Virginia Road Trip: Discover the Best Hiking Trails and Nature Attractions

In this post, you’ll discover Virginia’s best road trip routes to see the top nature attractions and explore the finest hiking trails. Moreover, all these destinations are dog-friendly, ensuring that your furry companions can join the adventure!

If you missed the first part of dog-friendly places in Virginia, please go to Part 1.

8. Alexandria

Start your road trip in Alexandria, an independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia, just south of Washington, D.C. It was founded in 1749 and has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. It was an important seaport during the 18th and 19th centuries, significantly influencing the region’s economic development. The heart of Alexandria is its historic Old Town district. It is a great place to hang with your dog and enjoy the charming neighborhood, which features well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, cobblestone streets, and a lively waterfront along the Potomac River. King Street is a walkable mile of centuries-old architecture and 200+ independently owned restaurants and boutiques.

Also, visit Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, a dog-friendly art studio known for having the largest number of Virginia’s artists in one place. The building was initially a munitions factory during World Wars I and II, producing torpedoes for the U.S. Navy.

In 1974, the building was renovated and transformed into an art center, providing studio spaces for artists. Today, it is home to more than 80 individual artist studios. Visitors can explore the studios and watch artists at work, providing a unique opportunity to see the creative process firsthand. The artists working in the studios represent a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry, and more.

Many dining options are available, but Mia’s Italian Kitchen and Virtue Feed & Grain are our favorites. Dogs are welcome to join you at an outdoor table on the patio.

If you have additional time, consider visiting Washington, DC.

9. Occoquan

If you are coming from the North and following I-95, a great stop is the town of Occoquan. It is nestled along the banks of the picturesque Occoquan River and exudes charm and history. This quaint riverside community is a hidden gem, offering visitors a delightful blend of small-town ambiance, captivating architecture, and a vibrant arts and crafts scene. With its scenic waterfront, charming shops, and rich heritage, Occoquan invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere.

As you stroll through the town’s historic district, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved buildings, some dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Occoquan’s past as a bustling mill town is evident in its brick facades, Victorian-style houses, and quaint storefronts. One of the town’s highlights is its picturesque waterfront.

Moreover, Occoquan has various charming restaurants, cafes, and bakeries catering to different tastes. I recommend Belgian Bistro Cock and Bowl, where you can taste Trappist and other fine Belgian beers combined with freshly cooked food, including different mussels’ bowls.

10. Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park offers many beautiful hiking trails in Virginia’s picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a must-stop for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts on your Virginia road trip, while most trails allow dogs.

Over 200,000 acres of Shenandoah National Park is a paradise for hikers, campers, and photographers. The park boasts a network of well-maintained trails, ranging from strolls to challenging treks, so visitors of all ages and fitness levels can explore its wonders.

The Skyline Drive, a scenic highway that winds through the park for 105 miles, offers mesmerizing vistas at every turn. As you drive along this iconic road, you can enjoy panoramic views of the rolling mountains, verdant valleys, and the sweeping expanse of the Shenandoah River.

Hiking in Shenandoah Park is an experience like no other. The park offers diverse trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, which stretches over 100 miles. Lace up your boots and journey to discover hidden waterfalls, tranquil meadows, and panoramic viewpoints.

Rapidan Camp

One of our favorite hikes is Mill Prong Trail, which goes to Rapidan Camp. Park on Milam Gap Parking at Skyline Drive, cross the road, and turn left to Mill Prong trail. The trail crosses Mill Prong Creek and brings you to Rapidan Camp, also known as Camp Hoover, a historic site in Shenandoah National Park. It was the summer retreat of President Herbert Hoover and his wife, Lou Henry Hoover, during his presidency from 1929 to 1933. The camp is situated along the Rapidan River, where it gets its name.

The camp consisted of a collection of rustic cabins and buildings nestled in the mountains, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Shenandoah National Park.

