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Braden Curtis

This is a nice trail in the Pocahontas State Park trail system in Chesterfield, Virginia. It’s family friendly, and the path is clear There is good signage, pointing out connectors to other trails in the system. Great place to visit!

There are nice trails along the Waller Mill Reservoir. The Bayberry Nature Trail is easy to moderate. The Lookout Tower Trail is more moderate - the trail has more ups and downs and plenty of roots across the path. The path had been freshly cleared when we hiked, so the roots were clearly visible.

Short hike along the Waller Mill Reservoir in Williamsburg, Virginia. Easy to moderate.

This is a nice out-and-back hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Good trails, waterfall, and beautiful overlook.

Cool to walk through narrow spaces and view water running, stalactites and stalagmites, and numerous different caves of varying sizes. The whole canyon is cool (temperature-wise) so it’s a great summer activity for everyone.

This boulder field is a unique change from typical hikes. This uphill climb over vehicle-sized boulders is not easy but is great fun. The hike down is steep, taking a toll on knees and toes, but worth the joy of the climb up.

This is a great stop in the Ozarks. The spring is massive, pushing out millions of bubbling, blue-green gallons of cold spring water that slows into a lazy river. The hike along the shore is easy and accessible for young and old alike.

Kaylor’s Knob Trail is a nice 1.8-mile hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trailhead sign says it’s moderately challenging, but it’s wasn’t too difficult for the young boys in our group or the oldest at 60 yrs. The trail was well-marked with a few places for looking out to other surrounding hills.

High Bridge Trail is great for the whole family. The trail is mostly small gravel and its level grade (false flat) makes for easy walking and bike riding for all ages. The bridge is long, high, and provides an expansive view. Signs teach the history of the bridge as a train track in use during the Civil War.

North Bend Park does not disappoint. The geography and open skies over John Kerr reservoir regularly make for spectacular sunsets, with beautifully changing and intensifying hues. Herons, hawks, loons and anhingas, and even bald eagles are commonly spotted. The facilities are adequate, with multiple private showers, and kept very clean. The staff are friendly. Electric and non-electric sites make this a great return destination for tents and campers, small to large. The layout provides cul de sacs that give privacy and easy access to the water for swimming and boating. Boat launches draw lots of fishermen. Kids love the multiple swimming areas and playground, and they can be seen riding their bikes around the main areas. This is easily a family favorite!