This Natural Wonders Road Trip Will Show You Virginia Like You’ve Never Seen It Before
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 — it’s time to start exploring! Click here for the interactive map of 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.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Our natural wonders road trip in Virginia 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.
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.
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.
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 land in the state. It's also the highest mountain valley in Virginia, sitting at an elevation of 3,000 feet.
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.
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.
Last, but certainly not least, Falling Spring Falls is a magnificent Virginia 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!
Address: Crabtree Falls, Massies Mill, VA 22976, USA
Address: Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Address: Burkes Garden, VA 24651, USA
Address: Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Address: 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Address: Luray Caverns Service Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Address: Falling Spring Falls, Falling Spring, VA 24445, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Natural wonders road trip in Virginia
August 11, 2020
Beth C.
What are the best little known attractions in Virginia?
Now that you’ve learned about some of the state’s most famous natural wonders, you might be curious to learn more about the best little known attractions in Virginia. These places 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, there are endless opportunities for appreciating all that this state has to offer. For some of the best outdoor adventures in Virginia, you might try your hand at any of the following: 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, and 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 natural attractions in Virginia, there are many that have been around for millions upon millions of years. These include the New River, which is the second-oldest river in the world, and the Appalachian Mountains, which some consider to be one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges. There are manmade attractions in Virginia that have also been around for several hundred years. These include Jamestown Church, Broad Bay Manor, Bacon’s Castle, Willowdale, and Toddsbury. You can learn more about the Jamestown Church by reading one of our previous articles.
Address: Crabtree Falls, Massies Mill, VA 22976, USA
Address: Natural Bridge, VA 24578, USA
Address: Burkes Garden, VA 24651, USA
Address: Natural Tunnel Pkwy, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Address: 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Address: Luray Caverns Service Rd, Luray, VA 22835, USA
Address: Falling Spring Falls, Falling Spring, VA 24445, USA
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A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. 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.
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