Virginia is an extraordinarily unique state. Offering mountains, coastlines, lakes, rivers, farmlands, and beautiful rolling hills, there’s no shortage of picturesque scenery to dive into. Moreover, there’s a treasure trove of beautiful landmarks completely unique to the Old Dominion. These are places so remarkable that you’ll want to make a special effort to see them in person. We’ve compiled a list of some of the state’s most stunning natural wonders as a way to inspire your Virginia bucket list. From giant caverns found under the earth to the tallest mountain peaks in the state, this list will showcase some of the best natural wonders in Virginia. It’s time to start exploring!

1. Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands State Park, 829 Grayson Highland Ln, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363, USA
Cavan Images / Getty Images
Virginia bucket list
Jeff Greenough / Getty Images
Our list of some of the most incredible natural wonders in Virginia takes us to the Virginia Highlands, where wild ponies roam and mountain views are abundant. It may sound strange to consider an entire park as a natural wonder, but trust us when we say Grayson Highlands is in a league of its own when it comes to recreational adventures. Plus, it's possible to hike to the tallest point in Virginia, Mount Rogers, from the park. You'll cross over into the adjacent Mount Rogers Recreational Area, which borders both Tennessee and North Carolina. Tree enthusiasts will enjoy spotting the native Fraser firs, cool weather-loving trees you won't find in other parts of the state.

2. Assateague Island National Wildlife Refuge

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Liz Albro Photography / Getty Images
Anne Chamberlain / Getty Images
Now that we've ventured nearly 6,000 feet in altitude, it's time to head back down to sea level. Assateague Island National Seashore can be found on a barrier island shared by Maryland and Virginia. Its rugged terrain is characterized by sand dunes and dreamy views of the Atlantic. There aren't many amenities here, but the views of the rugged coastline more than make up for any lack of restaurants or shops. It's the place to go if you wish to be totally immersed in the landscape.

3. Lake Drummond

Lake Drummond, Virginia, USA
PK Visual Journeys / Getty
Lake Drummond, Virginia, USA
WHL / Getty Images
Located in the center of the Great Dismal Swamp is a beautiful freshwater lake called Lake Drummond. Shared by Virginia and North Carolina, it's one of only two freshwater lakes in the state. Despite being over 3,000 acres in size, the deepest point in the lake is only 6 feet. While you're there, be sure to take notice of the unique flora common to this region, such as the Bald cypress trees that seem to be floating in the water.

4. Devil's Marbleyard

Devils Marbleyard, Virginia 24579, USA
Steady &Sweaty / AllTrails
Julie Steward / AllTrails
Lace up those hiking boots, because the terrain at Devil's Marbleyard is more than a little bit rocky. This crumbling mountain peak makes for a challenging hike that promises epic scenery. The boulders that give this destination its name range in size from suitcases to vans. Geologists believe the boulders were formed during the last Ice Age when ancient bedrock was broken up into smaller pieces. If you look closely at the boulders, you'll see a pattern of small, dark circles. These are actually fossilized worm tubes from the days when the rockface was a sandy beach!

5. Great Falls Park

Virginia bucket list
Great Falls Street, Great Falls St, McLean, VA, USA
John Baggaley / Getty Images

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 Spend The Day Exploring Dozens Of Waterfalls In Virginia's Shenandoah National Park

Spend The Day Exploring Dozens Of Waterfalls In Virginia's Shenandoah National Park
mbell / Getty Images
For dramatic rapids, waterfalls, and rushing water, head to Great Falls Park along the border of Virginia and Maryland. It's a popular destination among hikers and kayakers, and with such stunning white-water rapids, it's no mystery why. Head to Mather Gorge, photographed directly above, and you'll notice dramatic clifftops.

