Do you love the outdoors and nature? If so, you may not want to ever leave the Virginia Valley once you have visited. Our entire region is an outdoor adventurers' dream come true. Sparkling rivers and streams, unreal mountain vistas and endless hiking trails are just a few of the wonderful "amenities" Mother Nature has afforded us here in the Virginia Valley. Additionally, our area is known for its many natural caves. These underground wonders provide a look at our planet seen in only a few other locations on earth.
Appalachian Trail
In 1921, conservationist Benton Mackaye proposed an “experiment in regional planning” – the Appalachian Trail. Work began the following year, and by 1937 the 2100-mile-long trail was complete. The first person walked its entire length, from Georgia to Maine, in 1948. Elevations range from 6,642 feet at Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains to near sea level at the Hudson River in New York. Accessible via Exit 99 on I-64 and Route 250. 3 miles east of Waynesboro.
www.nps.gov/appa/
Basic Park
The western boundary of this park is the South River where anglers of all ages may test their skill at fishing for bass, bluegill, catfish, trout, etc. A picnic pavilion and softball field are also located in this park for your enjoyment.
This park is the future home of a proposed baseball and softball complex intended to serve Waynesboro’s baseball and softball enthusiasts. When constructed this facility will include 3 new baseball and one new softball field all with lights, new restrooms, and concession facilities.
This park is located off of Hopeman Parkway on Genicom Drive.
www.waynesboro.va.us/pr-parks-basic.php
Betsy Bell Wilderness Park
This park offers a magnificent view of the Shenandoah Valley from its observation platform (elev. 1,959 feet), which looks due east toward the Blue Ridge Mountains. The summit has picnic facilities and an observation area. The park may be reached by turning onto Betsy Bell Road from Greenville Avenue (Route 11). Mountain bikers may wish to test their endurance by tackling the entire length of the access road. It offers a difficult climb, a breathtaking view, and an exciting downhill run. Hikers will find a welcome natural area to explore and may catch a glimpse of the deer herd which haunts the slopes.
540-332-3945 Betsy Bell Rd., Staunton
Betsy Bell Wilderness Park
Bike the Valley
The Central Shenandoah Valley’s bucolic landscapes, quaint cities and towns, and various historic, natural and cultural resources provide an ideal setting for bicyclists. Bicycling in the region is growing rapidly in popularity, and the area is increasingly recognized as a bicycle touring destination. The Bike the Valley website offers a comprehensive network of cycling facilities connecting neighborhoods, communities, bicyling routes and key destination points.
www.bikethevalley.org
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Parkway idea came out of the Great Depression as a way to link Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks by way of a recreational motor road. It was constructed in segments, usually from one major access point to another. Construction began in 1935 near the North Carolina – Virginia border and ended with completion of the section around Grandfather Mountain in 1987. Campgrounds, picnic areas, visitor centers, lodges and restaurants offer places of recreation, relaxation, or education. Log cabins and turn-of-the-century mansions bring opportunities to learn about the people who have called the Blue Ridge their home. “Leg stretcher” trails and hundreds of parking overlooks open up the area for exploration. And Blue Ridge communities, like Waynesboro, along the way invite you to stay longer than you’d planned. Accessible from Exit 99 on I-64 and 250. 3 Miles east of Waynesboro at Milepost 0 www.blueridgeparkway.org Call: (828) 259-0701
Confederate Breastworks Trail on Shenandoah Mountain
Elevation: 2875 ft. Located less than 2 miles west of Ramsey’s Draft, this site is not only a mountaintop summit, but it is also bears historical significance as one of Virginia’s preserved Civil War battlefields. This site offers a walking tour (winding, half mile loop) with interpretive signage along the Confederate Breastworks on Shenandoah Mountain. At an approximate elevation of 3500 feet, this is also a wonderful site for hawk-watching in the fall. The scenic views from an open vista along this county-line mountain peak attract most travelers along US 250. The Shenandoah Mountain Trail runs north and south along the crest of the mountain. Hiking trails also lead down to the Ramsey’s Draft watershed.
540-885-8028 North River Ranger District
www.fs.fed.us/
Constitution Park
Land for this park was donated in part by E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Company. This facility in downtown Waynesboro, includes a picnic pavilion used as Waynesboro’s Farmers Market and a soccer field. This site has been the location of numerous city special events including concerts, car shows, and Civil War reenactments. This site was also designated as Virginia’s first Urban Trout Fishery.
For gardening enthusiasts in town, this park is home to the Waynesboro Arboretum. The arboretum has labeled tree collections, shrub displays, bulb plantings, annual and perennial areas.
