My Favorite Day Trips: From a VA Native
By Sidney White
As a Virginia native, I wanted to share some favorite places I like to go on the weekend or when I have some free time. Check it out and let me know your thoughts!
The first location on this list has to be Panther Falls. This place is a fan favorite and if you haven’t been, you’re missing out! Panther Falls is located near Blue Ridge Parkway about 30 minutes from campus. The majority of the drive is a gravel road in really bad shape so I wouldn’t recommend taking a nicer car. There is a short hike from the parking lot to the actual swimming hole. These falls are packed with students and locals jumping from the 10-foot falls on summer days.
If you love hiking and want to try a new trail an hour from BV, my go-to is Humpback Rocks in Lyndhurst, Virginia. This trail is a 4.2 mile loop that leads to a breathtaking overlook. No matter the weather, this trail is excellent, and the view from the overlook makes the hike well worthwhile! I’ve hiked this trail many times and I would recommend bringing a snack or something to eat at the top of the mountain to refuel for the way down.
If hiking isn’t your thing but you still love great views and want to spend some time outside enjoying the warm weather coming our way, I would recommend Maymont Park in Richmond, Virginia. As a resident of Richmond, this spot holds a special place in my heart. I used to visit this park regularly regardless of the weather because it is beautiful any time of the year. Maymont Park’s attractions feature extensive gardens showcasing a variety of plants from across the globe, along with a spacious barn inhabited by farm animals you can feed treats from the onsite feed machine. The Maymont estate also encompasses many wildlife habitats, hosting animals ranging from red foxes to bison. (Two hours from BV)
Speaking of animals, the Virginia Safari park is less than 30 minutes away from campus. This is something you can do if you have a higher budget. At the safari park, you can drive through the property on the trail to see and feed animals up close from your vehicle. There’s nothing like an ostrich or a bull reaching its head through your window trying to get to some food! After going through the drive through, there’s a Village Walk-Thru where you can be eye level with giraffes and see some Bengal tigers playing around in their yard. There is also a petting area filled with farmyard favorites and even a Budgie Aviary filled with so many parakeets that are free to fly around and sometimes will even land on your hand!
No matter where you go, always pack extra water to stay hydrated. Bring snacks or even some lunch if you want to stay within a budget!
