In our last entry we mentioned the Shenandoah National Park area of Virginia’s Appalachian Trail, so today we’ll take particular notice at the northern end. It’s still prime weather to get out and explore even the upper reaches of the trail, and it might be great through November.
One of the most popular access points in to the trail is through Sky Meadows State Park in beautiful Fauquier County. The trail covers an ample 54 miles and features the G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area, one of the main popular areas for viewing wildlife.
G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area
Fishing
Hunting
Set from the Eastern slope on the Blue Ridge Mountains, this particular area of this trail is situated near Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania and gives entry to populated areas, and also easily reaches Virginia’s most popular wildlife areas. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing and hunting, as well as birding, viewing Virginia’s wide array of gorgeous wildflowers and hiking on the trail.
Things to do and observe will depend on what you like. For history buffs, The Railway Workers Museum features Restored Railcars (Caboose, REA Baggage, Box Car) and restored and operating Maintenance of Way (MOW) equipment. Weather, crew, and Commercial Rail Operations permitting short rides could possibly be offered by 9:30 to 11:30 on the MOW train. It’s a fantastic destination to introduce the children towards the history of the United States as viewed from the lens of our own historic railways.
And then for another look at history and Located 38 miles south of Mount Vernon on the banks of the Rappahannock River opposite Fredericksburg, is Ferry Farm, George Washington's boyhood home. Virginia is rich with colonial history. What better way to explore out nation’s heritage than doing it by planned hikes around our beautiful commonwealth?
And of course, the trail features the sublime views offered throughout Virginia’s awe-inspiring stretches within the Appalachian Trail.
