From mountain top vistas to waterside perches, the trails at Virginia State Parks lead to some of the most iconic hiking spots in the region. Plan your next weekend adventure to one of these top destinations.
In the mountains near the Virginia-West Virginia border, Douthat State Park hosts more than 40 miles of trails to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Follow Mountain Top Trail along several ridges to a lookout, plus connect with more miles of trails in the George Washington National Forest, or hike Blue Suck Falls Trail to beautiful views of the water and whirlpool at the base.
Surrounded by a state forest, Holliday Lake State Park offers a quiet and relaxing getaway by the water. Hike 6.5 miles around the entire lake, across a 40-foot dam, and through an old-growth forest to several overlooks on Lakeshore Trail. Or give your legs a rest and paddle the Sunfish Aquatic Trail to get up close and personal with the lake environment.
On Virginia’s coast, York River State Park protects a rare estuarine environment where freshwater and saltwater meet. Over 30 miles of trails lead to diverse and delicate ecosystems. Look for ospreys and great blue herons at one of the observation decks along Taskinas Creek Trail, search for signs of the past at Fossil Beach, and walk over marshes on Mattaponi Trail.
Just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Philpott Reservoir, wander the trail system at Fairy Stone State Park as you search for the legendary fairy stones. Choose from a variety of options for views of the lake and surrounding mountains, creek crossings, steep inclines, and waterfalls. Little Mountain Falls Trail is an excellent choice if you want to see all of those sights on one trip.
The trails at Natural Tunnel State Park will lead you to some of Virginia’s most unique geological features. Walk Lover’s Leap Trail to view the natural tunnel, carved out over millions of years, from above or take the trail to the tunnel floor to get a sense of perspective.
Featuring more than 90 miles of trails, it’s hard to see the same view twice at Pocahontas State Park. From paved accessible trails and forest roads to flowy singletrack, these trails were built for users of all types and abilities. But that’s not all there is to discover. With 41 parks spread throughout the commonwealth, there’s always something new to see and do at a Virginia State Park.
Cover photo: Hike more than 40 miles of trails at Douthat State Park
