outdoor activities in virginia

Stretch your legs on an Appalachian Trail hike. (Photo: Getty Images)

Outdoors

6 Ways to Savor the Great Outdoors in Virginia

With some of the country’s most picturesque countryside and coastline to match, Virginia is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. Here are six popular spots to hike, sightsee and unwind (outdoors) in the Commonwealth:

1. Hit the River

Sometimes Virginia’s iconic countryside is best seen from the water. Float along 45 miles of the Upper James River Trail for some of the state’s best canoeing, kayaking and fishing. It’s the stuff dreams—and countless landscape paintings—are made of.

outdoor activities in virginia
(Photo: Getty Images)

2. Travel Back in Time

Meander through the Chesapeake Bay Arboretum’s 48 acres for a glimpse backinto simpler—and wilder—times. Explore the hardwood forest trails, visit the original farmhouse (built in 1730) and don’t forget to bring a picnic.

3. Relax on the Beach

With three postcard-worthy beaches, Virginia Beach offers couples and families miles of sand and boardwalk from which to find their spot. Laying out not your thing? Rent a bike or kayak, and reward yourself afterwards with a fresh seafood meal.

4. Hike the Appalachian Trail

Right outside of Winchester is the famed Appalachian Trail, where hiking, bikingand fishing span some 14 states. Summit Hawksbill Mountain to take in anoverwhelmingly beautiful view of the Shenandoah Valley below.

outdoor activities in virginia
(Photo: Getty Images)

5. Sail the Chesapeake

Tour Downtown Norfolk’s waterfront the right way—on a sailboat. See TownPoint Park, Fort Norfolk, Harbour Park and Battleship Wisconsin while driftingacross the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor.

outdoor activities in virginia
(Photo: Getty Images)

6. Sip Virginia Wine

You’ve got your choice of some f200 wineries along the Virginia Wine Trail; where will you go? Pick a trail and be sure to sample its Cabernet Francs and Viogniers, which regularly win awards at wine competitions. Some popular wineries include: Barboursville Vineyards, Early Mountain Vineyards, Valhalla Vineyards and Ankida Ridge Vineyards.