Add these six less-traveled trails to your weekday plans for a peaceful outdoor adventure at Virginia State Parks.

Located just 2 miles off Interstate 81, Natural Bridge State Park draws visitors from near and far. While the iconic limestone bridge and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions, the visitor center is an essential part of the park experience.

Virginia is home to five International Dark Sky Parks, four of which are state parks. They earned their designations from DarkSky International for their exceptional quality of starry nights. However, light pollution is a growing concern.

DCR's law enforcement rangers go beyond traditional policing; they serve to protect people and Virginia's natural and cultural resources. Among these professional are women breaking barriers in a historically male-dominated field.

While many visitors come to Natural Bridge State Park to see the bridge for themselves, they quickly learn that this 1,635-acre park has much more to offer, from Dark-Sky programs to hikes with stunning mountain views.

In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the challenge of finding the perfect gifts for friends and loved ones. If you want to avoid crowded malls and generic presents, consider a trip to one of Virginia's state parks.

Whether you want to see colorful lights on a bridge or a tunnel, from the comfort of your car or in a cozy museum, we have spectacular events for you to enjoy holiday lights and decor at Virginia State Parks.

Halloween brings a variety of events to state parks across Virginia. From trunk-or-treats to scavenger hunts, there's something for everyone at a state park this spooky season.

When you think of Natural Bridge State Park, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the 200-foot-tall Natural Bridge. This iconic Virginia landmark is truly awe-inspiring, but if you haven't explored the rest of the park, you're missing out.