10 Things to do Good for Adrenaline Seekers in Virginia That You Shouldn't Miss

February 25, 2022 Jacquiline Delozier

Virginia can make American history come alive. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, tour Civil War battlefields, explore the living history museum at Williamsburg… the possibilities are endless (if the kids object, break up the historical sightseeing with a visit to Busch Gardens). Arlington, site of Arlington National Cemetery, is just across the Potomac River from all the major sites in D.C. In addition to beaches and historical attractions, Virginia has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Active families will love the Blue Ridge Highlands, where hiking, canoeing and tubing are just a few of the activities offered. Couples might enjoy a romantic mountain cabin in Virginia after a day of hiking in Shenandoah National Park.
Restaurants in Virginia

1. Patriot Tours & Provisions

Excellent
95%
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4%
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5.0 based on 590 reviews

Patriot Tours & Provisions

Offering 1-hour and 2-hour guided Segway tours in historic Yorktown daily! Bike rentals and kayak & paddle board rentals are available in Yorktown for a self-guided experience. We offer a great selection of kites, flags, and fun beach toys in our souvenir and gift shop! Stop in and sign up, call, or book online.

2. George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Edinburgh Gap Rd, Millboro, VA 24460 +1 540-265-5100 http://www.fs.usda.gov/gwj/
Excellent
80%
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5.0 based on 35 reviews

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Founded in 1917, this forest is the site of many recreational activities, including hiking, biking and fishing.

Reviewed By only1kirk - Salisbury, United States

We came here to go off roading and enjoy nature and we were not dissapointed. We did however have a rough time trying to find the trail head and the pass to be on the trail as we could not find a visitors center. We bought our pass at a gas station nearby and some old timers told us where to go. It was 11 miles of gravel light rocks hills and valleys. Only some spots were technical for a near stock jeep. It was alot of fun and took about 3 hours.

3. Virginia Creeper Trail

Abingdon, VA +1 276-676-2282 http://www.vacreepertrail.org/
Excellent
90%
Good
8%
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5.0 based on 1,086 reviews

Virginia Creeper Trail

A bike trail challenging to both beginners and experts.

Reviewed By knightma - Lancaster, United States

Some friends had told us about the trail a couple of years ago. We had a great time, rented a bike and shuttle service to the top of the trail. The part from White Top down to Damascus is pretty much all down hill and is pretty easy, even if you haven’t ridden in a while. There are several places to stop along the way and the scenery is great.

4. Grayson Highlands State Park

829 Grayson Highland Ln, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363-3581 +1 276-579-7092 http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands
Excellent
88%
Good
10%
Satisfactory
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5.0 based on 315 reviews

Grayson Highlands State Park

Reviewed By WeTravel12050 - Wallace, United States

Saw the wild horses and hiked the trails....one of a kind experiences in life. We were in site 22 plenty of room for our 28 ft. gray wolf. Hike to Little Pinnacle (behind visitors center) to see a great view! Hike into the gate at Massey Gap parking field and follow the trail that is where we saw the horses....also a water fall at Cabin Creek trail....take your time and enjoy the views...

5. Old Rag Mountain Hike

Shenandoah National Park, VA (540) 999-3500 https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/old-rag-hike-prep.htm
Excellent
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5.0 based on 366 reviews

Old Rag Mountain Hike

Reviewed By 352remil - Virginia, United States

Just got back from hiking this bad boy and would recommend it. I always wondered if it would be as hard as people say. While I wouldn't say only certain people should do it...you gotta be prepared for what you are getting into. Today being election Tuesday I figured there wouldn't be too many issues with overcrowding. I arrived at 10:30 am and the two main lots were full. I was one of the first cars in the 3rd overflow but while I was gathering my gear at least 10 more cars full of people arrived. There are portopotty's in the lower overflow lot but actual restrooms in the main parking area. While the ranger station at the lower overflow lot is closed be prepared to bring your wallet/pass with you because the ranger station is open in the main lot at the head of the trail. I did not read the signs that warn of this in the lower overflow lot so unfortunately had to return to my car adding another mile to the overall hike. People say plan the day to do the hike and they are right. I set out from the ranger station at 11 am and was done by 4:30 pm but the sun was disappearing rapidly and I speed walked the last several miles once getting to the Weakley Hollow Fire Road. I also didn't spend a ton of time at the overlooks nor the summit. So what is there to be cautious about? The rocks...oohh the rocks. Slippery when wet is not just a Bon Jovi album. If you've done any research you know about the rock scramble but the rocks along the way are not to be taken lightly either. I was behind a family and watched the father slip on a small rock. He went down hard about 2 miles into the trail hitting his head on some other larger rocks. The family decided to turn back at that time. The boulders are what everyone comes for though. When I bought my trail ticket ($15) the ranger warned of the mile long rock scramble at the top but I truly didn't appreciate what she meant until I got there. Once off the beaten path, it took a minute to orient on how to navigate the trail but once I figured out to look for the blue blazes, it made it slightly easier. I was able to traverse most of the scramble alone but did have to bite the bullet and ask for a hand in a some places mainly because the scramble forced an awkward body position making leverage impossible. Even though it was 61 degrees and a sunny day there was ice in several spots once leaving the tree line and there was some strong winds. Once slipping into an icy puddle, getting a grip on the boulders with the wet shoe was nigh impossible. That's why people recommend good hiking shoes with grip. Going down from the summit using the Saddle Trail to the Fire Road was a nice respite after all the bouldering. Be prepared for 5 more hiking miles after you summit if you do this route. Weakely Hollow Fire Road was well marked after getting off the saddle trail. There's now a new Ridge access trail back to the parking area but the sucker is mostly uphill and feels like torture at the end of a long day of traversing Old Rag.

