible to take in the gorgeous fall colors of the trees in Shenandoah National Park in the morning and surf that very afternoon in the warm waters of Virginia Beach. The famous Chesapeake Bay offers the ideal backdrop for a wealth of water activities, from sailing to wildlife watching, while Virginia’s 1.7 million acres of National Forests provide plenty of area to roam without ever seeing a soul, should you wish. For those less adventurous, a drive along the world- renowned Blue Ridge Parkway reveals miles of scenic views and hundreds of charming places to discover. “There’s no better medicine for the spirit than the great outdoors,” says Virginia’s First Lady, Suzanne Youngkin. “No matter what your passion, Virginia has activities for people of all ages, and we welcome both visitors and Virginians alike to get outside and play.”
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Get out on the water
For some, life is just better on the water. In Virginia you can soak your soul in a hot spring, float serenely down a slow rolling river, or tame raging rapids on a stand-up paddle board. Legendary places like the Great Dismal Swamp and the mighty Shenandoah River bid you come and uncover their wonders. Beach life beckons, from the bustling Virginia Beach boardwalk to the secluded sands of the Eastern Shore. Adrenaline inducing or spirit soothing, there’s a water activity in Virginia for everyone.
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Take a hike
Virginia’s landscape offers a limitless source of hiking inspiration, whether you seek a challenge or simply a stroll. With more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state and some of the most lauded locations, like McAfee Knob, it’s simple to step foot on that world- famous trail. Or take to the coast and hike through First Landing State Park to discover where the English made landfall before establishing themselves at Jamestown.
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Accommodations that celebrate the outdoors
Stay in a treehouse at Primland in the heart of the Blue Ridge and play golf amid stunning mountain views. Or settle in at Salamander Resort surrounded by wine country and try your hand at falconry or equestrian sports. Go glamping in a luxury teepee with heated floors at Sandy River Outdoor Adventures Resort. For those with a sense of adventure, camp under the stars on a remote beach alongside the Chesapeake Bay. Virginia’s varied accommodations help you make the most of the great outdoors.
Take to two wheels
When it comes to two-wheeled adventures, Virginia tops the charts. Dubbed “America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital,” Virginia’s Blue Ridge is ideal for adrenaline lovers. Paved trails like the Virginia Capital Trail, which connects the Commonwealth’s past and present capitals of Jamestown and Richmond, and rail trails like the 45-mile Washington & Old Dominion Trail, make for wonderful family outings. Serious road cyclists adore the challenging curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway. And throughout Virginia you’ll find lodging with bikes to borrow or nearby shops offering tours and rentals.
