15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Virginia That Defy Explanation
By Beth|Published November 28, 2023
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
To travel through Virginia is to experience some of the most breathtaking wonders and natural beauty in America. From the age-old Blue Ridge Mountains to the vibrant rivers, old-growth forests, and the tranquil Chesapeake Bay giving way to the Atlantic Ocean, there’s simply no shortage of beauty to be admired. Yet as you’re exploring the space between mountains and ocean, you’ll also find some natural wonders that seem otherworldly, almost as though they defy explanation. Whether for their grandness in size, striking beauty, or something else altogether, these are some of the most incredible natural wonders in Virginia. Ready to start exploring them?
You may not associate gorges and canyons with Virginia, and yet there are plenty to explore. In fact, the Grand Canyon of the South is located right here in Virginia, and it’s absolutely bucket-list-worthy. Here are some other destinations where you can get your fill of gorges and canyons.
1. Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Wow Factor: When it comes to natural attractions in Virginia, Breaks Interstate Park is a hard one to beat. You won't help but feel a sense of adventure here. In fact, Daniel Boone himself once explored this area in the 1760s. The canyon itself is an impressive five miles long and ranges in depth between 830 to 1,600 feet deep. It's been carved out over millions of years by the Russell Fork River. It's affectionately known as the Grand Canyon of the South.
Cost: $3 day-use fee per car.
2. Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park, 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102, USA
Wow Factor:Mather Gorge is a section of Great Falls Park that is bound to impress nature enthusiasts of all kinds. This particular stretch is the narrowest part of the Potomac River, and it's lined on either side by dramatic cliffs and bluffs. This section is especially popular among kayakers and rafters, and it's not difficult to see why!
Cost: There is a $20 admission fee per vehicle.
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Best Caves In Virginia
Virginia is home to some of the most fascinating and otherworldly cavers in America. Are you ready for a subterranean adventure amidst stalactites and stalagmites? Let’s take a look at these baffling and beautiful caves in Virginia:
3. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns, 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Wow Factor:Luray Caverns began forming over 400 million years ago. This vast cavern system is known as an "active cave," because the dripping water carries mineral deposits that continue to create the unique cavern system. Some noteworthy features include the Great Stalacpipe Organ as well as the Wishing Well.
Price: There's a $32 admission price per adult.
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4. Sand Cave
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Middlesboro, KY 40965, USA
Wow Factor: Virginia's Cumberland Mountain features 20 beautiful caves which range in size from 20 feet to over sixteen miles in length. Perhaps the most beautiful of all, the Sand Cave at Cumberland Gap has a ceiling flecked with shades of red, green, and gold.
Price: The easiest way to access the sand cave is via Thomas Walker Civic Park, which does not require an entrance fee.
Wow Factor: There's an entire world of breathtaking rock formations at Shenandoah Caverns, which is also the only cavern in Virginia with elevator access. The iconic "breakfast bacon" formations are so bizarre and otherworldly that they've appeared in National Geographic. Don't forget to check out some of the lofty rooms within the caverns, such as Long View Hall.
Best Waterfalls In Virginia
Virginia is brimming with stunning waterfalls. Many of them are tucked away in forests while others seem to be hidden in plain sight. Either way, waterfalls are a popular hiking or road trip destination here in Virginia. Below you’ll find a handful of the best waterfalls in Virginia:
Wow Factor:Falling Spring Falls is truly a vision to behold. It's an 80-foot waterfall that can be seen practically right from the road, showcasing the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. Thomas Jefferson himself once described this natural wonder as a "remarkable cascade." You'll definitely need to check it out for yourself!
Wow Factor:Crabtree Falls holds the distinction of being the tallest cascading series of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Moreover, you can experience the waterfall via a staircase trail that follows the falls to the top, where explorers can enjoy an absolutely jaw-dropping view of the surrounding landscape. Keep in mind that staying on the trail is absolutely necessary, as the rocks are deceptively slippery. Crabtree Falls is gorgeous year-round, but especially so in the fall and spring.
It’s no exaggeration to say that there are hundreds — if not thousands — of scenic overlooks in Virginia worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for an epic mountain sunset or a glimpse of the painted sky over the Atlantic, there are countless ways to enjoy a scenic vista in Virginia. Below we’ve outlined just a few of our favorites. One thing’s for sure — you won’t want to forget to bring your camera with you!
Location:Hawksbill Summit is located in Shenandoah National Park, in both Madison and Page Counties.
