Hiking is one of the more popular activities at Virginia State Parks. It's low-impact and inexpensive, gets the blood circulating and the muscles moving and strengthens the body, soul and mind. In three words, it's "good for you."

Fortunately, we have many trails to hike, bike, and walk across the state, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Cumberland Gap. Here are five favorite trails that just about everyone can hike.

1. CEDAR CREEK TRAIL - NATURAL BRIDGE STATE PARK 

Take a leisurely hike as far as you like down Cedar Creek Trail at Natural Bridge State Park.

The beauty of this trail at Natural Bridge State Park is that it is super scenic as you walk under the majestic arch and can follow the creek along the accessible path into the woods. There are footpath bridges to cross, rushing rocky waters to the Lost River, and a special treat at the end, Lace Falls. Hike part or all of this tremendous 0.80-mile trail.

Learn more about the trails at Natural Bridge State Park here.

 

2. TOBACCO RUN TRAIL- SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE STATE PARK

A canopy of pine trees leads you along the water's edge at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

Tobacco Run Trail is a soft 0.5-mile path laden with pine needles that leads around the water at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Parking is nearby at the Discover Center. This lovely hike connects with longer hikes, like Beaver Den Trail 0.4 miles or Chestnut Ridge Trail 1.7 miles, if you are up for it.

Learn more about the trails at Smith Mountain Lake State Park here.

 

3. POTOMAC TRAIL - LEESYLVANIA STATE PARK

Capturing a sunrise at Leesylvania State Park is guaranteed to be the highlight of your visit.

Leesylvania State Park's Potomac Trail is a 0.41-mile hike that brings you around the beach, picnic area, fishing pier, and an accessible trail. This park is known for its stunning sunrises. If you hike this trail early, you will be one of the privileged early birds to catch this worm. This hike will feed your soul.

Learn more about the trails at Leesylvania State Park here.

 

4.  RIVER BANK TRAIL - STAUNTON RIVER STATE PARK

Staunton River State Park's River Bank Trail offers a scenic view of the confluence of the Dan and Staunton rivers.

You have a few options for easy trails at this park, some that lead you along the water at Staunton River State Park. One is the River Bank Trail, which is 7.6 miles in total. But the good news is that you can jump on this trail and have it deliver you after a short walk to a point with an overlook of Buggs Island Lake. It is where the Staunton River and the Dan River merge. Sunsets are breathtaking from this scenic spot.

Learn more about the trails at Staunton River State Park here.

 

5. YCC TRAIL - DOUTHAT STATE PARK

Stroll along the YCC Trail with ease and enjoy the natural scenery of Douthat State Park.

At Douthat State Park, you will find the YCC Trail, an easy 0.73-mile stroll under the trees and along the Southern side of the lake. You can pause along the way to stop and breathe in the fresh mountain air and ponder nature. Continue on the trail past the fishing pier, and you can walk around the spillway to a picnic area and playground.

Learn more about the trails at Douthat State Park here.

 

BONUS: LAKE TRAIL LOOP - HUNGRY MOTHER STATE PARK

Pick a section to hike on the partially accessible Lake Trail Loop at Hungry Mother State Park.

The partially accessible Lake Trail Loop is a long hike at 5.7 miles, but you can choose which section you want to hike. Options for accessing it from the swimming beach area, Camp Burson campground or even the CCC Cabin Road make it a great trail.

Learn more about the trails at Hungry Mother State Park here.

OVERNIGHT

Four of the above parks offer overnight accommodations in cabins and lodges, as well as campgrounds. To learn more about cabins and camping, call 800-933-7275 during business hours Monday through Friday.

 

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