Now that the weather is warming up, the flowers are pushing upwards, and the trees are finding their leaves once again, lace up your hiking boots and fill your water bottles– a springtime hike would be an endorphin-boosting addition to your upcoming visit to the Foxfield Inn. Whether you’re up for a physical challenge, or just want to enjoy a casual stroll, we’ve pulled together a list of some of the most popular hikes in our area for your consideration.
Ivy Creek Natural Area (Source) |
Ivy Creek Natural Area
Difficulty – 1 (relaxing)
Length of hike – 0.5 – 6 miles
Drive to get there – 10 minutes
Choose from any of Ivy Creek Natural Area’s informative trails to learn about the natural history of Central Virginia. This is a great place to slow down, observe wildlife, and examples of several typical Virginia ecosystems.
Mint Springs Valley Park (Source) |
Mint Springs Valley Park
Difficulty – 2 (easy-medium)
Length of hike – 0.5 – 2+ miles
Drive to get there – 20 minutes
Nestled in the heart of Crozet, Mint Springs Valley Park offers a range of wooded trails that circle a lake or climb a mountain – the choice is yours. In the summertime, cool off at the man-made beach with natural surroundings.
Crabtree Falls (Source) |
Crabtree Falls
Difficulty – 3 (moderate)
Length of hike – 4.4 miles
Drive to get there – 1 hour 20 minutes (south of Charlottesville)
Boasting the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi, it’s no wonder Crabtree Falls is a popular hike. Bring a Picnic Lunch prepared by us to enjoy once you get to the top, and make sure to bring your camera!
Humpback Rocks summit (Source) |
Humpback Rocks
Difficulty – 4 (strenuous)
Length of hike – 1 – 4 miles (most people do the 1-mile trail)
Drive to get there – 40 minutes
Named for the humpback-shape they give to the mountain, climbing to these rocks is a popular climb. Don’t be deterred by the quick ascent – the view at the top is well worth the effort. If it’s a beautiful day, head out early to avoid the crowds.
Old Rag (Source) |
Old Rag
Difficulty – 5 (challenging)
Length of hike – 8 miles
Drive to get there – 1 hour 15 minutes (north of Charlottesville)
If you’re ready for a challenge, you can’t miss this hike in the heart of the Shenandoah National Park. The ascent is generally gradual, and the rock scramble at the top provides excitement (but if you’d like to avoid it, you can take the fire trail to the summit). Fantastic views at multiple places in the hike. Pack a lunch and get an early start.
These are but a few of the incredibly numerous outdoor adventures awaiting you in Charlottesville. Let us know how we at the Foxfield Inn can help you find your perfect hike and make the most of your stay.