6. Rocking S Ranch

564 Glaize Orchard Rd, Winchester, VA 22603-2408 +1 540-678-8501 http://www.therockingsranch.com
Excellent
98%
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5.0 based on 386 reviews

Rocking S Ranch

Reviewed By anna7753TK

Had an amazing ride with Mr. Bill, he is extremely friendly and a great guide. The trail was beautiful and the horses were very calm and enjoyable to ride. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun getaway, day activity, etc.

7. Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle

Excellent
99%
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5.0 based on 709 reviews

Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle

Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle is a school that teaches Stand Up Paddle. In business since 2011, we strive to spread aloha and have fun while teaching the way cool sport of SUP. We start out in nice calm flat water teaching intro to paddle..then graduate up to ocean and or yoga paddles....RI'SUP the place to start and continue your paddle journey!!

8. WILD GUYde Adventures

Excellent
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5.0 based on 100 reviews

WILD GUYde Adventures

Since 2004, WILD GUYde Adventures has been providing outdoor adventure guiding (rock climbing and rappelling, wild caving, and canoeing) in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia's Blue Ridge, and the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia. We serve individuals and families, scout troops, camps, and youth groups with recreational, instructional, and leadership development outdoor experiences. In addition, our Adventure, Leadership, and Learning INstitute (ALL IN) provides team-building, leadership learning, and action consulting for groups, corporations, and non-profits, on-site, or in the wilds of Virginia and West Virginia. WILD GUYde Adventures has commercial use permits with Shenandoah Ntl. Park, George Washington Ntl. Forest, and Monongahela Ntl. Forest, and is an equal opportunity provider. WGA is a member of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce, the Shenandoah Valley Travel Association, the Access Fund, and the Christian Adventure Association.

9. Buffalo Mountain Ziplines

3253 Black Ridge Rd SW, Floyd, VA 24091-4034 +1 540-200-5234 [email protected] http://www.buffalomountainziplines.com
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5.0 based on 137 reviews

Buffalo Mountain Ziplines

Come experience the thrill of flying from treetop to treetop at the home of Virginia's highest and longest ziplines! Buffalo Mountain Ziplines offers up to 8 cables taking you as high as 150' above the forest floor and spanning distances of over 2000' (in one cable). We welcome ages 3 and up! Great for the whole family. Located one mile off of the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 171.5.

Reviewed By smajero - Pasadena, United States

Mallory and Sean were the best part of the trip - they made us feel comfortable and then created a totally fun experience. I even found a selfie of Mallory on my phone - very funny! It was one of the best times We've had in a very long time and it was all because of the way Sean and Mallory took care of us.

10. Water Country USA

176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185-5828 +1 757-229-4386 http://watercountryusa.com/
Excellent
57%
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4.5 based on 2,457 reviews

Water Country USA

Keeping cool during a summer packed with thrills is easy at Water Country USA®. Virginia's largest water park offers fun for the entire family with resort-style amenities and more than 40 state-of-the-art water rides and attractions. Experience a rush aboard Colossal Curl™, the park’s first family thrill ride and the first of its kind in North America. Unwind and relax on a journey down the park’s lazy river or catch a wave at the Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool. Little ones can have a “splashtastic” good time in one of the park’s KIDsiderate® play areas designed just for them. Water Country USA also offers swim lessons and classes to help guests stay safe and feel confident in the water. With something for everyone, Water Country USA is hot destination for a cool summer.

Reviewed By bwat - Raleigh, United States

This was our first visit to Water Country USA and we had a blast! They do a great job of keeping the park clean and beautiful. They also did a great job of having a variety of activities in a spot for all ages and thrill levels. If you have a variety of ages in your group, there is just about something for everyone within close proximity. We were only there from about noon until 7 PM and did not get to do everything. We will definitely be back!

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