Blue Ridge Outdoors Near Afton
Rockfish Valley
Trails and Overlooks Close to Home
On Foot
Hikes and Trails
Blue Ridge Tunnel East Trailhead
The gentler approach starts at 215 Afton Depot Lane and runs about 0.6 mile to the east portal of this historic rail tunnel.
Rockfish Valley Trails and Spruce Creek Park
Easy valley walks in Nellysford through meadows and along the river, with sections that connect for a longer outing.
Humpback Rocks Trailhead
A short, steep climb off the Blue Ridge Parkway to a rocky overlook, with a historic farm area nearby for a gentler visit.
Shenandoah National Park Rockfish Gap Entrance
The south end of Skyline Drive, with overlooks and picnic stops close to the hiking trails.
Crabtree Falls
A strenuous waterfall hike near Montebello with a series of overlooks along the way.
Fortune's Cove Nature Preserve
A woodland loop near Lovingston with steep climbs and rocky overlooks for experienced hikers.
Off the Trail
Scenic Drives and Water Days
Nelson County
Blue Ridge Parkway and Nelson Scenic Loop
A roughly 50-mile loop that leaves Route 151 and climbs to the Parkway for mountain views.
Lyndhurst
Sherando Lake Recreation Area
A mountain lake with a sandy beach and picnic areas, plus paddling and hiking.
Scottsville
James River Runners
A farther-out day on the James River, with tubing and kayaking trips run by an outfitter.
Trail Notes
Planning a Day in the Blue Ridge
Bring a Headlamp
The Blue Ridge Tunnel is cool and damp inside, so pack a headlamp and a warm layer.
Wear Shoes With Grip
Wet rock is common in the tunnel and around Crabtree Falls, where the overlooks have barriers to stay behind.
Know the Parkway Status
Mountain sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway can close for weather or roadwork. The National Park Service map shows current closures.
Plan for Entry Fees
Shenandoah National Park and Sherando Lake both charge entry fees, and Sherando opens seasonally.
Use the Trail Map
The Rockfish Valley trail map shows how to string short sections into a longer walk.
Book River Trips Ahead
James River Runners takes bookings for tubing and paddling trips and sets age requirements for younger guests.
Book Direct