The Blue Ridge Mountains provide an incredible backdrop to Northern Virginia. This majestic mountain range spans for thousands of miles towering above the clouds. Depending on the weather, the mountains can range from their typical blue color to a dark purple as if mimicking the night sky. As the seasons come and go, the trees blanketing the Blue Ridge Mountains change from vibrant shades of green to fiery reds and yellows. Although they are constantly changing, these famous Virginia mountains are great to visit any time of year. Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia attractions will show you the best of the mountains no matter when you visit.
If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Northern Virginia, our free Vacation Guide is a great resource. Vacation planning can be hard, so our free guide lists everything you need to know about the area like Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia attractions. It even tells you about seasonal and monthly events, so you’ll never miss anything while you stay at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring!
5 of the Best Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia Attractions
1. Drive Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching for 469 miles of pure, breathtaking beauty, the Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway begins just 20 minutes away from The Inn at Vaucluse Spring in Front Royal. This incredible scenic highway winds its way through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive itself is beautiful, but there are also some great stops along the way to see waterfalls, incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and unique geologic features. Let The Inn at Vaucluse Spring pack you a picnic to go, then drive along this breathtaking route until you find a good point to stop and take in the scenery.
2. Visit a Winery
Many vineyards in Northern Virginia are situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, but if you’re looking for true Blue Ridge Mountain views you should try Chester Gap Cellars or Fox Meadow Vineyards. Chester Gap Cellars gives incredible views at an elevation of 1,000 feet. Its open-air patio lets you breathe in the crisp mountain air as you taste some delectable handcrafted wines and will make you feel like you are on top of the world. Fox Meadow Vineyards is located at an elevation of 1,700 feet on the east slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, you actually get to look down at the tops of mountains!
3. See the Roanoke Star and Overlook
One of the best ways to see the Blue Ridge Mountains is to hike right through them. The Mill Mountain Star Trail will take you to the Roanoke Star and Overlook, one of Virginia’s most talked about and largest icons. From here, you will see the largest, free-standing, man-made, illuminated star in the world and an incredible scenic overlook. If you don’t feel like making the hike, you can drive and park in the lot next to the star!
4. Tour Luray Caverns
Out of all the Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia attractions, you won’t want to miss the Luray Caverns. Discover a different landscape when you embark into the Luray Caverns along the Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway. Cathedral-sized rooms with 10-story-high ceilings will take your breath away, while monstrous stone formations will enthrall and inspire.
5. Hike the Appalachian Trail at McAfee Knob
The McAfee Knob Trail is one of the most popular and largely photographed portions of the Appalachian Trail. This 8.8-mile hike provides panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains, and its signature ledge that has become a popular place for photos.
After You Visit Your Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia Attractions
After you have partaken in some Blue Ridge Mountains Virginia attractions, retreat back to The Inn at Vaucluse Spring. Continue your awe of these majestic mountains by staying in one of our comfortable rooms with a mountain view, like the Jones Room. Any guest is welcome to relax on the front porch of our Manor House with an early morning cup of coffee or late afternoon glass of wine as they take in the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley.