19 Most Scenic Views in Virginia
Virginia has some of the most scenic views with the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains. These mountains only scratch the surface of mountain ranges in this stunning state.
The most popular time of the year to explore and take in Virginia’s scenic views is during the fall when the colorful trees transform the landscape.
Whether you take a trip to Virginia in the fall or the spring, there is no denying that the diverse landscapes are one of a kind and are the reason so many visitors travel to this beautiful state.
While soaking the views, don’t forget to stop by some of the famous sites along the way.
Here are the best scenic views to hike and drive in Virginia that you cannot miss!
Best Hiking and Driving Spots
1. McAfee Knob, Virginia
Length: 8.2 miles
Difficulty: Medium
Located on Catawba Mountain, this famous mountain cliff view is beautiful all year round.
If you’re going to hike on the Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob is one of the best spots that feel like you’re on top of the world.
Since this hiking trail is a steady climb with a challenging path, it is not ideal for beginner hikers.
This scenic spot was named after James McAfee who was a Scottish-Irish immigrant who came to the Catawba Valley in the 1700s. It is also the tallest mountain in the area at a whopping 3,200 feet.
2. Dragon’s Tooth, Virginia
A couple of miles away from McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth is another hiking area with surreal views of the mountains but one that will break a sweat.
The 4.6-mile trail is quite difficult with a steep path to the rock spire.
Despite the challenging trail, it is dog-friendly and bike-friendly. The most difficult part of the trail is the rock scramble, but it is well worth the trek!
Location: Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Catawba, VA
3. Pine Tree Overlook
Offering a great view of Goose Creek Valley, Pine Tree Overlook is a beautiful place to explore on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parking is limited, so make sure to arrive early or go during the weekday.
This overlook is also a popular place to watch the sunrise and is only a 15-minute drive from the Peaks of Otter.
The nearest hiking trail is the Williams Field Park Loop in Mariners Museum Park which is ideal for people who have hiking experience.
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Montvale, VA
4. Cahas Knob Overlook
A scenic spot in Callaway, Virginia, the Cahas Knob Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway sits at an elevation of 3,013 feet.
You can stop here to soak in the views or explore the mountain via hiking or cycling.
The most fascinating part of Cahas Mountain besides the gorgeous views in the fall is the history.
Just at the base of the mountain, there is a rural historic district that once served as a migration route. If you’re nearby, make sure to stop at the Chaos Mountain Brewing Company.
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Callaway, VA
5. Ravens Roost Overlook
Close to breweries and wineries, the Ravens Roost Overlook is a great place to have a picnic but keep in mind there are no public bathrooms.
There are also two trails if you want to see even better views of the valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you have experience in climbing, this overlook might be the best spot!
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Lyndhurst, VA
6. The Great Valley Overlook
Offering 180 views of the valley and the mountains, the Great Valley Overlook is a beautiful place to spend the afternoon.
It is also kid-friendly with rustic trails and picnic areas.
This is one of the places to go if you prefer relaxation with the sounds of nature. The elevation is around 2,493 feet and was once a path for the Native Americans and pioneers.
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Blue Ridge, VA
7. Strickler Knob
Length: 5.4 miles
Difficulty: Medium
Near Mount Jackson, Virginia, the Strickler Knob is an underrated trail but provides all of the challenging components for an experienced hiker with steep terrain and rock scrambling.
This 5.4-mile hike may be difficult at first, but the stunning panoramic view is well worth it.
You can also camp close by for the breathtaking sunsets or bird watch.
8. WhiteOak Canyon Falls
Length: 2.6 miles to the waterfall
Difficulty: Medium
Although mountains in Virginia offer views that can’t be found anywhere else, there are a few waterfalls that make the challenging hikes worth it with the water rolling off the rocks, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
There are two trails for the WaterOak Canyon Falls, the upper trail and the lower trail if you do them separately.
But if you’re up for the ultimate adventure, try hiking from the lower to the upper.
This hiking trail is quite popular and provides a glimpse into the natural beauty of the valley.
Upper Trail: WhiteOak Canyon Trail, Luray, VA
Lower Trail: 187 Chad Berry Ln, Syria, VA
9. Dark Hollow Falls
Length: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Medium
In Shenandoah National Park, the Dark Hollow Falls trail is also a challenging hike for beginners, especially climbing back up.
But the cascading waterfall is truly a sight with the various pools.
Do keep in mind that this trail tends to get crowded on sunny days, so make sure to go early.
Also, check the weather from the previous day so you don’t show up and the trail is muddy.
10. Humpback Rock
Length: 1.0 miles but 4.2 miles if you take the Appalachian Trail
Difficulty: Medium
Probably one of the most famous hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Humpback Rock is a less strenuous hike but provides a cliffside view overlooking the valley.
