These 6 Trails In Virginia Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ancient Ruins

It's a well-known fact that one of the best ways to explore Virginia is on foot. Seeing the diverse landscape is an experience like no other, especially when you get to enjoy scenic trails along the way. Even some of Virginia's most historic sites are accessible by trails. As you take the following hikes through the state, you'll pass by or be led to some extraordinary ruins that hold an important piece of Virginia's history. Dating back decades and sometimes even centuries, these trails to ancient ruins in Virginia are simply fascinating. Although our definition of ancient implies hundreds of years, it's important to note that Virginia's native history began thousands of years ago. Unfortunately, little remains of these original settlements.

1. Pyrite Mine Loop Trail

Our list of trails to ancient ruins in Virginia begins with the Pyrite Mine Loop Trail. Located In Prince William Forest Park, the Pyrite Mine Trail is a 7.6-mile loop that takes hikers by the ruins of an old pyrite mine. Complete with interpretive signs, this area is perfect for exploring the mining history of this portion of Virginia. There are also scenic overlooks and a few waterfalls along the way. For more information about this hike, click here.

2. Back River Lighthouse Trail

Located near Grandview, the Back River Lighthouse Trail is a 1.9 mile out-and-back trek that offers gorgeous views of the beach. A portion of the hike is a gravel road that takes hikers on a tour of the marshlands before arriving at the beach. Continue along the beach, and you’ll come across what remains of the Back River Lighthouse. Built in 1829, the structure was completely destroyed by a hurricane and all that remains today is a pile of rocks near the ocean. For more information about this hike, click here.

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3. Wash Woods Settlement

Located in False Cape State Park, the abandoned Wash Woods Settlement tells a fascinating history of a town that developed after a shipwreck in the 1600s. Following the sand trails with marked signage will lead to these fascinating ruins that have become an important part of Virginia's settlement history. For more information about False Cape State Park, For more information about this hike, click here.

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4. Midlothian Mines Park

Midlothian Mines Park is a trail park near Richmond that features the ruins of Grove Shaft, a coal mine that faced a deadly explosion in 1882. The two-story stone structure on site is all that remains of the mining company's main building.

5. Old Dominion Iron Works at Belle Isle

In the early 20th century, this hydro-electro plant was built to fuel local operations in Richmond. Though less traditional than other ruins, this skeleton of a former industrial building holds an important place in the history of the James River. This site is accessible by a number of trails along the James River Park System, which then cross over the river by means of the suspension bridge. For more information about this area, click here.

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6. Bull Run Mountain Loop

The Bull Run Mountain Loop is 4.3 miles and is located in Broad Run. The trail is perhaps best known for featuring the historic Chapman's Mill, also known as Beverley Mill. The grist mill was built in 1742 and many of its gears and mechanisms can still be observed as you pass by. For more information on this hike, click here.

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What are your thoughts on these trails to ancient ruins in Virginia? How many have you hiked? If you're Looking for more incredible local trails, be sure to check out our previous article: These 12 Trails In Virginia That Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places.