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Washington, Virginia

Top Spots in and near Washington

  • Marshall, Virginia

    Hike to the Piedmont Overlook

    5.0
    0.61 mi / 400 ft gain
    In just a .61 mile trail, Piedmont Overlook has so much to offer in terms of views and although it is fairly steep, anyone can do it!  After arriving at Sky Meadows State Park start heading up to the white park office building, this is where the trail begins. To get to the trail head follow Bosto...
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  • Stanley, Virginia

    Hike to Naked Creek Falls

    3.0
    1 mi / 1000 ft gain
    Please note that there is no trail leading to these falls.  This hike is for advanced hikers.Park your car at Naked Creek Overlook in Shenandoah National Park and walk through the field staying to the left. As you start to enter the woods you will hear the creek running on your left. Make your wa...
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  • Madison, Virginia

    Hike Bear Church Rock via the Graves Mill Trail

    3.5
    8.5 mi / 2250 ft gain
    Starting at the Graves Mill Parking area, head up the yellow blazed trail that is marked by a big cement marker. The trail will follow closely beside the gorgeous Rapidan River. Hike for half a mile until you come to the intersection of the Staunton River Trail. Turn left (do not cross the river)...
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  • Madison, Virginia

    Fly Fish on the Rapidan River

    5.0
    5 mi
    Park at the Graves Mill Parking Area. From here you can easily follow the Rapidan River up the mountain. Fishing reports inform that the lowest concentration of brookies are at the lower boundaries of the park so take some time to enjoy the trail and hike up stream. At the lower boundaries you mi...
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  • Stanley, Virginia

    Hike to Bear Church Rock via Bootens Gap

    3.5
    9.4 mi / 800 ft gain
    The trail leads along the ridge of Jones Mountain to the gorgeous views at Bear Church Rock, and it's the perfect hike for those seeking solitude - didn't see another soul the entire time on a holiday weekend.From the parking lot, head out left on the AT northbound. In .4 miles you will come to a...
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  • Elkton, Virginia

    Photograph The Point Overlook

    4.0
    The Point is the best overlook off of Skyline Drive to watch the sun set behind the Blue Ridge Mountains.  The Point Overlook is one of 72 overlooks for people to enjoy the beauty of Shenandoah National Park as they drive along Skyline Drive.  Skyline Drive is the road that winds through the hear...
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  • Elkton, Virginia

    Bearfence Mountain Loop

    4.8
    1.04 mi / 220 ft gain
    This is one of my favorite hikes in Shenandoah National Park for its views, easy access to the trail, and the option to combine it with a much further hike on the AT. There is also a really fun little rock scramble at the top that scares a lot of people away, but makes for a more secluded summit,...
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  • Stanley, Virginia

    Hike the Bird Knob Trail

    8.5 mi / 1300 ft gain
    Bird Knob trail and aptly-named Emerald Pond are a not-so-well-kept secret worth sharing. Located just two hours away from Washington DC, this hike has everything: bouldering, views, and the perfect swimming hole.  Even the drive to reach the hike is scenic and enjoyable with mountain views and f...
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  • Quicksburg, Virginia

    Explore the Shenandoah Caverns

    4.5
    Located west of Washington D.C. off Interstate 81 (exit 269) Shenandoah Caverns is a nice little place tucked away in the Virginia country side. Upon arrival you will be able to park your vehicle for free in the lot right across the street. The building you want to enter is called "The Yellow Bar...
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  • Bluemont, Virginia

    Hike to Hollow Brook Falls

    4.3
    2 mi / 300 ft gain
    This hike will start on the Appalachian Trail and will take you to a beautiful set of falls.  When you arrive at the location you will see numerous spots along the side of the road to park. You'll need to look for the white blaze for the Appalachian Trail (it will head up from the parking area). ...
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  • Stanardsville, Virginia

    Hike South River Falls

    4.5
    4.4 mi
     The trail head for the South River Falls Trail is located at mile marker 63 off of Skyline Drive via the South River Picnic Area.  Loop around the picnic area until you reach the Eastern corner where you will find a sign and a map marking the beginning of the 4.2-mile trail.  Over the first mile...
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  • Wardensville, West Virginia

    White Rocks Loop, George Washington NF

    4.5
    9.26 mi / 1690 ft gain
    The trail begins near the upper parking area next to a closed gate. If you park in the lower parking area, you'll have to walk about .3 miles up the road to get to this gate. Start out on the forest service (FS) orange-blazed trail, following it for about a quarter mile. From there head onto Old...
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  • Wardensville, West Virginia

    Hike Big Schloss

    5.0
    4.2 mi / 1000 ft gain
    Big Schloss (the German word for “palace”) is a popular hike in the George Washington National Forest.  The trailhead is conveniently located at the Wolf Gap Campground.  To begin, follow the path behind the restrooms at the parking lot.  Cross the paved road where you will find a trail map with ...
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  • Wardensville, West Virginia

    Tibbet Knob via Wolf Gap

    5.0
    3.17 mi / 702 ft gain
    Park for free at Wolf Gap Campground and cross the road where you will pass some picnic tables and campsites.  Follow the signs to the yellow-blazed Tibbet Knob trail.  In half a mile, there is a little path to a summit on your left where you can catch a glimpse of Mill Mountain and Big Schloss. ...
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  • Wardensville, West Virginia

    Camp at Wolf Gap

    5.0
    Wolf Gap is a FREE year round campground located just outside of Woodstock, VA. It is a great base camp for several scenic hikes like the Tibbet Knob trail (trailhead is just across the road) and the popular Big Schloss trail (trailhead begins at campsite number 9) -- super convenient if you hav...
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  • Wardensville, West Virginia

    Big Schloss via Wolf Gap Trail

    5.0
    4.27 mi / 997 ft gain
    Big Schloss via Wolf Gap Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Lost City, West Virginia.
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