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Here at Bear Creek we might be biased, but the Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the best activities around. With the George Washington National Forest and the Skyline Drive, visitors come from all around to visit. From amazing hikes to locally sourced foods, the Shenandoah Valley has something for everyone to enjoy. Our team has come together to compile a list of some of our personal favorites that we would love to share.
Sherando Lake, nestled in the heart of the George Washington National Forest, is a favorite spot for locals. Sherando Lake has a nice beach area designated for swimming, as well as boat launches for kayaks, and areas to fish. In addition to the lake, there are beautiful hiking loops and biking areas to explore the surrounding forest. Sherando is perfect for day trips with covered pavilions and day use sites with tables, grills, and campfire set ups. If you would like an extended stay there is a camping area with a variety of spots for both RVs and tent camping. Sherando has a little bit of something for anyone almost any time of the year. If you happen to find yourself in the area, it is a must see experience.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469 mile drive that follows along the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. Starting in here in Waynesboro and spanning all the way down to Cherokee, NC, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the best the Valley has to offer. In the ‘Ridge’ portion of the drive, you can find a multitude of hike access points, including access to the mid-section of the Appalachian Trail. Here in the Valley we believe the journey is the real destination, come take a ride for yourself, you never know what hidden treasures you might find.
Nestled in the base of the Afton Mountain, just on the outskirts of downtown Waynesboro, Blue Ridge Bucha is a local gem. Blue Ridge Bucha makes craft kombucha that is sold and distributed all over the valley. Their kombucha is made from 100% organic ingredients, blended perfectly to make a variety of bold and exciting flavors. Their company also strives to be as eco-friendly as possible. From product distribution in glass bottles to low waste production, Blue Ridge Bucha strives to leave as small of a footprint as possible. Next time you’re in town you’ll have to make sure to give this place a try.
Just a short drive away from the mountains you’ll find Historic Downtown Staunton. Downtown Staunton is budding with history, it’s the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson, home of the Blackfriar Theater, and the original Western State Mental Hospital. Not only is this the perfect place for history lovers to visit but there are multitudes of locally owned shops and restaurants you are sure to love. These beautifully brick-lined sidewalks and gorgeous architecture will draw you in as you explore the downtown area. Downtown Staunton has a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy, from toy stores to the Frontier Culture Museum. Once you come for a trip you’ll find you have a hard time staying away.
Here in the Shenandoah Valley you will find a multitude of dinning and brewery options. One of the best is right on the outskirts of town in an old, renovated Klann Organ Works building in what once was Basic City, Virginia. Now apart of Waynesboro, Basic City Beer Co. revamped some of the old culture of the town and has made it a local hotspot. Along with making wonderful craft beers and sodas, Basic City provides a collaborative environment for people of any age to enjoy. Even more recently, Basic City has added a full kitchen with a wonderful menu with a great selection of food. Their indoor and outdoor areas are filled with games and activities for everyone to enjoy making this is the perfect space for gathering with friends or a family outing. Basic City Beer Co. is one of the places that makes Waynesboro great and a draw for many town visitors.
In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the Luray Caverns is the largest natural caverns on the East Coast. These natural caverns were discovered in the later 1800s and have been a popular attraction ever since. Here you will see the wonders of nature and explore the caverns with illusion like views. Along with tours of the caverns, there are also several other attractions and museums on site to connect you to the history of the valley. The Luray Caverns are a rare and beautiful adventure that draw visitors from far and wide.
Here we have shown only a sliver of the great activities and places that the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. In a land overflowing with history and culture, the Shenandoah Valley is truly one of a kind. From premier mountain ranges to historical treasures to top of the line experiences, we are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful valleys on the East Coast.