Lake Laura in Basye is one of 12 wonderful lake hikes in Virginia
Hello,
Whether you're looking for a challenging summit, a waterfall-filled adventure, or the perfect hike near your next getaway, I've got a few ideas.
In this week’s newsletter:
📋 My favorite Virginia hiking round-ups
📍 The best hikes near 10 Virginia cities and towns
🧭 Ranger-led state park hikes happening this weekend
Time to lace up and see what Virginia’s trails have in store.
—Erin Gifford 🥾
House Mountain
My Favorite Virginia Hiking Round-Ups
I’ve completed more than 300 hikes in Virginia, and over the years I've organized many of my favorites into easy-to-browse round-up guides.
Whether you're chasing waterfalls, scrambling over rocks, or tackling a bucket-list challenge, these hike round-up posts are worth bookmarking for your next adventure.
From House Mountain to Sugar Run Mountain, these challenging hikes deliver steep climbs, rugged terrain, and some of Virginia's most rewarding views.
Organized by milepost from north to south, this guide covers everything from Fox Hollow Trail (MP 4.6) to Little Calf Mountain (MP 99.5).
A companion to my Skyline Drive guide, this post highlights Virginia hikes along the Parkway, from Humpback Rocks (MP 5.8) to the Fisher Peak Loop Trail (MP 213.0).
Discover some of Virginia's most scenic waterfalls, including favorites like Apple Orchard Falls, St. Mary’s Falls, and White Rock Falls.
These trails lead to some of Virginia's most remarkable landscapes, from a massive sand cave to the state’s highest natural point.
Pair your hike with water views at destinations like Lake Anna, The Mariners’ Lake, and Lake Laura, where easy trails and lakeside scenery go hand in hand.
Hiking with Kids Virginia (available on Amazon)
📚 Make Every Hike a Family Adventure
Virginia is full of waterfalls, scenic vistas, tidal marshes, and mountains just waiting to be explored.
Hiking with Kids Virginia: 52 Great Hikes for Families highlights 50+ kid-friendly trails across the state, complete with full-color photos, maps, and details on distance, difficulty, and terrain.
Each hike is designed to keep children engaged, curious, and excited about the outdoors.
I might be biased, but this book is a must-have for your next family adventure!
Three Ridges, one of my favorite hikes near Waynesboro
Bests Hikes Near 10 Virginia Cities
Not sure where to hike? I've rounded up my favorite trails near some of Virginia's most popular cities and towns.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for a new local adventure, these hikes are a great place to start.
📌 Abingdon
My fave: Brumley Mountain Trail
📌 Ashburn
My fave: Beaverdam Reservoir
My fave: Pandapas Pond
📌 Bluemont
My fave: Raven Rocks
My fave: Ragged Mountain Natural Area
📌 Luray
My fave: Kennedy Peak
📌 Richmond
My fave: James River Park Loop
📌 Roanoke
My fave: Star Trail
My fave: Three Ridges
My fave: Lookout Tower Trail
This list is just the beginning. I've also rounded up favorite hikes near other Virginia destinations, including Lynchburg, Leesburg, and Virginia Beach.
Virginia Summits (available on Amazon)
📚 Reach New Heights with Virginia Summits
Virginia’s most breathtaking views are waiting at the top.
Virginia Summits: Hiking 40 Stunning Peaks guides you to the state’s best summit hikes, from iconic climbs like Old Rag to lesser-known high points, like Terrapin Mountain.
With full-color photos, maps, and detailed trail info, this guide helps you plan unforgettable peak experiences.
If you love big views and rewarding climbs, this book belongs in your pack.
Widewater State Park in Stafford, Virginia
State Park Hikes This Weekend
Many Virginia State Parks host ranger-led hikes on weekends. Most programs are free, though standard parking fees may apply.
Friday (6/26)
Fairy Stone: Oak Hickory Trail Guided Hike, 9–10 a.m.
Hayfields: Eagle’s Rest Guided Hike, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
James River: Habitat Hike, 10–11 a.m.
Natural Tunnel: Moonrise Hike, 8:30–10:30 p.m.
New River Trail: Fries: A History Walk, 4–5 p.m.
Powhatan: Blacklight Bug Walk, 9–10 p.m.
Sky Meadows: Twilight Hike, 8:30–10:30 p.m.
Widewater: Guided Full Moon Hike, 5:30–7 p.m.
Saturday (6/27)
Claytor Lake: Tree ID Hike, 5–6 p.m.
Douthat: Basic Tree ID Walk, 1–2 p.m.
Douthat: Step Back in Time History Walk, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
First Landing: Sunset Beach Stroll, 7:30–8:30 p.m.
Grayson Highlands: Sunrise Hike with a Ranger, 5:30–7 a.m.
Powhatan: Butterfly ID Walk, 1–2 p.m.
Sweet Run: Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy Bird Walk, 8–11 a.m.
Sweet Run: Guided Hike – Trees with a Purpose, 1–2:30 p.m.
York River: Stream to Sea Stroll, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Sunday (6/28)
Smith Mountain Lake: Songbird Stroll, 9–10:30 a.m.
Staunton River: Bluebird Hike, 9–10 a.m.
Sweet Run: Butterfly Walk, 1–3 p.m.
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