Rockin’ and a Rootin’ – St. Mary’s Falls

Our intrepid guide (everyone needs one) described our latest venture into the Staunton-area hiking world, with two simple adjectives: “rocky and rooty.” He did not lie. But that does not diminish the enjoyable nature of hiking the 4.5 mile round trip to St. Mary’s Falls near Raphine in Augusta County. Our guide, who has completed … Continue reading Rockin’ and a Rootin’ – St. Mary’s Falls →

Explore Maple Flats Ponds

A mere 25 miles outside Staunton in the George Washington National Forest lies an unassuming natural habitat with ponds, vernal pools and comfortable walking trails. Maple Flats Ponds near Lyndhurst offers hikers views of sinkhole pond ecology and is home to a variety of frogs, salamanders, beavers, and other aquatic-loving critters. Driving into Coal Road … Continue reading Explore Maple Flats Ponds →

Pack Yer’ Flashlight!

If you find yourself near Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, make time to walk the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel. With entrances in Waynesboro from the West and Afton in the East, this spectacular monument to the hard work and chutzpah of Irish immigrants who constructed it in the 1850's, is the longest … Continue reading Pack Yer’ Flashlight! →

Taking on the Locher Tract

A mere stones' throw (with a vigorous arm) from the better known Natural Bridge is a hidden gem for light hiking called the Locher Tract. With more than 370 acres, this accessible spot along the James River in the town of Glasgow, offers three shortish trails in a quiet area that abounds with local wildlife … Continue reading Taking on the Locher Tract →

Natural wonder

More than 200 years ago for literally pennies on the dollar, young Thomas Jefferson purchased a 157-acre tract of land that is now one of the most awe-inspiring state parks in Virginia. I'm talking about Natural Bridge State Park, a gorgeous tract that's a 45-minute drive from Staunton and so well worth the trip. The … Continue reading Natural wonder →

Pajama princess of Sherando Lake

The Upper Lake is 7 acres and is fed by the waters of the North Fork of Back Creek. The Lower Lake is 25 acres and is fed by springs, the North Fork of Back Creek, and Williams Branch, so the water stays refreshingly cool all summer long.