A Perfect Two-Day Fall Trip to Blue Ridge Area: Natural Bridge, VA
Nestled amidst the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Natural Bridge, VA, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor adventures. As the leaves begin to transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, this charming destination becomes even more enchanting. Join us as we explore the wonders of Natural Bridge during the peak of fall foliage, where breathtaking landscapes, cozy accommodations, and unforgettable experiences await.
Day 1: Visit the Caverns at Natural Bridge
The Caverns at Natural Bridge are a fascinating underground destination located near the Natural Bridge in Virginia. Here's a quick overview of what they offer:
What to Expect:
Guided Tours: Lasting about 45 minutes, these tours take you through a series of underground rooms and passages formed over millions of years. The temperature remains a cool 54°F year-round, making it a comfortable experience regardless of the weather outside.
What You Can See:
Rock Formations: The caverns feature impressive stalactites (hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (rising from the floor), along with flowstone and other mineral deposits that have formed intricate patterns and shapes over time.
Mirror Lake: A beautiful underground reflecting pool that adds a mystical touch to the tour.
Colossal Dome Room: A large chamber with stunning natural architecture, showcasing the power of water erosion over centuries.
What You Can Do:
Learn About Geology: The tour guides provide insights into the geological history of the area, explaining how the caverns were formed and pointing out key formations.
Photography: While it’s a dimly lit environment, you’ll still find plenty of opportunities to capture photos of the breathtaking natural formations.
The caverns are a great activity for visitors of all ages, offering both natural beauty and educational value. They are a must-see on any trip to the Natural Bridge area.
Hours of operation:
Weekday: 10 AM - 4 PM
Weekend: 9 AM - 5 PM
ACT3 Tip: Visit the caverns in morning for fewer crowds and maximize daylight for outdoor activities.
Places to Eat
To be honest there are many fancy eateries around the area. There are a couple "hole-in-the-wall" places that are worth popping into and grabbing a bite to eat. If you stay at an Airbnb, be sure to bring your own lunch and dinner. If you're looking for more of a variety, Lexington, VA, a university town, is only 20 minutes north from Natural Bridge that offers more restaurant options.
Colonial Express Cafe - Stop here for a casual lunch. Try their sandwiches and a local craft beer, and save room for some ice cream. Its located conveniently near the caverns and other local attractions, this cafe offers a relaxed dining experience.
Natural Bridge General Store & Natty B Cafe - A family-owned cafe, deli and general store is a one-stop shop for your meals and any odd-end items you may have forgotten to bring on your trip.
Breakfast Pink Cadillac Diner - Serves American comfort food with a nostalgic vibe.
After lunch:
Head over to the Natural Bridge State Park. Start with the Cedar Creek Trail (1.6 miles round trip), which includes of course as the highlight of this trail is walking under the iconic Natural Bridge. Along the way, you should also explore the Monacan Indian Village, Saltpeter Cave, and end at Lace Falls, a 30-foot waterfall. This trail is perfect for a peaceful, scenic walk with a mix of nature and history.
Note:
Natural Bridge State Park Hours: Open 8:00 AM to dusk.
Entry Fee: $9 for adults, $6 for children 6-12, free for children under 5.
Where to Stay
Natural Bridge Hotel is a comfortable, convenient base with beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I love that there is a short walk from the hotel entrance over to the state park.
Check out booking information here with Booking.com
Day 2
Local Wineries
With only 10 minutes from the hotel there are two wineries to visit on your 2nd day in the Natural Bridge area.
Ramulose Ridge Vineyard is only 10 minutes from the state park, known for their sweet wines, sangria, and beautiful scenery.
Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery is a farm-based craft brewery that offers beers, wines, and great mountain views.
Afternoon walk
Explore the Natural Bridge State Park - Skyline Trail, a1.4 miles round trip easy walk with elevated views of the park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The moderate uphill trail rewards you with stunning vistas, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Relax or Explore Nearby Attractions:
Optional Side Trip: If you feel like exploring more, visit the nearby Natural Bridge Zoo or Dinosaur Kingdom II for a quirky experience.
Scenic Drive: Alternatively, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to enjoy the fall foliage and mountain views.
Whether you're seeking a leisurely escape, an adventure-filled getaway, or a combination of both, Natural Bridge, VA offers something for everyone. By following this itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to experience the best of what this charming destination has to offer during the breathtaking fall season. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Natural Bridge. We invite you to embark on your own unforgettable journey through this picturesque corner of Virginia.
Summary of Key Information
Caverns at Natural Bridge: Ideal to visit mid-morning on Day 1, with tours lasting 45 minutes.
Natural Bridge State Park: Open from 8:00 AM to dusk, with trails like Cedar Creek and Skyline offering beautiful scenery and fall foliage.
Entry Fee: $9 for adults, $6 for children (6-12), and free for kids under 5.
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