One Of The Most Breathtaking Wonders In America Is Hiding Right Here In Virginia

There’s a reason the Grand Canyon is on nearly everyone’s bucket list. The idea of a vast canyon carved out by water alone is nearly unbelievable. But the Grand Canyon isn’t the only example of this miraculous phenomenon. In fact, we have our very own Grand Canyon in Virginia, and it’s no less spectacular. Whether you’re looking for an epic day of hiking, zip lining, or even wildlife viewing, you’ll agree that there are endless things to do at Breaks Interstate Park. Here’s more on one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Virginia and perhaps the South, which is hiding in plain sight in the Old Dominion.

Tucked away in the ancient Appalachian Mountains between Kentucky and Virginia awaits a natural haven known as Breaks Interstate Park. It's one of our favorite state parks for many reasons, including the breathtaking natural wonder that is hiding inside.

The park's main attraction is a vast, 5-mile-long canyon that runs 1,600 feet deep.

Over 180 million years ago, the area was once covered by a vast inland sea. The canyon that you'll see today is the result of the Russel Fork River, which has carved through the rock over thousands upon thousands of years.

Before the area was discovered by Daniel Boone in his westward explorations, it was used as a hunting ground by the Shawnee and Cherokee Indigenous peoples.

Boone deemed the area the Breaks because it was a rare passage in the mountains that allowed him to continue westward.

Those visiting Breaks Interstate Park today will find no shortage of adventures, whether that be a challenging hike, an overnight camping trip, or the opportunity to zip line over the canyon.

Another unique adventure at the park is elk viewing. After over a century and a half, the native elk have returned to the Breaks!

Breaks Interstate Park offers guided elk viewing tours in spring and fall. Quick tip: If you plan to go hiking, we recommend that you visit during the spring because the trails are less crowded during that time of year.

No matter the time of year you visit or your reason for going, you won't help but agree that Breaks Interstate Park is one of the greatest natural wonders in America.

Have you ever had the privilege of visiting the Grand Canyon of the South? Do you believe it’s one of the best natural wonders in Virginia? What were some of your favorite things to do at Breaks Interstate Park? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below - we would love to hear from you! For more information, be sure to check out Breaks Interstate Park online.

If you plan to go hiking while you’re at the park, be sure to download your free trial of AllTrails+ to access offline maps and to get some great perks.