Life Outside Fall 2017 - 14

10
Scenic
SPOTS
Great

RHODODENDRON GAP
The Grayson Highlands' elevation combines
with flora for a signature spot.

The Virginia mountains are flush
with beautiful viewpoints. Here
are 10 that are well worth the
good fall hike to get to them.
BY ERIC J. WALLACE
PHOTOS BY PAT & CHUCK BLACKLEY

MORE AND MORE PEOPLE from all across the globe are

discovering Virginia mountains as a place to bask in the
majestic sights and a landscape unlike any other in the
world. And we shouldn't take them for granted; whether
you're a seasoned Blue Ridge explorer, or a newbie aching
for the glory of a nearby mountain vista, the following
destinations offer some of the most potent views the state
has to offer. Let's start at the northern end of the mountains
and work our way south.
Sky Meadows, Delaplane
What to Expect: Encompassing 1,864 acres, Sky
Meadows State Park offers 24 miles of hiking trails
featuring scenic views overlooking woodlands and
rolling pastures, as well as a working, colonial through
post-Civil War era farm. Lower trails wind through rolling
fields and forests with numerous brook-crossings, while the
upper trails above Bleak House lead to spectacular views of
the Piedmont, with the Appalachian Trail passing through
the northwestern portion of the park.
The Hike: Providing panoramic views of the Piedmont
Valley, the short (.61 miles) but moderately difficult hike to
the upper and lower Piedmont Overlooks delivers visitors
to the crown jewel of the SMSP's vistas. From the visitor
center, follow the James Ball trail for a brief stint before
turning right onto the Piedmont Overlook trail.

14

Fall 2017 \\ LifeOutside Magazine

PAT & CHUCK BLACKLEY

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Life Outside Fall 2017

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Life Outside Fall 2017

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https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/leisure/Life_Outside_Spring_2019
https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/leisure/Life_Outside_Fall_2018
https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/leisure/Life_Outside_Summer_2018
https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/leisure/Life_Outside_Spring_2018
https://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/leisure/Life_Outside_Fall_2017
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