11. Charlottesville

Charlottesville, Virginia, is a historic city and a great stop on your road trip. It is famous for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene.

Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall is a pedestrian-only street with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and theaters. It’s a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area often hosts live music performances, festivals, and events.

Monticello is the former plantation and residence of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering guided tours of Jefferson’s architectural masterpiece and beautiful gardens. It allows dogs but only outside of buildings.

Visit a Winery

Virginia is known for its thriving wine industry and is home to numerous wineries throughout the state, but not all places are dog-friendly.
Glass House Winery is an excellent choice in this area. It has great scenic locations and provides a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.

12. Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park, located in Virginia, is a scenic and historic park with many beautiful hiking trails. At the heart of the park lies the Natural Bridge, a natural limestone arch that spans 215 feet in length and reaches a height of 66 feet. Carved over thousands of years by the forces of Cedar Creek, the hook serves as a testament to the unique geological processes that have shaped the region. Further, the bridge is one of the most significant natural landmarks on the United States East Coast.

Natural Bridge has a long and storied history. Native Americans, including the Monacan Indian Nation, recognized its significance and considered it sacred. It played a prominent role in their legends and spiritual beliefs.

Furthermore, Natural Bridge boasts 6 miles of hiking trails. The Cedar Creek Trail is the most popular, which goes under the Natural Bridge to Monacan Indian Village, connects to the Lost River Trail, and stops at Lace Falls, a 300-foot cascading waterfall.

For the trail map, please click HERE.

13. Devil’s Bathtub Trail

The Devil’s Bathtub Trail is a popular hiking trail in Southwest Virginia, near Duffield. Although quite far, it is one of the best stops on a road trip through Virginia. It is known for its unique geological feature, the Devil’s Bathtub, a deep, swirling pool of clear water formed in a rock formation.

The trailhead is off Route 619 (Devil’s Fork Loop Road) near Duffield, Virginia. There are a couple of parking spots along the gravel road where the trail starts and a small parking lot you can reach if you follow the gravel road, but an SUV is recommended. Another parking area is available 1 mile before the trail, adding 2 miles to your hike. The best option is to come early to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

The trail is approximately 7.2 miles long, including the out-and-back hike to the Devil’s Bathtub. It is moderately complex due to steep sections, stream crossings, and rocky terrain, so good hiking shoes and poles will help. In some areas, there is a rope to help you cross.

The trail winds through beautiful forested areas along Big Stony Creek and offers scenic views of waterfalls and rock formations. The highlight is reaching the Devil’s Bathtub, where hikers can swim or wade in the refreshing pool. Be careful; the water could be icy, so even my dog didn’t want to stay long.

While the Devil’s Bathtub is picturesque, exercise caution, as the rocks around the pool can be slippery. Always prioritize safety when swimming or wading in the area.

If you watch this video, you won’t miss the opportunity to see the beautiful hike.

14. Natural Tunnel State Park

Natural Tunnel State Park is another scenic park. It is named after its feature, the Natural Tunnel, a geological wonder formed over thousands of years.

The Natural Tunnel is a massive natural limestone cave that measures over 850 feet in length and 100 feet in height. Referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it is often called. The flowing waters of Stock Creek carved the tunnel, offering a unique and awe-inspiring sight.

The Tunnel Trail, approximately 0.5 miles long, is one of the scenic hiking trails in Virginia. It leads visitors to an overlook with an excellent view of the Natural Tunnel. It starts near the visitor center and then follows a paved path that descends gradually to the overlook area. You’ll pass through a forested area along the way, providing a pleasant and shaded hike.

Besides the stunning view of the Natural Tunnel at the overlook, it allows you to appreciate its impressive size and natural beauty. It’s a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

While the Tunnel Trail provides the best view of the Natural Tunnel, other trails within Natural Tunnel State Park offer additional hiking opportunities and access to different parts of the park.

For the trail map, click HERE.

Please don’t forget to check out our other DESTINATIONS.