Stephen Catalano
Just knocked this one out a couple months ago. I decided to paddle my way down the river and then camp along the shores. If you're looking for rentals, there are a couple places including Shenandoah River Adventures. That being said, folks love to tube and canoe down the river so it can get a little crowded.
4.0
Phenomenal spot for sunrise or sunset. Don't forget to bring a telephoto lens if you have one, because there are some amazing layers to capture if you get the right light!
5.0
Short (although surprisingly steep) hike for sweeping views of the Piedmont region of Virginia. As the author noted, there are spots to stop for shade/catch your breath, but keep in mind that during the summer this can be a very hot hike. I'd recommend you start early to avoid the heat and humidity!
5.0
Amazing little park. The flowers are gorgeous and its a wonderful spot to come and take photos. I'm not sure as to why I had never been before, but was stoked that I went earlier this year! Check it out if you've got the time.
4.0
This is a go-to for a quick weekend hike when the drive out to the Blue Ridge is just a bit too far. It's a fun hike with opportunities to do some rock scrambling. Parking lot fills up quick on fair-weather weekends, so get there early or go in the evening!
4.0
You go to any local gear shop and ask for a recommendation of a nearby hike, they'll most likely tell you Scotts Run. Its accessible, easygoing, and family friendly. Bring along your pup, too!
4.0
Since this is right smack dab in the middle of Arlington and DC, its a great little getaway thats a short drive, walk, or bike ride away. As mentioned before, the parking here fills up very fast, so arrive early if you plan on spending a couple hours on the island or walking the Mt. Vernon Trail.
4.0
The trails are paved, the park is extremely well maintained and clean, and its usually not crowded. The wildlife and fresh air make it a great spot for an afternoon run during the warmer months!
4.0
If you're local to the DC area, this is a great hike that close to home if you don't want to undertake the drive out to the Shenandoah region. That also means its far more crowded with families and others looking for a slice of nature. Start early! And although its family friendly, there are a couple sections that are steep and require a little bit of hand over hand scrambling, so keep that in mind when bringing along children/elderly.
3.0
Knocked this one out in 2019. Jake is right, easily one of the best places to hike on the East Coast. Its a tough hike, very muddy, but the views and all the different species of plants make up for it. The biodiversity up there is really fascinating, and this loop gives you a chance to experience it all. Bring plenty of water. No phone service up there either!
5.0
Highly recommend Bear Rocks to any landscape photographer. It's a phenomenal view with sunrises and sunsets that light up the sky. I'd also recommend bringing along a telephoto lens, as there is an opportunity to really compress the layers of the landscape, specifically the rolling hills of the Alleghany range.
5.0
Just crossed this off the to-do list and I was blown away. I went for an entire day in July, and although it was pretty hot/the biting flies were out, we had a great time. There is plenty of wildlife to see, tons of little paths to kayak down/into, and lots to explore. Keep an eye on the weather, however, because you're highly exposed out in the refuge. Bring your bug spray, sunscreen, and plenty of water. And if you're looking for rentals, I can't recommend blackwateradventuresmd.com highly enough. Great staff, very flexible, and just all around wonderful people. Its family owned and operated, and all the kayaks are in amazing condition!
5.0
Well maintained trails, and lots of them, offer great opportunities for light trail running. Dog friendly as well, if you'd like to bring them along!
5.0
Been through here quite a few times and its a hit if you'd like to bring friends/family along. They can stay busy while you take photos (if you're focused on the falls) with plenty of sitting areas, walking trails, and even outdoor grills (if you're making an evening out of it).
5.0
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