The name comes from the massive rocks known as greenstone sticking out of Humpback Mountain.
Despite the hike being on the shorter side, it is still a great idea to wear good hiking shoes with an elevation of 3,080 feet.
11. Sharp Top Mountain Trailhead
Length: 2.9 miles
Difficulty: Medium
A popular hiking area in Bedford County, this short hike offers impressive views of the mountains and boulders for people to climb on.
The downside to this trail is that it becomes super crowded on nice days.
While the Sharp Top trail is good for beginners, it is ideal for hikers who have experience as there is a steep and rocky path up to the overlook.
This trail also has quite a bit of poison ivy and oak along the trail, so be wary.
Location: Sheep Creek Rd, Bedford, VA
12. High Bridge Trail
Difficulty: Easy
A 31-mile state park in Green Bay, this trail is great for horseback riding, hiking, and cycling. The main part of the trail is the High Bridge, which is the longest recreational bridge in Virginia with scenic views.
This path once served as an escape route for Robert E. Lee and his men during the Civil War.
To access the High Bridge, park at the east or the west side of the bridge.
Location for East Side of Bridge: 1466 Camp Paradise Rd, Rice, Virginia
Location for West Side: River Road, Farmville, Virginia
13. Thornton Gap to Swift Run Gap
Difficulty: Medium
On Skyline Drive, this point-to-point trail provides a beautiful walk through the forest.
If you decide to just hike the Thornton Gap, the moderate hike can be difficult for hikers who are just starting out, but the endless views of the mountain make this wind gap an underrated gem.
Depending on what point you stop at during your adventure will allow you to see many overlooks.
For the Swift Run Gap, you can walk north or south and stop by the stunning waterfalls on the way.
14. Rockfish Gap
Rockfish Gap is an overlook that most people in the valley are familiar with as it doesn’t take much effort to find it after driving past Swannanoa.
Although it doesn’t grant otherworldly views, the panoramic views of the mountains and the valley continues to draw in nature lovers and photographers.
Take in the beautiful sunsets as you explore the southern entrance of the Shenandoah National Park!
Just like many areas in the Shenandoah Valley, Rockfish Gap held great importance in the Civil War.
The Railroad tunnel under Rockfish Gap was used by Stonewall Jackson and his infantry troops back in 1862.
15. Colonial Parkway
The historic triangle filled with immense history, Colonial Parkway encompasses Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown which provides engrossing activities to stop at along the way.
This 23-mile scenic parkway is best viewed by driving or riding a bike.
To come across major historic sites like the Yorktown Battlefield and Jamestown Island, there is an entrance fee for recreation.
16. The Crooked Road – Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail
To experience Crooked Road to the fullest, it is best to drive as the full trail length is 330 miles.
As you drive through this scenic pathway in Southwest Virginia, there are a number of music venues to stop at and enjoy the rich tapestry of music drawing back to old traditions.
After exploring the Blue Ridge Music Center or the Carter Family Fold, spend time outside indulging in one of the nature activities like fishing.
Address: One Heartwood Circle Abingdon, VA
17. Journey Through Hallowed Ground
One of the most important trails in the United States, Journey Through Hallowed Ground is ‘Where America Happened.” The 180-mile trail stretches from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and Monticello in Charlottesville.
Along the way, visitors can expect to come across charming towns and historical landmarks.
There is also the opportunity to enjoy the countryside with rivers, farms, and orchards.
18. Virginia Coal Heritage Trail
This southwestern Virginia trail is quite underrated but has over 300 miles of scenic byways with coal mining towns.
Similar to the trail that spread through Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and Charlottesville, Virginia Coal Heritage has plenty of attractions from museums to working mines.
You can also learn more about the history of Virginia and its coal production by walking and riding a bike through the park and loop trail in Blacksburg while soaking in the scenic views.
Did you know that the Buchanan Mine is the biggest coal producer in Virginia?
Address: 751 Merrimac Rd, Blacksburg, VA
19. The Great Falls
A small national park just 20 miles from Washington DC, The Great Falls offers one of the best scenic drives and views in Northern Virginia.
With the trees lining the road during autumn, it’s not hard to see why this place draws in so many people.
This curvy road is the first scenic byway in the state with The Great Falls Park boasting a beautiful waterfall, cliffside hiking trails, and the remains of the Patowmack Canal.
Do keep in mind that swimming is not allowed here but picnic to your heart’s content.
Address of park: 9200 Old Dominion Dr, Mclean, VA
Scenic Views in Virginia
As you’re narrowing down the byways and hiking trails to add to your Virginia itinerary, remember to check if there is an entrance fee and if the area is open.
Some of the trails are only open at certain times of the year.
It is important that you keep every trail and park clean for animals and other visitors.
Don’t leave your trash behind.
For more adventures in Virginia with scenic views, visit the articles below: