Virginia is known for its scenic vistas, and these four in-state hikes and one in West Virginia have some gorgeous views that are worth the trek.
Raven Rocks
The 5.7-mile out-and-back Raven Rocks trek in Loudoun County is considered moderate to difficult. The trail is quite rocky and includes three steep inclines that will put your cardio fitness to the test. Wear sturdy walking shoes and consider a walking stick. Allow about four hours round trip. Raven Rocks is about 45 miles or one hour from Fairfax. Parking is limited. Trailhead parking is just off Route 7 on Pine Grove Road. Bluemont
Bear’s Den Overlook
This relatively easy, dog-friendly hike is 1.7 miles round trip. Stone outcroppings at the overlook provide the perfect photo op or picnic spot if it’s not too crowded. It can get busy later in the day, or on weekends, so consider going early. It’s about 45 miles or an hour from Fairfax. 18393 Blue Ridge Mountain Rd., Bluemont
Maryland Heights
A three-to-four-hour commitment, this hike is a perfect early morning adventure. It’s moderately strenuous due to the steady incline of the hike’s outbound segment. Panoramic views of historic Harpers Ferry lie directly in front of you. The convergence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers frame the town on either side and offer views of Virginia and Maryland. Note, while the trail is open, portions of the Maryland Heights area are closed through July 31 because of nesting peregrine falcons. It is recommended you park in the Visitor Center lot and take the shuttle bus to town before crossing the railway bridge to the trailhead. From Fairfax, Harpers Ferry is about 51 miles, or an hour and half drive. 171 Shoreline Dr., Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Peaks of Otter
This increasingly popular hiking destination is comprised of three main summits: Sharp Top Mountain, Flat Top Mountain, and Harkening Hill, all of which overlook Abbott Lake, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sharp Top Mountain, the most popular hike for first timers, is quite challenging but worth the effort with 360-degree views from the summit. The park’s trail system is comprised of six hikes of varying levels of difficulty. Bedford is about 206 miles from Fairfax. It will take you more than three hours to get there. You’ll find the town rich in history. 85919 Blue Ridge Pkwy., Bedford
The Great Channels of Virginia
A short drive from Abingdon, this hiking experience is akin to what you might find in the Southwestern United States. Deep, towering sandstone channels likely formed during the last ice age over 400 million years ago are accessed via a 6.6 mile, out-and-back hike of moderate difficulty. The trail offers multiple opportunities to pause on sandstone outcroppings for expansive mountain views as you work your way to the maze-like slot canyons and gorges that make up The Channels. Parking is limited to 10 cars. The Channelsare 347 miles from Fairfax, a drive that will take about five-and-half hours. 23197 Brumley Gap Rd., Abingdon
Feature image by Andrew Wojtanik
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