Wow Factor: Residing at an elevation of just over 4,000 feet, Hawksbill Summit is the highest point in all of Shenandoah National Park. Those who wish to enjoy a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains can take a short yet steep trail to the top. In fact, there are three different ways to get to the top, the shortest of which is about a mile and a half round-trip.
Price: Hawksbill Summit is located in Shenandoah National Park, which requires an entrance fee of $15 per vehicle.
Wow Factor: A steep and challenging 700-foot climb gives way to what might just be the best mountain view in Virginia. Humpback Rocks is situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway near the Appalachian Trail and is a popular day hike destination. The rocky outcropping you'll find at the top dramatically frames the view of Rockfish Valley and the Shenandoah Valley. It's one of those places that needs to be seen to be believed!
Price: There is no admission fee.
10. High Bridge Trail State Park
High Bridge Trail State Park, Camp Paradise Entrance, 1466 Camp Paradise Rd, Rice, VA 23966, USA
Wow Factor: It may not be located in the mountains, but High Bridge Trail State Park offers a jaw-dropping overlook. The bridge itself measures 2,400 feet long and sits 125 feet above the Appomattox River. Moreover, it's the single longest recreational bridge in all of Virginia and used to operate as a rail bed. For history and nature enthusiasts alike, there's hardly a better day trip destination in central VA. As you can imagine, it's also a popular destination for biking and hiking.
Price: There is no admission fee.
Best Rock Formations In Virginia
When you think of unique rock formations, visions of the Western landscape likely come to mind. It’s true that states like Utah are famous for their unique rocks and natural arches, but it’s also true that you don’t have to travel outside of Virginia to find these things. Take a look at what makes Natural Bridge and Natural Tunnel so remarkable.
11. Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Wow Factor:Natural Bridge might just be the single most famous natural wonder in Virginia. While beautiful in photos, it's absolutely awe-inspiring in person. This natural arch in Virginia, which measures 215 feet high, spans 90 feet and is estimated to be a whopping 500 million years old.
Price: Entrance to Natural Bridge State Park is $9 per adult.
12. Natural Tunnel
Natural Tunnel State Park, 1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Wow Factor: This mind-boggling rock formation in Virginia is the same height as a 10-story building. This naturally-formed tunnel is so large, in fact, that it's used as a railroad tunnel. Guests visiting Natural Tunnel State Park can experience the tunnel up close by walking through it. There's also a chairlift that can take you down to the base, offering unique views along the way. It's no mystery why Natural Tunnel is considered to be the unofficial Eighty Natural Wonder of the World.
Price: There's a $9 entrance fee to Natural Tunnel State Park.
Unique Natural Wonders In Virginia
You’ve likely gathered by now that there’s no shortage of unique natural wonders in Virginia. These last handful of destinations are sure to impress every kind of nature enthusiast out there!
Wow Factor: Don't be fooled by the name; the Great Dismal Swamp is home to some of the most vital wildlife habitats on the East Coast. Measuring 113,000 acres today, the swamp once covered an area of over one million acres. No fewer than 47 species of mammals call this refuge home -- not to mention 200 kinds of birds and over 90 kinds of butterflies! Recreational opportunities include hiking and paddling. Can you imagine a more otherworldly place to explore by kayak?
Price: There's a $5 daily fee.
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14. Devil's Bathtub
Devil's Bathtub, Devils Fork Loop Trail, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Wow Factor: Ever wondered how Devil's Bathtub got its name? According to legend, the waters of this natural swimming hole in Virginia are cold enough to squelch the fires of the devil himself! This hidden wonder in Virginia is located in Scott County and accessible via a loop trail that requires several stream crossings. For those who are up for the adventure, there's an almost otherworldly landmark in store.
Wow Factor: The towering limestone formations that make up Natural Chimneys in Virginia are truly a sight to behold. During the 19th century, these rocks were referred to as the Cyclopean Towers. In total, there are seven unique chimneys, which range in height from 65 to 120 feet. It's estimated that these formations were created around 500 million years ago.
Price: Day use at the park is completely free, although there are overnight options available for campers at a small fee.
Now that we’ve covered some of the best nature spots in Virginia, we have to ask — which natural attractions in Virginia would you add to the list? We’d love to hear from you — feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below! Before visiting any of the places we mentioned, don’t forget to take a look at our official hiking essentials list. There’s something for all hikers on the list!
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