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
Tag: Staunton
The Caverns at Natural Bridge
As part of my "cave-a-palooza" quest to visit all of the cavern attractions within an hour's drive of Staunton, I recently took a pleasant tour of the Caverns at Natural Bridge in Rockbridge County. Since I have already notched Grand, Endless, Shenandoah and Luray caverns onto my belt, I was curious as to how these … Continue reading The Caverns at Natural Bridge
Walk Therapy
Another hidden jewel that offers a peaceful respite in close proximity to Staunton is the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center STAR Trail in Fishersville. The short, albeit wonderfully manicured trail on the center grounds, offer woodland and pond-side access for an easy jaunt- regardless of your physical ability. STAR stands for: Supporting Therapeutic Access to … Continue reading Walk Therapy
Natural Chimneys – Natural Wonder
Few places within a half hour's drive of Staunton could hold a candle to the unique beauty of Natural Chimneys Park and Campground. This Mt. Solon day park with an overnight camping option is a photographers' dream. From the inspiring limestone chimney rock formations to the crystal clear North River that runs along the cool … Continue reading Natural Chimneys – Natural Wonder
Lake Shenandoah
Tucked under the arm of one of Harrisonburg's tonier neighborhoods is a small outdoor experience called Lake Shenandoah, a 36-acre waterway run by the Department of Wildlife Resources. I'll admit, the 1.3 mile walk around this small jewel of a lake made me homesick for my former Connecticut home that abuts a similar small waterway … Continue reading Lake Shenandoah
Shenandoah Caverns: 100 years of colorful caving
On the outskirts of New Market lies yet another worthwhile cavern adventure in the form of Shenandoah Caverns. Although not as heavily marketed as nearby Luray Caverns, Shenandoah has its own unique charm that make the hour tour notable. Driving onto the property you are greeted with several incongruous, larger than life (Ok, cheesy) cartoonish … Continue reading Shenandoah Caverns: 100 years of colorful caving
Steinbeck in Staunton
Have you ever noticed when you're thinking about buying a certain model car, that's all you see on the road? There is a similar phenomenon going on now during this COVID-19 crisis. I often feel books I've read or movies I watch have some connection in theme to what we are going through as a … Continue reading Steinbeck in Staunton
A revival meeting
The oldest church in Staunton may arguably be one of the most awe-inspiring in the city. I'm talking about Trinity Episcopal Church, which sits gracefully on the edge of the downtown area offering a respite from the bustle (as if there were any) from the shops and restaurants anchoring my Virginia hometown. I'd been meaning … Continue reading A revival meeting
A Confederate victory
A few decades ago I started a collection of glassware called Amberina. It is pretty - yellow and orange colors melding into one pretty piece of glass - a pitcher, a sugar bowl or vase. When I was getting ready to move from Connecticut, I realized most of my Amberina collection was still in boxes, … Continue reading A Confederate victory
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
Stanton with a "u" 