Appalachian National Scenic Trail
This 2,180-mile public path stretches from Georgia to Maine, but Virginia boasts more ground than any other state. In fact, nearly a quarter of the trail’s length — 555 miles — lies in the commonwealth. Day hikers should look to stretches in Shenandoah National Park, where climbs rarely exceed 1,000 feet.
The Ghost Fleet of Kiptopeke
Nine partially sunken ships made of concrete form an offshore breakwater at Kiptopeke State Park. Steel remained in short supply after WWII, so a shipyard in Tampa, Florida, produced 24 of these hauntingly beautiful beasts. The fishing pier offers good views, but kayak out for a close-up peek at the birds and dolphins attracted to the intentional wrecks.
Luray Caverns
Set within Shenandoah National Park, the largest cave system in the eastern United States includes cathedral-sized rooms with skyscraper-high ceilings. Expect vast columns, translucent drapes of calcite, and gin-clear pools mirroring fantastical stone formations at this National Natural Landmark. The space even rocks out with the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world’s largest musical instrument. The keyboard vibrates stalactites across three acres of caves.