If you’ve lived in Virginia for any amount of time, chances are you’re familiar with the wide array of natural treasures that can be found here. And if you haven’t had the chance to see them all, now’s your chance. This road trip maps out some of the most breathtaking geological features of our state, all in a convenient loop that will make for an unforgettable road trip. Fill up your tank or charge up your EV — it’s time to start exploring! Check out the interactive map for this natural wonders road trip in Virginia.

Side note: The duration of the trip is roughly 15 hours, so you can plan on making stops at some charming local accommodations along the way.

1. Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns, 101 Cave Hill Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
m01229/flickr
Our natural wonders in Virginia road trip begins at none other than the famous Luray Caverns. This site is one of the most fascinating natural areas in the state, transporting visitors to an underground world of bizarre and beautiful rock formations. The commercial cave was discovered by accident in 1878 and continues to awe travelers and explorers today. The enormous site is one of the many treasures in the Shenandoah Valley and is made up of several "rooms," each with unique features. This is one of the most amazing of Virginia's natural wonders.
2. Crabtree Falls
Timothy K Hamilton / flickr
Crabtree Falls, Virginia 22976, USA
Ayna Meredova/Google Local
Crabtree Falls is a picturesque waterfall located just outside of Lexington. It's actually the tallest cascading waterfall series east of the Mississippi River. One of the best features of this must-see site is the well-marked trail that leads hikers right alongside the falls. Just be sure to stay on the path, as slippery rocks can prove fatal. But you'll love this stop along this best road trip in Virginia

3. Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Kelly Williams/flickr
Natural Bridge is one of the most famous natural wonders of Virginia and is also known throughout the world. This geological creation was formed by Cedar Creek, which eroded a tunnel in the limestone. This was a sacred site to Native Americans before the area was colonized, and George Washington himself was among the first to survey this land.

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4. Burke's Garden
Burkes Garden, VA 24651, USA
Josh/flickr
The next stop on our natural wonders road trip in Virginia is a breathtaking one. The area, often referred to as God's Thumbprint earned its nickname because of how it appears from an aerial view. This lush valley in Tazewell is approximately 10 miles in diameter and includes some of the most fertile lands in the state. It's also the highest mountain valley in Virginia, sitting at an elevation of 3,000 feet.

5. Natural Tunnel
Natural Tunnel State Park, 1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Natural Tunnel State Park, 1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Natural Tunnel is so spectacular that it is the main feature of its very own state park. The naturally formed cave is actually large enough to function as a railway tunnel. The opening reaches up to 200 feet in length and formed millions of years ago when groundwater slowly began to dissolve the limestone. And if you look closely enough, you'll even be able to spot signs of prehistoric life embedded in the walls of the tunnel. It's one of the most incredible natural wonders in Virginia.
6. Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Taber Andrew Bain/flickr
Breaks Interstate Park is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the South." Located just on the border of Virginia and Kentucky, this natural wonder shows off the Breaks, which are deep gorges in the Jefferson Natural Forest. The Russel Fork River and the Clinchfield Railroad both run through the base of the park. It is believed that the famous explorer Daniel Boone was among the first settlers to discover this incredible area.
7. Falling Spring Falls
Falling Spring Falls, Virginia 24445, USA
U.S. Geological Survey / flickr
Last, but certainly not least, on this best road trip in Virginia, Falling Spring Falls is a magnificent waterfall. Measuring 80 feet, this free-falling waterfall is a true spectacle. The waterfall is located right off of Route 220, and there's a designated pull-off where visitors can easily park and then admire the falls from a nearby viewing area.

We know that not all of Virginia’s spectacular natural wonders are featured on this trip, but this natural wonders road trip in Virginia will provide an excellent start. Have you visited any of these beautiful places? We’d love to hear about your experience!

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More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Virginia

Beth C. | August 11, 2020

What are the best little-known attractions in Virginia?

The best little-known attractions in Virginia are off-the-beaten-path but well worth the effort it takes to get there. Some of Virginia's coolest hidden gems include Highland County (also known as Virginia's Little Switzerland), Caledon State Park, Kiptopeke State Park, Carvin's Cove near Roanoke, Devil's Bathtub, and the Bluebell Trail. You can read more about these places and start planning your itinerary.

What are the best outdoor adventures in Virginia?

Virginia can easily be described as a playground for outdoor adventures. From the mountains to the rivers, lakes, and ocean, some of the best outdoor adventures in Virginia include:

  • Hiking a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail
  • Canoeing down the James River
  • Camping at False Cape State Park
  • Driving down Back of the Dragon
  • Riding your bike along the Virginia Creeper Trail
  • Parasailing over Virginia Beach,
  • Exploring the Great Dismal Swamp.

 

Looking for more inspiration? Here are the 11 very best day trips you can take in Virginia.

What are the oldest attractions in Virginia?

When it comes to the oldest attractions in Virginia, there are many natural ones that have been around for millions upon millions of years and many man-made ones that are historical:

  • The New River is the second-oldest river in the world.
  • The Appalachian Mountains, which some consider being one of the world's oldest mountain ranges.
  • Jamestown Church
  • Broad Bay Manor
  • Bacon's Castle
  • Willowdale
  • Toddsbury

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