This park is located in downtown Waynesboro at the intersection of Main Street and McElroy Street.
www.waynesboro.va.us/pr-parks-constitution.php
Coyner Springs Park
This rustic park where it is not unusual to share the fresh country air with numerous wildlife such as red-tailed hawks, woodpeckers, squirrels, fox, and even a deer or two, was developed as a picnic area and is well supplied with picnic tables, grills, and a large picnic pavilion. Volleyball, horseshoes, and family reunions and company picnics are popular activities in this park.
Coyner Springs Park is located off of Lyndhurst Road at the city limits.
www.waynesboro.va.us/pr-parks-coyner.php
Crabtree Falls
The Crabtree Falls Trail features a series of five cascades and a number of smaller ones that fall a total distance of 1,200 feet. The trail provides views of the falls from overlooks constructed to accent the beauty of the valley. The first overlook is just 700 feet from the lower parking lot, making it an excellent stopover for travelers. The more adventuresome hiker may continue to Crabtree Meadows where the trail ends, or to the Appalachian Trail, which is just one half mile beyond Crabtree Meadows.
11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy. (Rt. 56)Montebello
www.fs.fed.us/
George Washington and Jefferson National Forest
These two national forests stretch from one end of Virginia to the other, as well as extending into West Virginia, along the ruggedly beautiful Appalachians. Virtually every type of outdoor recreation activity you can imagine is available. Of course hiking, fishing, mountain bicycling and camping lead the way, but don’t forget hawk watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, nature photography, and orienteering.
www.fs.fed.us/
Gypsy Hill Park
A sprawling 214 acre park that includes a public golf course, football and baseball stadiums, a gymnasium, a lake, two playgrounds, three youth baseball fields, a public swimming pool, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, tennis courts, the Gypsy Express Mini Train, the Duck Pond and a bandstand. Pavilions with modest outdoor cooking facilities and picnic tables are spread throughout the park. 1.3 mile circular roadway is a designated play street and is suitable for walkers, bicyclists and rollerbladers. Hours: M-Su 4:00 am-11:00 pm Fees: Free (pool and certain athletic games have entrance fees)
540-332-3945 600 Churchville Ave., Staunton
Gypsy Hill Park
Humpback Rocks
Visitors can tour a collection of nineteenth-century farm buildings. The area also houses a visitor center with exhibits, a picnic area, and trails. Interpretive programs during the summer months, staffed with costumed rangers who demonstrate mountain crafts and skills. Hike to the top of Humpback Rocks for spectacular views.
Milepost 5.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
www.nps.gov
Little North Mountain - Goshen Wildlife Management Area
4010 West Broad Street, P.O. Box 11104,
Richmond, Virginia 23230
Montgomery Hall Park
148 acres of rolling hills offers quiet woodlands and hiking, fitness and birding trails. The park also has softball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, a disc-golf course, soccer complex and a public swimming pool. Hours: M-Su 4:00 am-11:00 pm Fees: Free (pool and certain athletic games have entrance fees)
540-332-3945 1000 Montgomery Ave., Staunton
Montgomery Hall Park
Natural Chimneys
I-81 exit 240, 94 Natural
Chimneys Ln., Mt. Solon VA 22843. Towering rock
formations, picnic areas,
campground, hiking trails.
Jousting tournament 3rd Sat in June & Aug. I-81 exit 240, W to Bridgewater & follow signs south on US 42. 888 430-2267
www.uvrpa.org/naturalchimneys.htm
Natural Wonders Grand Caverns
I-81 exit 235, 5 Grand Caverns Dr., Grottoes VA 24441. America’s oldest show cave. Rated #2 cave in the U.S... by Parade Magazine.
Discover Virginia underground. 200 rare shield formations. Open 9-5 daily April-October; weekends November-March. 888 430-2283
www.uvrpa.org/grandcaverns.htm
North Park
This park has facilities for the following activities: basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and softball. A picnic pavilion, tables and grills are also available for your family’s outings.
This Park is located off of Bridge Avenue, across from Waynesboro Public Works Operations, and is bordered by the South River.
www.waynesboro.va.us/pr-parks-north.php
Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness
Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness in the George Washington National Forest is a rugged and steep piece of land on the eastern side of Shenandoah Mountain, a region redolent with memories of America’s Civil War. One of the largest tracts of virgin forest left in the eastern United States has been preserved here. Among the variety of plants you may see are some virgin hardwoods and hemlocks standing in the upper elevations and a more typical Appalachian forest of tulip poplar, red oak, and basswood. Watch for deer, bear, and the many smaller mammals that inhabit the woods of Virginia.
540-885-8028 North River Ranger District
Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness
Ridgeview Park
A beautiful evergreen-lined lane at the south end of Magnolia Avenue welcomes you to this park where benches line the bank of the South River which meanders through the park.. A picnic pavilion, picnic areas, an accessible picnic area, tables and charcoal grills are located here for your enjoyment.