6. Breaks Interstate Park

Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Joshua Moore / Getty Images
Joshua Moore / Getty Images
Did you know that Virginia was home to the Grand Canyon of the South? It's located at Breaks Interstate Park, and it's positively extraordinary. For over 250 million years, the Russell Fork of the Big Sandy River has carved out a stunning mountain canyon, nicknamed "The Breaks." To visit this park is to experience some of the most rugged Appalachian Mountain terrain in the East. From hiking excursions to guided elk tours, and even an exhilarating zip line, this picturesque park has it all.

7. Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns Service Road, Luray Caverns Service Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
SergeYatunin / Getty Images
Virginia bucket list
UnnaB / Getty Images
Now that we've explored lots of places aboveground, it's time to venture below. Luray Caverns is quite possibly the most famous caverns system on the East Coast, and it's no mystery why. Since its discovery in 1878, this landmark has drawn visitors from all around the globe. Especially fascinating is the pool of sapphire water known as the Wishing Well. Over the years, the Wishing Well has accumulated over one million dollars, all of which has been collected and donated to local charities. That's reason enough to toss a coin and make a wish when you visit!

8. The Sand Cave at Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

Cumberland Gap, Virginia 24248, USA
Emily Bollich / AllTrails
Cassie Mullis / AllTrails
If you're up for an exhilarating - and lengthy - hike, the Sand Cave at Cumberland Gap National Historic Park won't disappoint. The trek to reach the cave is approximately four miles each way; however, the stunning scenery and otherworldly sand cave is well worth the effort. What's fascinating is that the cave isn't technically a cave but rather a giant rock formation that's been gradually eroded by wind, rain, and other weather.

9. Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
John Dalton / Google
Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Va. Dept. of Conservation & Recreation / flickr
Last but certainly not least, Natural Bridge is a natural wonder worth seeking out. Located not far from Lexington, this ancient formation promises to take your breath away. It's 215 feet tall and made up of limestone, which has gradually been carved away by Cedar Creek. The bridge is now part of an official state park, which offers all kinds of memorable activities.

Watch this amazing YouTube video by GucciVisual showing you a glimpse inside these natural wonders that are the most beautiful places in Virginia. 

So, what are your thoughts on these exciting natural wonders in Virginia? How many of them do you need to add to your Virginia bucket list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! Also, before you head out to explore these incredible gems in Virginia, check out our article on the must-have hiking accessories to make sure that you have all your essential items. 

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More to Explore

Virginia Bucket List

Melanie J. | December 01, 2023

What are some more hidden gems in Virginia?

If you’re searching for more hidden gems in Virginia, here are 10 that belong on your Virginia bucket list:

  • Belle Isle State Park, Lancaster
  • Historic Polegreen Church, Mechanicsville
  • White Oak Lavender Farm, Harrisonburg
  • The Mill Mountain Star, Roanoke
  • Burke's Garden, Tazewell County
  • Virginia Safari Park, Natural Bridge
  • Carvins Cove, Botetourt/Roanoke County
  • Boxerwood Nature Center, Lexington
  • Drewry's Bluff, Richmond Battlefield Park, Chesterfield
  • Old City Cemetery Museums and Arboretum, Lynchburg

 

Read our article telling you more about these hidden gems in Virginia.

What are the best waterfalls in Virginia?

We have so many incredible waterfalls in Virginia that are worthy of your bucket list, and here are 10 that we like the best:  

  • Crabtree Falls, Newton County
  • Maymont Waterfall, Richmond
  • Falling Spring Falls, Covington
  • Straight Branch Falls, Damascus
  • Mock Mill Falls, Damascus
  • Cascade Falls, Pembroke
  • Bent Mountain Falls, Shawsville,
  • Apple Orchard Falls, Buchanan
  • Roaring Run Falls, Eagle Rock
  • Statons Creek Falls, Buena Vista

 

Discover more about these cascades by reading our road trip article featuring some of the best waterfalls in Virginia.

What are some of the most beautiful places in Virginia?

Some of the most beautiful places in Virginia include: 

 

Be sure to check out our previous article with more information on the most beautiful places in Virginia.

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