The mountains in Virginia offer some of the most beautiful views in the country. In addition, the Appalachian Trail, one of the world’s most popular trails, spans 544 miles across Virginia. It’s a mountaineer’s dream to be able to go on a hike and see breathtaking surroundings. It might be just what it takes to convince one to leave the city life and choose to live in the mountains. To show you just how rich this part of the country is, here are the 5 most beautiful Virginia mountains. Pack your trekking gear and prepare for an incredible mountaineering adventure.
Mount Rogers
We chose this mountain to be the first on our list for a good reason. It is the highest point in the state of Virginia, standing at 5729 feet above sea level. It is named after the first state geologist of Virginia and founder of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, William Barton Rogers. Aside from the beautiful views of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this mountain features around 500 miles of hiking trails to explore. In addition, the flora and wildlife you can find here are an attraction all by themselves. You can see wild berries, mushrooms, moss, and rhododendron, as well as feral ponies that wander the region. Hiking, biking, paddling, horseback riding, camping, fishing, swimming, and picnics are all available in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. It was founded to preserve the natural landscape, and it covers 200.000 acres.
Buffalo Mountain
The mountain got its name from its appearance, and its pinnacle reaches 3971 feet tall. It is home to the Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve, a valuable part of Virginia’s natural history. This region is located on a plateau roughly 1000 feet above the surrounding area and is home to unique flora and fauna. For example, it is the only place in the world where you can meet the mealybug known as the Puto kosztarabi. Some of the rare plants that can be found on Buffalo Mountain are the bog bluegrass and large-leaved grass-of-Parnassus. You can observe some of the preserved plants and animals by walking on a moderate-difficulty hiking trail. Just make sure to stay on the marked trails to protect the rarities of nature in the preserve. Buffalo Mountain deserves its place among the 5 most beautiful mountains in Virginia.
Blue Ridge Mountains
These mountains are home to some of the most iconic landscapes and a portion of the Appalachian Trail. They spread from South Carolina and Georgia through eight states, ending in Pennsylvania. Even so, Virginia and North Carolina claim the most Blue Ridge Mountains’ summits, outnumbering the other states. What makes these mountains unique is that the crests and crowns have various shades of blue. It is a natural wonder that scientists have tried to explain for centuries. Whatever the cause of this phenomenon is, what we know for sure is that these mountains are magical. If you haven’t already, you will fall in love with the Blue Ridge Mountains once you start exploring them.
Old Rag Mountain
Another one of the 5 most beautiful Virginia Mountains is the Old Rag Mountains, located in the Northern part of the state. This beautiful 3,268-foot-tall mountain can be found in the Shenandoah National Park. The park spreads on 200.000 acres of land and is a renowned hiking attraction. It’s no surprise, given that it’s only two hours from Washington, D.C. The Old Rag Mountains offer both novice trails and some of the most dangerous hikes in Shenandoah National Park. As a result, pack essential equipment, and stick to the marked trails to ensure a safe hiking experience.
If you are a beginner, the shortest way to the top is around 3 miles long. If you feel more adventurous and you have some experience, you can take the 9-mile long route. When you reach the summit, you will see some of the most spectacular views in the region, and they might just make you think about planning your next relocation within Northern Virginia to be closer to this view. Hire the best local movers for a quick and easy relocation and begin hiking on the scenic trails.
Salt Pond Mountain
This 4054-foot-tall mountain can be found near the border of Virginia and West Virginia. It is part of the Mountain Lake Wilderness Area and hosts a large variety of ecosystems. Salt Pond mountain got named after Salt Pond, which is known today as Mountain Lake. The Appalachian Trail, which runs directly through the mountain, draws a large number of visitors. In the summer, you can see many hikers use the trail to reach the summit. In the winter, the Salt Pond mountain is a popular skiing destination. If you climb to the top, you will get a spectacular view of Potts Mountain and the Johns Creek valley. Along the trail, you will be able to wander through red spruce and yellow birch forests. That is because the vegetation is more particular to the northern highlands.
The Virginia mountains might change your life forever
There is so much beauty to see in the Virginia mountains that you will be amazed. Aside from the breathtaking views from the highest peaks, you can discover some treasures of nature. For example, rare and protected flora and fauna can only be seen in this part of the world. It’s heaven for people who love nature and care about its conservation. Also, for those who enjoy being active, the Virginia mountains are a great place to visit. Hiking, camping, rock climbing, and swimming are just a few of the accessible outdoor activities. You can find a bit of everything for everyone here. Even affordable mountain towns that are just inviting you to move in.
In conclusion
If you love nature and mountaineering, you have to visit the 5 most beautiful Virginia mountains. You will have plenty of trails to go on and great rewards once you reach the summits. They are also ideal for a family trip where everyone can spend quality time together. Pack your bags now and choose your first destination.