The 50 meter War Memorial Pool II and bathhouse offers the perfect opportunity for all members of your family to cool off from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Young family members will enjoy a large play creative play area. Fishermen should take note that the South River is a good place to fish. Bass, perch, bluegill, catfish and even trout can be found within its waters. Other facilities located within the park include, Little League, Babe Ruth and Farm League baseball fields, an amphitheater, 3 soccer fields, tennis courts, a basketball court and a walking or jogging trail.
Ridgeview Park is located at the end of South Magnolia Avenue.
Shenandoah National Park
Take Skyline Drive along the crest of the mountains through the woods and past spectacular vistas. Hike in the shade of oak trees along the Appalachian Trail, discover the stories from Shenandoah’s past, or just relax in the wonder of wilderness.
540- 999-3500
www.nps.gov/shen
Shenandoah Valley Fall Foliage Bike Festival
The various historic, natural and cultural resources of Staunton, VA and the quaint towns and scenic countryside surrounding the city provide an ideal setting for bicyclists. The winding country roads offer safe riding and outstanding vistas to enhance the experience. Numerous hills offer challenges to the most experienced riders, particularly those riding in the Century. All other routes are planned for every level of riding experience from 42 miles to 10 miles. Rest stops on all routes and full SAG support.
Participate in the annual Fall Foliage Bike Festival held in Staunton, VA each October. Enjoy a fun filled weekend with well marked routes, lots of good food and friendly people who are glad you choose to come to this area
540- 416-0267
www.shenandoahbike.org
Sherando Lake
Known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sherando’s beauty and history are part of the lives of several generations of Virginians. Families bring their children to Sherando and relive memories of their own parents bringing them. Swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking and camping are among the activities you can enjoy.
Glenwood & Pedlar Ranger District 96
Sherando Lake Rd., Lyndhurst
Sherando Lake
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive, the only public road through Shenandoah National Park, rides the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for 105 miles through the park, then joins the Blue Ridge Parkway which connects [the Skyline Drive to...] Shenandoah to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC.
www.nps.gov/shen
St. Mary’s Wilderness
The U.S. Congress designated the Saint Mary’s Wilderness in 1984 and it now has a total of 9,835 acres. The largest Virginia Wilderness on national forest land, it is located in the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. It has elevations ranging from 1,700 feet to 3,400 feet, and includes 17 miles of trails. Along the Saint Mary’s you can fish for native trout, walk through rhododendron and mountain laurel, and discover a lovely waterfall. The area was mined for iron ore and manganese until the mid-1900s, and evidence of those bygone days remains along the Saint Mary’s River Gorge.
Glenwood & Pedlar Ranger District, Steeles Tavern
St. Mary’s Wilderness
STAR Trail at WWRC
The STAR Trail at WWRC welcomes visitors daily, free of charge, from dawn to dusk. The half-mile accessible crushed stone trail enters the white pine forest above the picnic shelter and crosses the lake onto an island with a bridge continuing the trail around the lake. The trail-traveler will find benches along the trail for quiet enjoyment of the beautiful and peaceful surroundings.The lake offers fishing piers (license required) and a picnic shelter with barbeque pits. The lakeside fitness park offers six exercise stations to challenge users to stretch, monitor their heart rate, work on balance and improve their strength.
The South River
The South River runs through downtown Waynesboro. It connects our five City parks and is the future home of the South River Greenway. The South River is one of the only two urban trout fisheries in the state – and site of the annual Virginia Fly Fishing Festival in April. The South River is a tributary to the Shenandoah River, and the southern-most headwater tributary of the Potomac watershed. Waynesboro is the southern-most city in the headwater tributary of the Potomac watershed. The South River has played a significant role in the industrial development of Waynesboro, a factor in attracting such industries as E. I. Du Pont de Nemours, Virginia Metalcrafters (formerly Rife-Loth Stove Company), Genicom and other major employers.
waynesboro.va.us/tourism-vaflyfishing.php
Lodging/Gear
Mossy Creek Flyfishing
1790-92 East Market Street Harrisonburg, VA 22081
Phone: 540.434.2444 or Toll Free: 866.667.9275
www.mossycreekflyfishing.com
Black Dog Bikes
121 South Lewis St., Staunton, VA 24401 540 887 8700
www.blackdogbikes.net
Cycle-Recycle Co.
2800-C West Main St., Waynesboro - (540) 949-8973
Rockfish Gap Outfitters.
1461 E Main St, Waynesboro, VA - (540) 943-1461
Wilderness Adventure
50 Middlebrook Ave., Staunton, VA 24401
info@wildernessadv.com 540-885-3200
www.wildernessadv.com
Wildlife Trails
For information about wildlife and birding trails, please visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
