piedmond

Free your body and your brain from being indoors – get outside to all the beautiful places there are to explore in Virginia!  Walking and hiking isn’t just for fair weather, friends, it’s a great way to shed some winter pounds, get a change of scenery, and breathe in fresh air!

The winter landscape offers another perspective, such as the frozen waterfalls and quiet, uncrowded trails.  Often one of the most popular places to hike in Shenandoah National Park, Dark Hollow Falls, near Luray, is fairly crowded with summertime visitors.  As a winter destination, you can see the 70-foot cascading waterfall at your own pace, without the crowds. In the coldest months, the waterfall has been known to freeze, creating a stunning winter scene.

A hiking destination for all skill levels is Mason Neck State Park, near Lorton.  They have ten hiking trails that are mostly flat.  One trail runs along the beach, showcasing wintery coastal scenery.

Located in the southern part of Gloucester County along the York River, you’ll find Machicomoco State Park.  There’s a paved trail along the main park road for walking or bike riding, and an open-air interpretive pavilion provides information on the culture, landscape and movement of Virginia Indians through displays and a walking path in the landscape.  So you can learn something and get fresh air!

If you love birds and wildlife, there’s always a chance to see critters on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, a network of 65 loops.  Virginia Department of Wildlife brags that there are 400 species of birds, 150 species of mammals, 150 species of amphibians and reptiles, 250 species of fish, plus hundreds of butterfly, dragonfly, and other invertebrate species to view in Virginia.  You can choose mountain, piedmont, or coastal regions to visit!

Or if sitting in a comfy chair indoors is your idea of a winter activity, you can look at books about hiking in Virginia, and make plans for warmer weather.  You’ll be exercising your brain!