There are some beautiful mountains and hillsides throughout the Shenandoah National Park and surrounding landscape perfect for hiking through the wilderness. You will enjoy pristine trails, spectacular views, and a variety of pathways for anyone from beginners to experts. Hiking in Northern VA is one of the best outdoor activities that you can enjoy during your stay at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring. The stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and forests that surround this area are a piece of geography that you will want to explore. Soak it all in and appreciate nature in all its splendor when you go hiking in Northern VA!
Find out more about all of the outdoor recreational activities to enjoy near The Inn at Vaucluse Spring when you download our free Vacation Guide. It’s full of the best recommendations for things to see and do during your stay, like hiking in Northern VA.
5 Places to Go Hiking in Northern VA
Buzzard Rock North
There are some great places to go hiking in Northern VA, and some of our favorites are just a short drive away from The Inn at Vaucluse Spring. Buzzard Rock North in the George Washington National Forest offers a short and easy hike with some great payoff. You will receive some spectacular vistas from this high point of the Buzzard Rock cliffs. Amazing views of Fort Valley await, and then once you’ve soaked in the landscape, you can cool off with a dip in a pond along the trail!
Woodstock Tower
Another great nearby destination for hiking in Northern VA is Woodstock Tower, also in the George Washington National Forest. This easy 2-mile hike is suitable for most and features an extraordinary 360-degree panoramic view from the top of the tower. Views include the north fork of the Shenandoah River and a peak through Woodstock Gap to the Shenandoah National Park. There are two areas for parking, allowing you to go the long route or enjoy a very easy 10-minute walk from a higher altitude.
Big Schloss
Under an hour away from The Inn at Vaucluse Spring, you will discover the Big Schloss within the George Washington National Forest. The 4-mile hike here includes incredible, expansive views from the peak of the mountain. Moderate to expert hikers will enjoy this trail, which begins with a fairly steep and steady uphill stretch. Once you reach the ridge, the trail evens out, offering some forested trails that vary in steepness throughout the rest of the hike. Before you’re even a mile in, you will already catch the first overlook with a view that lasts for miles and miles. At the summit, you will find the best views and have some space to eat a snack before descending.
Sky Meadows State Park
Just west of Stephens City, across the river and through the woods, is the Sky Meadows State Park. This park features almost 2,000 acres on the east side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Within those 2,000 acres are 24 miles of trails along with a historic colonial 1860s farm. At this state park, you will discover nature and history programs among the many hiking trails. There are also opportunities for fishing, boating, and horseback riding!
Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area
There is much to see and do within the southward Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area as well. Hiking in Northern VA includes the Pig Iron and Charcoal Trails in this great recreational space. You can spend the day trout fishing, strolling across the swinging bridge, exploring a historic cabin, or investigating the many nearby trails.
More Beautiful Views Await at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring
A stay at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring will extend your beautiful views even further. Our gorgeous grounds feature lovely grassy slopes, a surrounding forest, a mill pond, and more incredible landscapes. Discover our lovely bed and breakfast when you visit the Shenandoah Valley!