By Alex Shannon Photography by Jack Looney
Take a Hike Climb, Clamber, and Conquer Some of the Best Hiking Trails Central Virginia Has to Offer
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irginia’s immensely rich history rivals that of any American state, and while we’re all familiar with the first settlement at Jamestown, the writing of the Declaration of Independence, and the eight presidents who have called Virginia home, we often overlook the vast natural history of our picturesque Commonwealth. The phrase “old as the hills” takes on new meaning when you realize the Blue Ridge Mountains, among the oldest on earth, date back 480 million years. During the late Paleozoic Era (300-250 million years ago), the Blue Ridge was roughly the size of the Himalayas. (Try visualizing this the next time you drive over Pantops.) In the past 220 million years, lack of major tectonic activity coupled with weathering and erosion has helped wear them down to their present state. Shenandoah National Park’s flora and fauna, as well as beautiful rock structures and water falls provide wonder ful opportunities to appreciate firsthand the richness of Virginia’s landscape. One of the best ways to experience the immense natural beauty of our state is to get outside and take a hike. A host of great hiking trails can be found in every region of the state–from the coast to the mountains; Shenandoah National Park alone includes over 500 miles of hiking trails, enough to keep even the most ardent hikers engaged. Here are a few of our favorites in the Central Virginia area. ALBEMARLE